Peace (1515)(eirene from verb eiro = to join or bind together that which has been separated) literally pictures the binding or joining together again of that which had been separated or divided and thus setting at one again, a meaning convey by the common expression of one “having it all together”. It follows that peace is the opposite of division or dissension. Peace as a state of concord and harmony is the opposite of war. Peace was used as a greeting or farewell corresponding to the Hebrew word shalom - "peace to you".
Eirene can convey the sense of an inner rest, well being and harmony. The ultimate peace is the state of reconciliation with God, effected by placing one's faith in the gospel. In eschatology, peace is prophesied to be an essential characteristic of the Messianic kingdom (Acts 10:36).
Peace is a condition of freedom from disturbance, whether outwardly, as of a nation from war or enemies or inwardly, as in the current context, within the soul. Peace implies health, well-being, and prosperity.
William Barclay has the following notes on eirene in his comments on several Bible books (there is some repetition) -
(1) Note on Galatians 5 - "Peace in contemporary colloquial Greek...had two interesting usages. It was used of the serenity which a county enjoyed under the just and beneficent government of a good emperor; and it was used of the good order of a town or village. Villages had an official who was called the superintendent of the village’s eirene, the keeper of the public peace. Usually in the New Testament eirene stands for the Hebrew Shalom and means not just freedom from trouble but everything that makes for a man’s highest good. It is interesting to note that Chara (Grace) and Eirene (Peace ~ "Irene") both became very common Christian names in the Church." (Galatians 5 )
(2) Note on Galatians 1 - Peace is "everything which will make his mind pure, his will resolute and his heart glad. It is that sense of the love and care of God, which, even if his body is tortured, can keep a man's heart serene." (Galatians 1)
(3) Note on Ephesians 1 - "In the Bible peace is never a purely negative word; it never describes simply the absence of trouble. Shalom means everything which makes for a man's highest good. Christian peace is something quite independent of outward circumstances. A man might live in ease and luxury and on the fat of the land, he might have the finest of houses and the biggest of bank accounts, and yet not have peace; on the other hand, a man might be starving in prison, or dying at the stake, or living a life from which all comfort had fled, and be at perfect peace. The explanation is that there is only one source of peace in all the world, and that is doing the will of God. When we are doing something which we know we ought not to do or are evading something that we know we ought to do, there is always a haunting dispeace at the back of our minds; but if we are doing something very difficult, even something we do not want to do, so long as we know that it is the right thing there is a certain contentment in our hearts. "In his will is our peace." (Ephesians 1)
(4) Note in Matthew 5 - "In Hebrew peace is never only a negative state; it never means only the absence of trouble; in Hebrew peace always means everything which makes for a man's highest good. In the east when one man says to another, Salaam--which is the same word--he does not mean that he wishes for the other man only the absence of evil things; he wishes for him tile presence of all good things. In the Bible peace means not only freedom from all trouble; it means enjoyment of all good." (Matthew 5)
(5) Note on grace and peace in Philippians 1:2 - "When Paul put together these two great words, grace and peace, (charis and eirene), he was doing something very wonderful. He was taking the normal greeting phrases of two great nations and molding them into one. Charis is the greeting with which Greek letters always began and eirene the greeting with which Jews met each other. Each of these words had its own flavor and each was deepened by the new meaning which Christianity poured into it. Charis is a lovely word; the basic ideas in it are joy and pleasure, brightness and beauty; it is, in fact, connected with the English word charm. But with Jesus Christ there comes a new beauty to add to the beauty that was there. And that beauty is born of a new relationship to God. With Christ life becomes lovely because man is no longer the victim of God's law but the child of his love. Eirene is a comprehensive word. We translate it peace; but it never means a negative peace, never simply the absence of trouble. It means total well-being, everything that makes for a man's highest good. It may well be connected with the Greek word eirein, which means to join, to weave together. And this peace has always got to do with personal relationships, a man's relationship to himself, to his fellow-men, and to God. It is always the peace that is born of reconciliation. So, when Paul prays for grace and peace on his people he is praying that they should have the joy of knowing God as Father and the peace of being reconciled to God, to men, and to themselves--and that grace and peace can come only through Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1)
(6) Note on "wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable" in James 3:17 - "The truewisdom is eirenikos (1516). We have translated this peaceable but it has a very special meaning. Eirene means peace, and when it is used of men its basic meaning is right relationships between man and man, and between man and God The true wisdom produces right relationships. There is a kind of clever and arrogant wisdom which separates man from man, and which makes a man look with superior contempt on his fellows. There is a kind of cruel wisdom which takes a delight in hurting others with clever, but cutting, words. There is a kind of depraved wisdom which seduces men away from their loyalty to God. But the true wisdom at all times brings men closer to one another and to God. (James 3)
Eirene - 92x in 85v - All uses are translated "peace" except one - "undisturbed". See all uses below.
Eirene - Some 192x in the non-apocryphal Septuagint (LXX) - See all uses below.
Here is the first use of eirene in the LXX -
Genesis 15:15 "And as for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried at a good old age.
Eirene is the root the English "serene" (= clear and free of storms or unpleasant change, stressing an unclouded and lofty tranquility!) and "serenity".
At Lying Down
Charles Wesley
Inured to poverty and pain,
A suffering life my Master led;
The Son of God, the Son of Man,
He had not where to lay His head.
But, lo! a place He hath prepared
For me, whom watchful angels keep;
Nay, He Himself becomes my Guard,
He smooths my bed, and gives me sleep.
