Peace. It is one of the buzz words employed by Paul but it is steeped in theological merit. In the postmodern world, peace has become a generic term for good relations or the goal of disparate international alliances. In the spiritual realm, though, peace holds a much more significant definition, aptly describing how, through the blood of Christ, we can be reconciled to God (Rom. 5:1-2).
In this, the greatest sense, peace is purely relational, a designation reserved for how Christ Jesus has affected the relationship between man and God. The ultimate referent for peace is what Jesus has done, breaking down the wall of hostility, the Law, that had separated man and God as well as Jew and Gentile in order to bring all who are faithful to His self (Eph. 2:14-15).
Peace, in its truest sense, refers then to how Christ Jesus has reconciled us to God through His blood (Col. 1:21-22). Additionally, the peace we receive from God arises out our justified status (Rom. 5:1-2). This cannot be emphasized enough: peace is a gift from the Lord that stems from the applied work of Jesus.
Additionally, peace is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22), that guards are hearts and minds as its ruler that leads us in brotherly love (Phil. 4:7; Col. 3:15). As we receive the gift of peace, which is made sure by the blood of Christ Jesus, we are to pass it on. In essence, peace is to be our very way of life, living peacefully in peace. Peace is thus not merely a word, but it reflects the restored relationship between man and God through the blood of Christ. Therefore, we should pursue peace as to pursue Christ.
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