Jesus spoke about peace in powerful and transformative ways, offering a kind of peace that goes far beyond temporary calm or worldly comfort. From greeting His disciples with “Peace be with you” after His resurrection to assuring them in John 14:27 that His peace is unlike anything the world gives, Jesus emphasized that real peace comes from His presence and victory over sin and death. This peace calms fears, sustains us through hardship, and brings restoration to both our hearts and our relationships.
Beyond offering personal peace, Jesus also called His followers to become agents of peace. In the Beatitudes, He blessed the peacemakers, highlighting their role as children of God. Whether commanding His disciples to “be at peace with one another” or sending people away with the comforting words, “go in peace,” Jesus taught that peace should flow from our relationship with Him into our interactions with others. Keep reading to dive deeper into these teachings and discover how you can live out the peace of Christ in your daily life.
When it comes to peace, Jesus had a lot to say. Throughout the Gospels, He spoke about peace in various contexts, giving us insights into how to attain it and what it truly means. Let’s explore where Jesus mentioned peace and what He meant by it.
1. Peace Be With You
One of the most well-known phrases Jesus used was “Peace be with you.” After His resurrection, He appeared to His disciples and greeted them with these words. In John 20:19, it’s recorded:
“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’”
This greeting was not just a casual salutation. It was a profound declaration of the peace He brought through His resurrection. Jesus was offering them calm in the midst of their fear and confusion, assuring them of His presence and victory over death.
2. My Peace I Give to You
In John 14:27, Jesus promises His followers a unique kind of peace:
“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.”
Here, Jesus distinguishes His peace from the peace the world offers. Worldly peace often depends on circumstances—when things are going well, we feel at peace. Jesus’ peace, however, is different. It’s a deep, abiding sense of well-being that remains even in difficult times because it’s rooted in His presence and promises.
3. Blessed Are the Peacemakers
In the Beatitudes, Jesus highlights the value of peace in the life of a believer. Matthew 5:9 says:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Peacemakers actively seek to resolve conflicts and promote harmony. They reflect God’s character and show that they belong to His family. By advocating for peace, they help spread the peace Jesus brings.
4. I Have Overcome the World
Jesus acknowledged that His followers would face trouble but reassured them of His peace. In John 16:33, He says:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
This verse is a reminder that while we will encounter difficulties, we can have peace knowing that Jesus has overcome the world. His victory gives us hope and confidence, even in the midst of trials.
5. Peace on Earth
At Jesus’ birth, the angels proclaimed peace to the shepherds. Luke 2:14 records the angels’ song:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
This announcement highlighted that Jesus’ arrival was bringing a new kind of peace to the earth—a peace that comes from a restored relationship with God.
6. Be At Peace With One Another
Jesus emphasized the importance of maintaining peace with others. In Mark 9:50, He instructed His disciples:
“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”
Just as salt preserves and enhances food, Jesus’ followers are called to be a positive influence in the world. Part of this involves living at peace with others, fostering unity and reconciliation.
7. Go in Peace
Throughout His ministry, Jesus often told those He healed or forgave to go in peace. For instance, in Luke 7:50, He says to the woman who anointed His feet:
“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
These words were a declaration of restoration and wholeness. Jesus was not just addressing their physical or immediate needs but was also granting them inner peace and a restored relationship with God.
Practical Application of Jesus’ Teachings on Peace
Understanding where and how Jesus spoke about peace can transform our lives. Here are a few practical ways to apply His teachings:
1. Seek Jesus’ Presence
Remember that Jesus offers a peace that surpasses understanding. Spend time in prayer and reading the Bible to stay connected to Him. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
2. Be a Peacemaker
Actively work to resolve conflicts and build harmony in your relationships. Reflect God’s love and patience in your interactions with others.
3. Trust in Jesus’ Victory
In times of trouble, remember that Jesus has overcome the world. Hold onto His promise of peace, knowing that He is in control and His purposes will prevail.
4. Live in Peace with Others
Strive to maintain peaceful relationships with those around you. Forgive quickly, love deeply, and let go of grudges. Romans 12:18 advises:
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on peace are comprehensive and deeply impactful. From His resurrection greetings to His promises and instructions, Jesus offers a peace that is profound and life-changing. By embracing His words and applying them in our daily lives, we can experience the true peace that only He can give.
FAQs about Jesus and Peace
1. Where in the Bible does Jesus say “Peace be with you”?
Jesus says “Peace be with you” in John 20:19, when He appears to His disciples after His resurrection.
2. What kind of peace does Jesus offer?
Jesus offers a unique peace that is different from what the world gives. In John 14:27, He says, “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.” This peace is deep, abiding, and not dependent on external circumstances.
3. What does “Blessed are the peacemakers” mean?
In Matthew 5:9, Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This means that those who actively seek to create peace and resolve conflicts reflect God’s character and are recognized as His children.
4. How can I experience the peace Jesus offers?
You can experience Jesus’ peace by staying connected to Him through prayer, reading the Bible, and trusting in His promises. Philippians 4:6-7 advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
5. What does Jesus mean when He says, “I have overcome the world”?
In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This means that despite the challenges and difficulties we face, we can have peace knowing that Jesus has already secured victory over sin and death.
6. Why did the angels proclaim peace at Jesus’ birth?
In Luke 2:14, the angels announce, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” This proclamation signifies that Jesus’ birth brought a new era of peace through the restoration of humanity’s relationship with God.
7. What should I do to be a peacemaker?
To be a peacemaker, actively work to resolve conflicts, promote harmony, and build positive relationships. Show love, patience, and forgiveness in your interactions with others, reflecting God’s peace in your life.
8. How can I live in peace with others?
Romans 12:18 advises, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This means striving to maintain peaceful relationships by forgiving quickly, letting go of grudges, and showing love and understanding towards others.
9. What does “Go in peace” mean when Jesus says it?
When Jesus says “Go in peace,” as in Luke 7:50, He is declaring restoration and wholeness. It signifies that the person has been healed, forgiven, and can now live in the peace that comes from a restored relationship with God.
10. How can I trust in Jesus’ victory during difficult times?
During difficult times, remember Jesus’ words in John 16:33 and hold onto His promise of peace. Trust that He has overcome the world, and His victory ensures that His purposes will prevail, giving you hope and confidence even in trials.