Jesus protects; my fears, be gone!
What can the Rock of Ages move?
Safe in Thy arms I lay me down,
Thy everlasting arms of love!
While Thou art intimately nigh,
Who, who shall violate my rest?
Sin, earth, and hell I now defy;
I lean upon my Saviour’s breast.
I rest beneath the Almighty’s shade;
My griefs expire, my troubles cease;
Thou, Lord, on whom my soul is stay’d,
Wilt keep me still in perfect peace.
Me for Thine own Thou lov’st to take,
In time and in eternity;
Thou never, never wilt forsake
A helpless worm that trusts in Thee.
Wherefore in confidence I close
My eyes, for Thine are open still;
My spirit, lull’d in calm repose,
Waits for the counsels of Thy will.
After Thy likeness let me rise,
If here Thou will’st my longer stay;
Or close in mortal sleep my eyes,
To open them in endless day.
Still let me run, or end my race;
I cannot choose, I all resign;
Contract or lengthen out my days;
Come life, come death; for Christ is mine.
The picture of eirene is reflected in our modern expression "having it all together." Everything is in place and as it ought to be. When things are disjointed, there is lack of harmony and well being. When they are joined together, there is both. Thus Hamlet cried,
“The times are out of joint. O, cursed spite that I was ever born to set them right.”
John Eadie explains that...
Peace, is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew Shalom—a term of familiar and beautiful significance. It includes every blessing—being and well-being. It was the formula of ordinary courtesy at meeting and parting. “Peace I leave with you,” said our Lord; but the term was no symbol of cold and formal politeness—“not as the world giveth, give I unto you.” (John 14:27). The word in this connection denotes that form of spiritual blessing which keeps the heart in a state of happy repose. It is therefore but another phase, or rather it is the result, of the previous charis...
A conscious possession of the divine favour (grace)
can alone create and sustain mental tranquility.To use an impressive figure of Scripture, the unsanctified heart resembles “the troubled sea,” (Is 57:20KJV) in constant uproar and agitation—dark, muddy, and tempestuous; but the storm subsides, for a voice of power has cried, “Peace, be still,” and there is “a great calm” (Mk 4:39KJV, cp Mt 8:26KJV) -- the lowering clouds are dispelled, and the azure sky smiles on its own reflection in the bosom of the quiet and glassy deep. The favour of God and the felt enjoyment of it, the apostle (Ed: in the present context Peter) wishes to the (recipients of this letter). ( Ephesians Commentary)
Peace is the opposite of war or disturbance (), a term which accurate describes man's relationship with the Almighty prior to salvation
for if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son (Ro 5:10-note).
Comment: Since the beginning of recorded history, the entire world has been at peace less than eight percent of the time! In its study, the periodical discovered that of 3530 years of recorded history, only 286 years saw peace. Moreover, in excess of 8000 peace treaties were made--and broken.
If grace defines our "resources", peace is the conscious possession of those more than adequate resources.
Peace is defined by Cremer as "a state of untroubled, undisturbed wellbeing.”
Peace contrasts with strife and thus denotes the absence or end of strife. Peace for a believer is not the absence of danger but is the presence of God (cp Psalm 27:1 - See Spurgeon's note). Peace is not a hallowed feeling that comes over us in church but is the supernatural fruit of a heart set deep in God and His trustworthy Word. And so peace is the conscious possession of adequate resources for God's Name is "I Am ____________."(Fill in the blank with your need... not your greed, but your need!) Peace rules your day when Christ (and His Word) rules your mind, because peace comes not from the absence of trouble, but from the presence of God.
I hear the words of love,
I gaze upon the blood,
I see the mighty sacrifice,
And I have peace with God.
-Horatius Bonar
(Play Hymn)
Eirene includes both the concept of an agreement, pact, treaty or bond and of an attitude of rest or security.
Webster defines peace as a state of tranquility or quiet, freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions, harmony in personal relations, a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity, state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.
Five great enemies to peace: greed, ambition, envy, anger and pride. - Petrarch
Hampton Keathley has an interesting discussion of various aspects of peace:
The Peace of Reconciliation, Peace with God - Peace with God refers to the peace of salvation wherein the barriers, like man’s sin and God’s holiness, which separate man from God are removed through faith in God’s gracious work in Christ. (Ep 2:14, 15-notes; Ro 5:1-note)
The Peace of Fellowship, the Peace of a Conscience Void of Offense - This is the personal peace which God gives to the individual through fellowship with the Lord, or through walking in concord with God with all known sin confessed and turned over to God’s grace. (1John 1:9; 3:21; 3:21; 1Ti 1:5; Acts 24:16; 2Ti 1:3-note)
The Peace of Assurance, the Peace of God - This is the peace or rest of soul that comes from being confident of God’s supply and that God is in control of all the affairs of life. This is the peace that settles our nerves, fills our minds, and allows us to relax even in the midst of the uproar around us. (Php 4:6, 7, 8, 9-notes; Ps119:165-note; Pr 3:13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
[Ed: Peace rules the day when Christ rules the mind.]
