Peacemaking
Peacemaking6
Make Peace
By John Wesley0PSA 34:14PRO 15:1ISA 9:6MAT 5:9MAT 26:52ROM 12:18EPH 4:3COL 3:15JAS 3:181PE 3:11John Wesley emphasizes the call to make peace in a world rife with violence, referencing Jesus' command to put away the sword. He highlights the prevalence of violence in contemporary society, from wars to local acts of aggression, and stresses that Christians must not resort to violence in any form. Instead, they are called to be peacemakers, a role that requires courage and commitment to God's principles. Wesley challenges listeners to reflect on their own responses to conflict and to actively pursue peace in their communities. He concludes with a prayer for guidance in choosing the path of peace.
Sermon on the Mount, 3
By John Wesley0MAT 5:8John Wesley emphasizes the profound teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly the blessings associated with purity of heart, peacemaking, and enduring persecution for righteousness' sake. He explains that true love for our neighbor must stem from a genuine love for God, and that the pure in heart will experience a deep connection with God. Wesley warns against the false teachings that focus solely on outward actions without addressing the heart's condition, urging believers to strive for inner holiness. He concludes by encouraging Christians to rejoice in persecution, as it signifies their alignment with Christ and the promise of eternal rewards.
Mercy, Purity, Peacemaking, & Persecution (Mt. 5:7-12)
By Mike Bickle2058:08MAT 5:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the final four beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on mercy, purity, peacemaking, and the reality of persecution. He explains that true mercy involves a commitment to righteousness and the importance of showing tenderness to those who mistreat us. Bickle highlights that purity of heart is essential for experiencing God more deeply, while peacemaking requires both avoiding strife and actively restoring relationships. He concludes by addressing the inevitability of persecution for those who stand for righteousness, encouraging believers to respond with joy and humility, knowing that their reward is great in heaven.
The Peacemaker: Resolving Conflict
By Shane Idleman336:09MAT 5:9ROM 12:18EPH 4:31Shane Idleman emphasizes the role of a peacemaker in resolving conflicts, highlighting that while truth may bring division, our attitudes should reflect grace and love. He stresses the importance of actively pursuing peace in our homes and workplaces, as conflict is a natural part of life. Idleman encourages individuals to take the initiative in peacemaking, reminding us that forgiveness and grace are essential in overcoming bitterness and anger. He also points out that true peace requires effort and cannot be achieved passively. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to fight for peace and embody the character of Christ in our interactions.
Wisdom on Peacemaking & Prosperity
By Shane Idleman1557:46GEN 13:8Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of peacemaking and the true source of prosperity, drawing lessons from Genesis 13 and 14. He urges believers to seek God earnestly, recognizing that true hope lies not in political solutions or material wealth, but in a revived church that seeks God's presence. Idleman highlights Abram's humility and willingness to put others first as key traits of a peacemaker, contrasting this with the dangers of pride and strife. He also discusses the balance of biblical prosperity, warning against both the prosperity gospel and the notion that poverty equates to spirituality, ultimately stressing that true wealth is found in a relationship with Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a deeper commitment to God.
The Beatitudes the Seventh Beatitude
By A.W. Pink0JOB 22:21MAT 5:9MAT 13:43ROM 10:152CO 5:20EPH 1:10EPH 6:15COL 1:19HEB 13:201PE 1:14A.W. Pink expounds on the seventh Beatitude, 'Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God,' emphasizing that true peacemaking goes beyond mere peacekeeping or peace-loving. He highlights that peacemakers are those who actively seek to reconcile others to God, reflecting the character of Christ and fulfilling their role as ambassadors of peace. Pink contrasts the Old Covenant's call to war with the New Covenant's mission of reconciliation, asserting that genuine Christians must have a heart for the salvation of others. He concludes that peacemakers, despite facing persecution, are recognized by God as His children and will ultimately be honored in His Kingdom.