Understanding Peacemaking from Scripture

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I’ve been reflecting on what the Bible actually says about peacemaking, and I wanted to share a few key passages that have helped me see it more clearly. A lot of people think being a Christian means being a peace-KEEPER. The Bible seems to affirm something different: PeaceMAKING.

Jesus begins the Beatitudes with: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

PeaceMAKING is an active part of reflecting God’s character. God Himself is a peace-maker.

Psalm 34:14 says, “Seek peace and pursue it”.

Seek peace...that means it's not something that just happens passively — we have to intentionally go after it.

Romans 12:18 says, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

We can’t control how others respond, but we are responsible for our own efforts toward peace.

Ephesians 4:1-3, says be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Peace is the glue that holds relationships together only when the Spirit is involved. We are called to unity in the Spirit, not unity in another spirit.

James 3:18 adds that “a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”

This is interesting because it says a harvest of righteousness follows peace sown by those who MAKE peace. Peacemaking brings greater righteousness in our lives.

Once again, it's emphasizing peace is to be MADE, not necessarily KEPT.

At the center of all this is Christ Himself.

Colossians 1:19-20 tells us that through the blood of His cross, Jesus made peace and reconciled all things to God. Ephesians 2:14 says, “He himself is our peace,” who broke down the dividing walls of hostility.

Jesus made peace with us between us and Himself through his death and resurrection. If God was about peace-keeping, He would not have dealt with sin. Because He's about peace-making, he MADE peace through a major sacrifice of love. Peace-making is active. Peace-keeping is passive.

I’d love to hear your thoughts:

Which of these passages stands out to you most when you think about peacemaking?

Or has there been a time when pursuing peace in a difficult situation showed you more of God’s character?

What does it mean to peace-making in the world, and our relationships, versus peacekeeping?

Feel free to share below.

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