PEACE: Christ Conquering Chaos
Living with Jesus in the Eye of the Storm
Isaiah 9:6–7 (NIV84)
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Luke 2:14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
John 14:27 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.
Luke 12:51 Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.
Luke 22:36 He said to them, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.
Luke 22:49 When Jesus’ followers saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?”
John 18:36 Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”
So, if Jesus is the prophesied Prince of Peace who promised peace, then why doesn’t there seem to be much peace. And what’s that talk about swords? And why do so many not feel peaceful on His birthday? Are we listening to what He said, or just defining “peace” our way?