The Peace of Harmony, Peace with Others - This is the peace of unity and oneness in the body of Christ; oneness of mind and purpose (Ep 4:3-note; 1Th 5:13-note)
The Peace of State, Public Peace - This is the peace of righteous rule and comes through good rulers or governments acting in accord with the principles of the Word and through a strong nucleus of godly citizens who apply and live by the truth of Scripture (cf. the early chapters of Isaiah). (Ro 13:1, 2, 3, 4-notes)
Global or World Peace - This is the peace of a world without war and disharmony which can only occur with the return and reign of the Lord (cf. Re 20:4, 5, 6-notes). Until then, there will be wars and rumors of wars (Mt 24:1-15).
Illustrations related to World Peace or Lack of --Society of International Law, in London, states that during the last 4,000 years there have been only 268 years of peace in spite of good peace treaties. In the last 3 centuries there have been 286 wars on the continent of Europe alone.- Bible.org;
"The Personnel Journal reported this incredible statistic: since the beginning of recorded history, the entire world has been at peace less than eight percent of the time! In its study, the periodical discovered that of 3530 years of recorded history, only 286 years saw peace. Moreover, in excess of 8000 peace treaties were made—and broken." (Bible.org)
A former president of the Norwegian Academy of Sciences and historians from England, Egypt, Germany, and India have come up with some startling information: Since 3600 B.C. the world has known only 292 years of peace! During this period there have been 14,351 wars, large and small, in which 3.64 billion people have been killed. The value of the property destroyed would pay for a golden belt around the world 97.2 miles wide and 33 feet thick. Since 650 B.C. there have also been 1656 arms races, only 16 of which have not ended in war. The remainder ended in the economic collapse of the countries involved. (Bible.org)
The Peace of Orderliness - This is the peace or tranquility that we experience when we do things decently and in order. (1Co 14:40)
The Peace of Blessing - The wish expressed to others in a greeting for spiritual and physical prosperity, security, and safety as seen in the expression, “Peace, friend” or “Shalom.”
Do you lack peace in some area of your life?
Do you have peace with God with Christ as your Savior?
Do you have the peace of God so you are resting in God’s supply?
Do you have the peace of fellowship with a conscience that is void of offense (void of known sins, sins that have not been confessed)?
Do you have peace in your home, with your fellow believers?
When we do not have peace, it is because somewhere we are not appropriating or resting in God’s grace.
Remember, peace does not mean the absence of pain or hurt. It means that in our pain our hurt, we have peace because we know the Lord and we know He is in control.
Again let’s remember Peter’s words, “but grow in the grace” and Paul’s words, “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2Pe 3:18-note)
We are never told to pursue happiness, but the author of Hebrews does tell us to pursue peace and warns us against the danger of coming short of God’s grace. (He 12:14, 15-note) (see the complete article - Grace and Peace By: J. Hampton Keathley, III , Th.M)
Peace in the Hebrew mindset (especially as implied in the Hebrew word shalom - click discussion of "Jehovah Shalom" the LORD our Peace) implies health, wholeness, soundness, welfare, health, well-being, prosperity and peace as opposed to war. For example in the Greek translation of the Hebrew (Septuagint = Lxx) of (2 Ki 5:22) the phrase "All is well (shalom)" is translated by eirene. In (Jdg 18:15-note) we have the phrase "asked him of his welfare (shalom)" where "welfare" is translated by eirene.
Eirene is used in the famous Aaronic blessing
Jehovah lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace (shalom translated eirene in Lxx). (Nu 6:26)
Peace floods the soul
when Christ rules the heart
As G Campbell Morgan said "There is no escape from God; and that fact is the reason of confidence, and the secret of peace, in the days most full of the apparent triumph of evil men."
Alexander Maclaren adds that "Peace comes not from the absence of trouble, but from the presence of God." (Ed: In other words peace is not just a truth [which it is] but is ultimately a Person, Christ Jesus - [cp Jn 14:27, note especially the phrase "in Me" in Jn 16:33, cp Ro 1:7-note, Ro 5:1-note])
Eirene not surprisingly is associated closely with the Messiah, the Source of all peace, the One Who is Himself Peace. In that sense, there will be no universal peace until the Prince of peace appears. In the meantime we can pray
Drop Thy still dew of quietness
Till all our strivings cease;
Take from our souls the strain and stress,
And let our ordered lives confess
The beauty of Thy peace.
John Greenleaf Whittier
The psalmist prays...
May peace (shalom = eirene in Lxx) be within your walls, and prosperity within your palaces. (Ps 122:7- See Spurgeon's Note)
Comment: This is a most appropriate prayer for Jerusalem ["city of peace"], whose name means peace and is to be the future residence of the God of peace, the Messiah.
Isaiah prophesied of this future "Prince of Peace" declaring...
For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. (Isa 9:6-note)
Isaiah later prophesied that Messiah would become the substitutionary sacrifice so that men by faith in this "good news" could find eternal peace...
(The Messiah, the Lamb of God) "was pierced through (note how he speaks as if it had already happened!) for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. The chastening for our well-being (shalom = eirene in Lxx) fell upon Him ("the punishment that brought us peace" NIV) and by His scourging we are healed. (Isa 53:5)
The birth of the Prince of Peace, the Messiah, was announced by the angelic hosts...
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." (Lk 2:14)
Psalm 118:26 (note) prophesied Messiah's triumphal entry into Jerusalem at the beginning of the week in which He was crucified. This psalm was quoted and sung as the Jewish pilgrims made their way into Jerusalem in Luke 19...
saying, "BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Peacein heaven and glory in the highest!" (Luke 19:38)
Although the Jews sang of their Messianic King, their actions showed that most rejected His rule in their lives and thus Jesus pronounced a judgment on the unbelieving Jews...
saying, "If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. (Lk 19:42)
Speaking to His disciples just before He went to the Cross, Jesus promised that they would have peace declaring...
