“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God”

I. Foundational Truths of Peacemaking

A. God is the author of peace and reconciliation

“For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in Jesus, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.”

—Colossians 1:19-20

Peace with God leads to peace within which leads to peace in relationships.

B. Every Christian is called to be a peacemaker

“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”

— Hebrews 12:14

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

— Romans 12:18

Be a peaceful person – Preserve peace; be active to prevent strife and hostility.

Be a reconciler – Bring peace where there is strife

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away; behold the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

—II Corinthians 5:17-18

II. What “peacemaking” is NOT:

A. Peacemaking is not appeasement

B. Peacemaking is not “peace at any price”

“Peace if possible, but the truth at any rate.”

— Martin Luther