What is the peace of God?

The concept of the "peace of God" is a profound and multifaceted theme that runs throughout the Scriptures, offering believers a sense of divine tranquility that transcends human understanding. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict or turmoil but a deep, abiding sense of well-being and wholeness that comes from a right relationship with God. To fully grasp the peace of God, it is essential to explore its biblical foundations, its manifestation in the life of a believer, and its ultimate fulfillment in the eschatological hope of Christians.

The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," and the Greek word "eirene" both convey a sense of completeness, soundness, and well-being. Shalom, in particular, is a rich term that encompasses not only peace but also prosperity, health, and harmony. It is a state of being that reflects God's original design for creation, where everything is in perfect harmony with His will. This concept is first introduced in the creation narrative, where God creates a world that is "very good" (Genesis 1:31). However, the fall of humanity brought sin and brokenness into the world, disrupting this divine peace.

Throughout the Old Testament, the peace of God is often associated with His covenant relationship with His people. For instance, in Numbers 6:24-26, the Aaronic blessing invokes God's peace upon the Israelites: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Here, peace is seen as a gift from God, a manifestation of His favor and presence among His people. Similarly, the prophets frequently speak of a future time when God will restore peace to His people and to the entire creation. Isaiah 9:6-7, for example, prophesies the coming of the Messiah, who will be called the "Prince of Peace" and whose reign will bring about endless peace and justice.

In the New Testament, the peace of God is most fully revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself speaks of this peace in John 14:27, saying, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." The peace that Jesus offers is distinct from the fleeting and often superficial peace that the world offers. It is a deep, abiding peace that comes from being reconciled with God through faith in Christ. As Paul writes in Romans 5:1, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

This peace is both a present reality and a future hope for believers. In the present, it is experienced through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who produces the fruit of peace in the lives of believers (Galatians 5:22-23). It is a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, as Paul describes in Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the assurance of God's love, sovereignty, and faithfulness.

Moreover, the peace of God has a communal dimension. It is not only a personal experience but also a reality that shapes the life of the Christian community. Believers are called to live in peace with one another and to be peacemakers in the world. Ephesians 4:3 exhorts believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Similarly, Jesus' Sermon on the Mount includes the beatitude, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). The peace of God, therefore, involves actively pursuing reconciliation and harmony in our relationships and in the broader society.

The ultimate fulfillment of the peace of God is eschatological, pointing to the future consummation of God's kingdom. The book of Revelation depicts a vision of a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:1-4). This is the ultimate shalom, where all creation is restored to its intended harmony and peace. Until that time, believers live in the tension of the "already" and the "not yet," experiencing the peace of God in part but longing for its complete fulfillment.

Christian literature throughout the ages has also reflected on the peace of God. For example, Saint Augustine, in his seminal work "The City of God," contrasts the earthly city, characterized by strife and discord, with the heavenly city, where perfect peace reigns. Augustine writes, "Peace in the city of God is the perfectly ordered and harmonious enjoyment of God, and of one another in God." Similarly, Thomas à Kempis, in "The Imitation of Christ," emphasizes the importance of inner peace and trust in God's providence, encouraging believers to seek peace within themselves through a life of devotion and humility.

In practical terms, experiencing the peace of God involves cultivating a deep and abiding relationship with Him through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and participation in the life of the Christian community. It requires trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of trials and uncertainties. It also involves actively pursuing peace in our relationships and in the world, embodying the reconciling love of Christ.

In conclusion, the peace of God is a profound and encompassing reality that is rooted in God's character and His redemptive work in Christ. It is a peace that transcends human understanding, offering believers a sense of wholeness and well-being that is grounded in their relationship with God. This peace is both a present experience and a future hope, shaping the lives of believers and calling them to be agents of reconciliation in the world. As we seek to live in the peace of God, we are reminded of Jesus' words in John 16:33: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."