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. (Jn 14:27).
These things (Jn 14-16) I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (Jn 16:33)
Comment: Peace that Jesus gives is not the absence of trouble, but is rather the confidence that He is always with us.
In Adam all men are dead in their trespasses and sins, hostile toward and at war with God so that our peace with Him is disturbed. Paul explained that
just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned (Ro 5:12-note)
For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. (1Co 15:22)
Isaiah put it bluntly...
"There is no peace (shalom) for the wicked," says the LORD. (Isaiah 48:22)
Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whispers peace within;
Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?
Jesus, we know, and He is on the throne.Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus—this is rest.Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round?
On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found.Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away?
In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they.Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?
Jesus we know, and He is on the throne
—Edward Henry BickerstethBackground on this hymn - In 1875, Bickersteth heard a sermon on Isaiah 26:3, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee." After hearing this sermon he went to visit a dying relative. In order to comfort the troubled man, he sat down and wrote the poem "Peace, Perfect Peace" and then read it to him. The son of the author said, "The most touching occasion on which, personally, I ever heard it sung was round the grave of my eldest brother, Bishop Edward Bickersteth (of South Tokyo) at Chiselden in 1897, when my father was chief mourner" (One Hundred and One Hymn Stories by Carl F Price).
Another version of the story - One morning in 1875 Canon Gibbon of Harrogate preached from the text: `Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee.' The Hebrew is `peace, peace' instead of 'perfect peace'. Bishop Bickersteth wrote the hymn, putting each first line in the form of a question and giving the answer in each second line: 'Peace, perfect peace—in this dark world of sin? The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.' (Isa. 26:3, 12; 2 The. 3:16)
Matthew Henry rightly asked "What peace can they have who are not at peace with God?"..."Peace is such a precious jewel, that I would give anything for it but truth."
Read about Mrs Winchester (wife of the famous gun company owner) and her desperate, vain search for peaces by endlessly building on the Winchester Mansion.
Spurgeon adds that...
A genuine Christian dreads sin. He will not say, “Is it not a little one?” for he knows that a little sin is like a small dose of a very potent poison. It is sufficient to destroy our peace and comfort....(Sin) injures your faith, destroys your enjoyment, withers up your peace, weakens you in prayer, and prevents your example being beneficial to others.
The Christian’s heart is like Noah’s dove. It flies over the wide waste, and cannot rest the sole of its foot until it comes back to Christ. He is the true Noah, who puts out his hand and takes in the weary, fluttering dove, and gives it rest. There is no peace the whole world over but with Christ.
D L Moody - A great many people are trying to make peace, but that has already been done. God has not left it for us to do; all we have to do is to enter into it.
Spurgeon on Ezekiel 16:63KJV (pacified ~ peace-ified)
When I am peace-ified; when I am made peace toward thee. God thinks of nothing but peace toward his children. “Peace, peace,” says he. He is the God ofpeace (Php 4:9-note), the fruit of his Spirit is peace (Gal 5:22-note), the very name of his Son is peace (Is 9:6-note). The heaven to which he is bringing us is everlasting peace. And even now the peace of God which passeth all understanding keeps our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ (Php 4:7-note).
Paul summed up the state of all men in Adam writing...
AND THE PATH OF PEACE HAVE THEY NOT KNOWN." (Ro 3:17-note)
Paul then went on to explain the path of peace with God writing that all who believe in the gospel have...
"been justified by faith (and) have peace (eirene) with God through our Lord Jesus." Christ." (Ro 5:1-note)
having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION (foundation) OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE (Ep 6:15-note)
In Colossians, Paul explained how this peace was made possible for all men (all of whom are born into Adam), writing that
it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fulness to dwell in Him (Christ), and through Him (Christ) to reconcile all things to Himself (God the Father), having made peace through the blood of His (Messiah's) cross... (Col 1:19, 20-note)
Wuest adds that "by His (Messiah's) death, (Jesus) satisfied the just demands of the law which we broke, thus making it possible for a righteous and holy God to bestow mercy upon a believing sinner and do so without violating His justice. Our Lord thusbound together again the believing sinner and God (in an indissoluble, living union), thus making peace. There is therefore a state of untroubled, undisturbed wellbeing for the sinner who places his faith in the Saviour. The law of God has nothing against him, and he can look up into the Father’s face unafraid and unashamed. This is justifying peace." (Wuest's Word Studies from the Greek New Testament: Eerdmans)
The peace Paul describes here is not a subjective, internal sense of calm and serenity, but an eternal, objective reality. So the first great result of justification is that the sinner’s war with God (cp Ro 1:30-note, Ro 5:10-note, Ro 8:7-note) is ended forever, Paul explaining that
although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach (Col 1:21-note).
Justification by faith brings reconciliation and restoration of peace with God just as Adam experienced in walking in the Garden with God before the Fall!
Here in first Peter, the peace that Peter is asking God to "multiply" refers to that subjective, internal sense of calm and serenity, the peace of God, for through their election, the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the sprinkling of the blood of Christ (and their justification by faith as described above by Paul) the born again readers have a permanent possession of peace with God. As Horatius Bonar said "I hear the words of love, I gaze upon the blood, I see the mighty sacrifice, And I have peace with God."
