This is the Word of God- “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
Introduction:
Notice how Jesus moves from purity of heart to peacemaking. Remember purity of heart is true sincerity. So, it is only natural that out of a sincere heart we deal honestly and openly with others which is essential to the work of reconciliation… I am going to call your attention to many Scriptures this morning in the hopes that the Spirit of God may use His Word in your hearts.
Point 1: Peace Through Christ
A. God made peace through the cross of Christ – reconciliation, restoration, justification
B. Peacemaking is a Divine Work –
a. SEE Col 1:19-21 “For it pleased the Father that in [the Son] all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled...”
b. SEE Eph 2:13-15 Of the division between Jews and Gentiles the Scripture says, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation…”
C. The cost of peace is extraordinarily high.
“True peace and true forgiveness are costly treasures.”
Point 2: Peacemakers
A. Christians are to seek wholeness and harmony in all aspects of life –
a. SEE 1 Cor 7:15 “…God has called us to peace.”
b. SEE Ps 34:12-14 “Who is the man who desires life, And loves many days, that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.”
c. SEE Rom 12:17-18 “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
d. SEE Rom 14:19 “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.”
B. We need to make peace in a variety of situations:
a. World/Community – lessening tensions, seeking solutions, ensuring effective communication
b. Church – unity must be defended
c. Families – reconcile marriages, settle sibling rivalry, mend parent-children bonds
d. Individuals – reconcile people to God
C. Evangelizers
a. Evangelism is peacemaking and it involves proclamation.
b. But, it is more than only proclamation. We must be willing to get in the mess.
Point 3: Sons of God
A. This word “sons” was intentionally chosen as opposed to children. In ancient times, sons did what their fathers did. They learned of their fathers and imitated them. They studied under them in order to take over the family business. SEE Rom 8:14 “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”
B. We are sons/daughters of God when we promote that peace we’ve been talking about because we do what our Father has done and is in the business of doing – loving, forgiving, serving, making peace!
C. As follows, those who give no thought to making peace are offspring of the Devil.
Conclusion:
Matthew 10:34-39 reminds us that not every attempt at peace is successful.
Yet, we must pursue peace. God has done it at all costs in the person of Jesus, our Lord. Peace is a staple of Christianity. It is a mark of distinction. Sure, a few other “religions” like to talk about “inner” peace, but how many of the, seek it for others? How many non-Christians seek to restore the relationship between people and their loving Creator?
Is there someone that you need to seek peace for today?
Is there someone that you need to seek peace with today?
Do you need to seek peace with God today?