Introduction

Jesus is the “Prince of Peace”

His followers are told to pursue peace

The Fruit of the Spirit includes peace

Yet Jesus said he had not come to bring peace

And He drove the moneychangers out of the Temple

WHAT SHOULD A CHRISTIAN BELIEVE ABOUT PEACE?

1A. Peace-Loving – The Christian’s Plan

1B. If possible – live at peace with everyone

Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14

2B. Trust God to bring justice

Romans 12:19-21; John 18:10-11, 36

Do not take revenge - “I will repay,” says the Lord

Put your sword away

My kingdom is not of this world

If it were, my servants would fight

2A. Peace-Making – The Christian’s Pursuit

1B. “Turning the other cheek” – Personal response to insult and injury Matthew 5:38-42

2B. Love for all – including one’s enemies

Matthew 5:43-44

3B. Making peace – Proactive effort of reconciliation with God and man Matthew 5:9; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20

1 C. Blessed are the peacemakers – Matthew 5:9

2C. Ambassadors for Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:18-20

Philippians 3:20-21 – Citizenship is in heaven

Luke 20:22-25 – Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s

Major implications for missions (nationalism)

3A. Peace-Keeping – The Christian Perspective

1B. Love and Discipline – The Family/ Church Family

Hebrews 12:5-11

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (v. 11)

2B. Keeping the law/ Defending the Innocent – Government

1C. God-given responsibility to govern

Psalm 75:6-7; Romans 13:1-6; Luke 3:14

Promotion is from God

Authorities that exist are established by God – (Nero!)

Is there such a thing as a “Just War”?

What if the government won’t enforce its own laws? (U.N.)

What if the government fails to protect its people?

(The President)

2C. Limit on Government’s power – When its demands are contrary to the revealed will of God

Acts 4:18-21

Obey God or man?

Application

· Pray for peace

· Pray for wisdom for yourself, the President and others

· Model peace in your personal life – Determine God’s will for you - Trust the Lord whatever happens