Wuest further explains that the peace of God which Peter prays for is "sanctifying peace, that state of untroubled, undisturbed tranquility and well being produced in the heart of the yielded saint by the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-note). We have this peace to the extent that we are yielded to the Spirit and are intelligently conscious of and dependent upon His ministry for us." (Wuest, K. S. Wuest's Word Studies from the Greek New Testament: Eerdmans)
Erwin Lutzer rightly says that "Emotional peace and calm come after doing God’s will and not before."
Peace with God flows from purity of heart. This peace is inexplicable and undeniable asSpurgeon illustrates...
A martyr was fastened to the stake, and the sheriff who was to execute him expressed his sorrow that he should persevere in his opinions and compel him to set fire to the pile. The martyr answered, “Come and lay your hand on my heart, and see if it does not beat quietly.” His request was complied with, and he was found to be quite calm. “Now,” said he, “lay your hand on your own heart, and see if you are not more troubled than I am. Then go your way, and instead of pitying me, pity yourself.” (Comment: As an aside, any so-called "peace" that an unredeemed sinner "feels" is not from knowledge of his happiness ["depends on what happens"] but the ignorance of his danger.)
Spurgeon was right when he said that...
Awe of God’s Word is a main element in that love of God’s law which brings great peace...
I find myself frequently depressed—perhaps more so than any other person here. And I find no better cure for that depression than to trust in the Lord with all my heart, and seek to realize afresh the power of the peace-speaking blood of Jesus, and his infinite love in dying upon the cross to put away all my transgressions...
Beware of the peace which is drawn from the stagnant pool of superstition. It will carry death into your soul.
In Romans 8 Paul describes this peace associated with our daily sanctification, as believers, controlled by the Spirit, walk in the Spirit and habitually make choices that "hit God's mark" (sin being the missing of His mark which good and acceptable and perfect) and thus please God...
for the mind set on the flesh (the mind inherited from Adam which is controlled or dominated by the evil nature opposed to God) is death, but the mind set on (possessed by, controlled by, dominated by, yielded to) the Spirit is life andpeace, ("if the Holy Spirit controls your mind, there is life and peace" NLT) (Ro 8:6-note)
In his unveiling of the mystery of the Church Paul explains that
"now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off (Gentiles) have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, Who made both groups (Jews and Gentiles) into one, and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself He might make the two into one new (qualitatively - one that never existed before) man, thus establishing peace, and might reconcile them both in one body (the church) to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity. And He came and preached peace to you who were far away (Gentiles) and peace to those who were near (Jews) for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father." (Eph 2:13-18-see notes Ep 2:13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18)
Paul explains the nature of Messiah's Kingdom writing that...
the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Ro 14:17-note)
Five times in the New Testament we encounter the beautiful name the God of Peace, the Source of true peace (which parallels the OT name Jehovah Shalom) -- (See Ro 15:33-note; Ro 16:20-note; Php 4:9-note; 1Th 5:23-note; He 13:20-note)
Play "Like a river glorious, is God's perfect peace." Pause and meditate a few moments on God's perfect peace in Christ as you sing this great hymn to Him...
Like a river glorious, is God's perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in its bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way.
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand,
Never foe can follow, never traitor stand;
Not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
Not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Every joy or trial falleth from above,
Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love;
We may trust Him fully all for us to do.
They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.
Francis Havergal
In 1555, Nicholas Ridley was burned at the stake because of his witness for Christ. On the night before Ridley's execution, his brother offered to remain with him in the prison chamber to be of assistance and comfort. Nicholas declined the offer and replied that he meant to go to bed and sleep as quietly as ever he did in his life. Because he knew the peace of God, he could rest in the strength of the everlasting arms of his Lord to meet his need. So can we!
The peace of God will keep us from sinning under our troubles and from sinking under them. - Matthew Henry
The peace of God is that eternal calm which lies far too deep in the praying, trusting soul to be reached by any external disturbances. (A. T. Pierson)
The Peace of God “is not a pretense of peace but a divine reality that the world can neither create nor destroy.” “If we lose inward peace, we lose more than a fortune can buy.” (C H Spurgeon)
Editorial comment - As an aside have you ever noticed how the world's sign of peace is essentially an upside down cross, the absolute antithesis of the Source of true peace with God, found only on the upright old rugged cross and the blood of the Lamb, for as Paul explains He has "made peace through the blood of His cross." (Colossians 1:20-note)
Do you know the God of Peace as your Lord and Savior? If not consider reading Billy Graham's online book entitled how to have Peace With God.
See also James Hastings excellent 332 page book entitled The Christian Doctrine of Peace (1922)
Outside of Christ there is no peace
Only those in Christ know peace
Objectively saints in Christ Jesus are at peace with God (Ro 5:1-note). The war between the believer and God is over and the peace treaty was "signed" in blood, the precious blood of Christ. Because of this great transaction, believers can be at rest and secure in experience or practice as well as in position. Speaking of the experiential peace now available to all believers, Paul writes
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (see note Philippians 4:7)
Paul prays for experiential peace (peace of sanctification, sanctifying peace, peace of God on a moment by moment basis) for the saints at Rome, asking
"the God of hope (to) fill you with all joy and peace in believing (i.e., peace experienced in the sphere of habitually believing and which [enabled by the Spirit] is demonstrated in one's obedient thoughts, words, and deeds), that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (see note Romans 15:13)
Paul intercedes on behalf of the believers at Thessalonica to experience God's peace associated with sanctification (peace of God)...
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. (see notes 1Thessalonians 5:23; 24)
Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord [be] with you all!" (2Th 3:16)
Comment: Have you ever prayed Pauline prayers like those above for other believers? If not why not? Remember that Paul never prayed for physical needs for believers but for the deeper needs of the soul and spirit. The church must return to these types of prayers and can do so in full confidence that God is "obligated" to answer them according to His good and acceptable and perfect will. Pray this prayer for your pastor, your elders, your church members, your family. It will take about 5 seconds to pray it each day for the next year or less than 30 minutes for the entire year! And of course pray it in faith with a pure heart and clean hands and not as a rote, mechanical act. God will answer it although you may not always see His answers. Walk by faith, not sight! (2 Cor 5:7)
The peace Paul is praying for is not that resulting from cessation of tribulations and distresses, but is the calmness of heart that is independent of circumstances because it arises out of a belief that the sovereign God is with you and in control of the circumstances.
John Macarthur adds that "At the individual level this (experiential) peace, unknown to the unsaved, secures composure in difficult trouble (cf. Jn 14:1), dissolves fear (Php 4:7-note) and rules in the hearts of God’s people to maintain harmony (Col 3:15-note). (MacArthur, J.: The MacArthur Study Bible Nashville: Word Pub)
The greatest reality of this peace will be in the messianic kingdom (Ezek 37:26-note; Hag. 2:9) when the Prince of peace, Who is the Lord of Peace and the God of Peace reigns in the City of Peace.
As noted above, peace flows out of grace and both together flow forth from God our Father and were made effective and attainable through the Lord Jesus Christ.
If we lose inward peace, we lose more than a fortune can buy. - C. H. Spurgeon
It is in the way of truth that real peace is found. - C. H. Spurgeon
We must not be so in love with the golden crown of peace as to pluck off the jewels of truth. - Thomas Watson
Peace is a free gift and flows from the pure mercy of God. - John Calvin
Few things more adorn and beautify a Christian profession than exercising and manifesting the spirit of peace. - A. W. Pink
Barclay explains that eirene or peace "in contemporary colloquial Greek...had two interesting usages. It was used of the serenity which a county enjoyed under the just and beneficent government of a good emperor; and it was used of the good order of a town or village. Villages had an official who was called the superintendent of the village’s eirene, the keeper of the public peace. Usually in the New Testament eirene stands for the Hebrew shalom and means not just freedom from trouble but everything that makes for a man’s highest good. It is interesting to note that Chara (Grace) and Eirene (Peace ~ "Irene") both became very common Christian names in the Church." (Galatians 5 Commentary - William Barclay's Daily Study Bible)
Ray Ortlund encourages us to "Set no limits where God himself sets no limits. It is not possible to have too much grace and peace. We have not exhausted the possibilities. Most of us don’t even think in terms of the possibilities of what God can do for us. But the Word of God greets us here with this open-ended encouragement: “Grace and peace be yours in abundance! May they be multiplied to you!”
John Butler - The Word of God is the great peace giver. It will get no 'Nobel Peace' prizes but it does more to bring peace to the world than all the 'Nobel Peace' prize winners put together. Troubled souls are everywhere. People are popping pills in record numbers to try to still the troubles of their soul. Peace is an elusive thing to individuals and also to nations. People desperately want peace, but they do not have it. And the reason they do not have peace is that they, like Israel of old, have ignored the precepts of God. Try as you may you cannot have true peace when you disobey God's commandments. (Butler's Sermon Starters 8)
Vance Havner - Today this drugged, drunk, doped generation pitifully tries to induce chemically a tranquillity that does not come that way. Peace is not packaged in pills.
A Little Loss of Peace Can Ruin An Entire Day! - You may never have heard of a whelk (another article), but this little ocean creature can ruin an oyster’s day. The whelk has an appendage that works like an augur, with which it can bore a small hole in the top of an oyster’s shell. Through this very small hole a whelk can devour an entire oyster, sucking it out little by little until the oyster is gone. (Today in the Word) If there is a "little whelk" in your world today, step aside from the hectic pace and ponder the words of the following song, asking the Spirit of Jesus to speak peace to your heart for as the psalmist says "He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones." (Psalm 85:8).
Wonderful Peace
Written by Warren D Connell
(Country vocal version almost sounds like Willie Nelson!)
(Don Moen's vocal version)
Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight
Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm;
In celestial-like strains it unceasingly falls
O’er my soul like an infinite calm.
Refrain:
Peace, peace, wonderful peace,
Coming down from the Father above!
Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray
In fathomless billows of love!
What a treasure I have in this wonderful peace,
Buried deep in the heart of my soul,
So secure that no power can mine it away,
While the years of eternity roll!
I am resting tonight in this wonderful peace,
Resting sweetly in Jesus’ control;
For I’m kept from all danger by night and by day,
And His glory is flooding my soul!
And I think when I rise to that city of peace,
Where the Author of peace I shall see,
That one strain of the song which the ransomed will sing
In that heavenly kingdom will be:
Ah soul, are you here without comfort and rest,
Marching down the rough pathway of time?
Make Jesus your friend ere the shadows grow dark;
Oh, accept this sweet peace so sublime!
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A REAL LIFE ILLUSTRATION OF "PEACE" - Jim Walton was translating the NT for the Muinane people of La Sabana in the jungles of Colombia. But he was having trouble with the word peace. During this time, Fernando, the village chief, was promised a 20-minute plane ride to a location that would have taken him 3 days to travel by walking. The plane was delayed in arriving at La Sabana, so Fernando departed on foot. When the plane finally came, a runner took off to bring Fernando back. But by the time he had returned, the plane had left. Fernando was livid because of the mix-up. He went to Jim and launched into an angry tirade. Fortunately, Walton had taped the chief's diatribe. When he later translated it, he discovered that the chief kept repeating the phrase, "I don't have one heart." Jim asked other villagers what having "one heart" meant, and he found that it was like saying, "There is nothing between you and the other person." That, Walton realized, was just what he needed to translate the word peace. To have peace with God means that there is nothing--no sin, no guilt, no condemnation--that separates us. And that peace with God is possible only through Christ (Ro 5:1-note). Do you have "one heart" with God today?
Here is a poem from German author Gerhardt Ter Steegen, which has blessed many:
"How sweet, when with a childlike grace
We walk before the Father's face,
And seek but Him to please!
How sweet, when we to all below
A meek and quiet spirit show,
And live in perfect peace!
"How sweet it is, retired and free,
In such a desert place to be
And hear the voice of peace!
How sweet, when undisturbed we rest,
Like children on a parent's breast,
And from our own works cease!
"O precious, sweet eternity,
Thou realm of peace, how happy he
Who Thee within hath found!
My spirit, in thy silence blest,
Shall steadfast in concealment rest,
Till life hath reached its bound!
Other Illustrations of the Peace of God...
(1) In 1555, Nicholas Ridley was martyred by burning at the stake because of his witness for Christ. On the night before Ridley’s execution, his brother offered to remain with him in the prison chamber to be of assistance and comfort. Nicholas declined the offer and replied that he meant to go to bed and sleep as quietly as ever he did in his life. Because he knew the PEACE OF GOD, he could rest in the strength of the everlasting arms of his Lord to meet his need. So can we!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
--Scriven
(2) Horatio Spafford had just been ruined financially by the great Chicago Fire of October, 1871. Shortly thereafter, while crossing the Atlantic, all four of Spafford’s daughters died in a collision with another ship. Spafford’s wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, “Saved alone.” Several weeks later, as Spafford’s own ship passed near the spot where his daughters died, the Holy Spirit suddenly overwhelmed him with what can only be described as an inrush of SUPERNATURAL PEACE (the peace of God). With tears streaming down his face, he picked up a pen to record his feelings & from his heart filled with the peace of God flowed the timeless words that speak of that peace God provides even though our world is falling apart.
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
(Play Hymn)
(3) The Compass on a Steamboat - The compass on board an iron steamboat is placed aloft (at great height in the air), so that it may not be influenced by the metal of the ship. Though the compass is surrounded by that which would put it out of place, the needle faithfully adheres to the pole, because it is set above misleading influence. So it is with the child of God when the Lord has given him/her peace: he/she is lifted beyond the supremacy of his sorrowful surroundings, and his heart is delivered from its sad surroundings. (Spurgeon)
(4) When Australian pastor H. B. Macartney visited Hudson Taylor in China, he was amazed at the missionary's serenity in spite of his many burdens and busy schedule. Macartney finally mustered up the courage to say, "You are occupied with millions, I with tens. Your letters are pressingly important, mine of comparatively little value. Yet I am worried and distressed while you are always calm. Tell me, what makes the difference?" Taylor replied, "I could not possibly get through the work I have to do without the PEACE OF GOD which passes all understanding keeping my heart and mind." Macartney later wrote, "He was (abiding) in God all the time, and God was in him. It was the true abiding spoken of in John 15:5." Peace floods the soul when Christ rules the heart (Our Daily Bread)
(5) A contest was held in which artists were invited to paint a picture of PERFECT PEACE. The judges eventually narrowed the number of competitors to two. The first had created a scene of a quiet mountain lake. The second depicted a thundering waterfall with the branch of a birch tree bending over the foam. On the fork of that limb, wet with spray, a robin sat undisturbed on her nest. The first picture spoke of tranquility, but the second won the prize because it showed in dramatic detail that absolute calmness can be found in the midst of turbulent surroundings. Yes, it is easy to remain unruffled when everything is quiet and serene. But to rest while the storm is raging—that is "perfect peace." (Our Daily Bread)
(6) During World War II in London there was a blitz bombing at night. The people stayed each night in underground protection. But one Christian lady just stayed at home and slept through all the bombing. When asked about it, she said, “Well, my God neither slumbers nor sleeps, and there’s no need for both of us to stay awake!”
(7) One night an unexpected storm swept over a passenger ship sailing from England to New York, tossing the ship violently and awakening everyone on board, including the captain's eight-year-old daughter. "What's the matter?" the frightened child cried. After her mother explained about the storm, she asked, "Is Father on deck?" Assured that he was, the little girl snuggled back into her bed and in a few moments was sound asleep. Although the winds still blew and the waves still rolled, she had peace because her father was at the helm. Although the squalls of life strike us, we are assured of our Father's presence. He controls our lives and upholds us with His right hand. We may not dodge the storm, and the winds may still blow, but the Master of wind and wave is on board. And if we trust Him, He will either calm the waves or quiet our hearts. We need not nervously pace the deck if the Captain of our salvation is at the helm. Christ calls the restless ones to find their rest in Him. (Our Daily Bread)
(8) PEACE WITH GOD is “JUDICIAL” which means that for the believer the “war with God” is over forever. PEACE OF GOD is “EXPERIENTIAL” for it describes the believer’s day by day experience of peace which can be forfeited. This truth was tragically illustrated by the story of the post-WWII Japanese soldier who failed to experience peace, because he had not received news of the end of the war & as a result had hidden in the jungle, more than 20 years after peace had been declared between the United States and Japan.
(9) There is what is called "the cushion of the sea." Down beneath the surface that is agitated with storms, and driven about with winds, there is a part of the sea that is never stirred. When we dredge the bottom and bring up the remains of animal and vegetable life, we find that they give evidence of not having been disturbed in the least for hundreds and thousands of years. The peace of God is that eternal calm which, like the cushion of the sea, lies far too deep down to be reached by any external trouble and disturbance, and he who enters into the peace of God, and has the peace of God enter into him, becomes partaker of that undisturbed and undisturbable calm. (James Hastings, Editor - The Christian Doctrine of Peace)
(10) There is a story about a submarine that was being tested and as part of its test, it had to remain submerged beneath the surface for a long time. While the submarine was submerged, a powerful storm passed through the area, causing a great deal of damage. When the submarine returned to the harbor, the head of the team that was evaluating the submarine asked the captain, “How did that terrible storm affect you?” The captain looked at the man in surprise and exclaimed, “Storm? We didn’t even know there was one!” The reason for the captain’s surprise was that his submarine had been so far beneath the ocean’s surface that it reached this area known to sailors as “the cushion of the sea.” Although a storm’s high winds may whip the surface into huge waves, the waters in the “cushion” are not even stirred. So while vessels up above were being subjected to turmoil and damage, the submarine down below was not affected. It remained "at peace" so to speak safely set on the “cushion.” This illustration pictures the supernatural peace of God which guards the believer's heart, in response to thankful prayer (Php 4:6)
(11) During the French war, a train carrying dispatches to the headquarters was compelled to go over sixty miles of very rough road, and reach its destination within an hour. The engineer was the bearer of the dispatches, and his wife and child were in the coach. Every moment threatened to pitch the train over the embankment or over a bridge, and, as it rolled from side to side, leaping at times almost in the air, rushing past stations, the few people inside held their breath and often cried out with terror as they sped along. There was one on that train who knew nothing of their fears and that was the child of the engineer. Happy as a bird, she laughed aloud when asked if she were not afraid, and looked up and answered, “Why, my father is at the engine.” A little later, the engineer came into the car to cheer up his wife and, as he wiped the great drops of sweat from his face, the child leaped into his arms and laid her head upon his bosom, as happy and peaceful as when at home. What a lesson for the children of the heavenly Father!. (Source: Effective Illustrations, William Moses Tidwell)
(12) A Touch of Humor - In one Peanuts cartoon Lucy says to Charlie Brown, “I hate everything. I hate everybody. I hate the whole wide world!” Charlie says, “But I thought you had inner peace.” Lucy replies, “I do have inner peace. But I still have outer obnoxiousness.” Source: Unknown
(13) Peace Found in Him - From very ancient times the hearts of men have longed for peace. Not merely that there shall be no more war, though that too; but more particularly peace of mind and heart. In the early days of Israel we have the benediction, "The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace." The Sanskrit invocations end with, "Peace, Peace, Peace." The Mohammedan greeting is, as of old, "Peace be upon thee." Where can we secure this peace that men have longed for through many centuries? The answer is given us in the words of the Master: "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you... These things have I spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace." (John 14:27) The peace that brings calm to the soul, even amid the storms that sweep over every life, is to be found in Him. It can be found nowhere else.—Christian Observer.
(14) In John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress (see original context of following quote) we read - Thus they discoursed together till late at night; and after they had committed themselves to their Lord for protection, they betook themselves to rest. The pilgrim they laid in a large upper chamber, whose window opened towards the sun-rising. The name of the chamber was Peace, where he slept till break of day, and then he awoke and sang,
"Where am I now? Is this the love and care
Of Jesus, for the men that pilgrims are,
Thus to provide that I should be forgiven,
And dwell already the next door to heaven!"
(15) The Spring Within - In some old castles are found deep wells meant to supply the garrison in time of siege. An aqueduct bringing water from without would be at the mercy of the enemy. But the foe has no power over the well inside. The peace the world seeks depends on one's surroundings, and in time of trouble its source is cut off; but the peace of Christ is a spring inside (John 4:13, 14-note, John 7:37-39-note).—The King's Business.
(16) Rest of a Soul - A woman lay dying. A minister sat beside her and tried to break the news as gently as he could. He said, "They think your time is short." "Yes," she said, "I know it." "Have you made your peace with God." "No," she replied, "I haven't made my peace with God." "Then you are not afraid to die?" "No." "Do you realize that in a few hours you must meet God?" "Yes." "And you have not made your peace with God?" "No, and I'm not going to." There was a strange light of perfect peace in the woman's eyes, and the minister realized that there was something back of it all. He said, "What do you mean?" She said, "Listen! I know I am dying, yet I have no fear of meeting God. I am resting in the peace which Jesus Christ made in his atoning death upon the cross, and I don't have to make my peace with God for I am resting in the peace which Jesus Christ has already made."—Evangelical Visitor.
(17) Peace and then Higher Peace and then the Highest Peace:
Three Christian brothers met one day
To speak of things divine;
They had so much of Christ to say,
With joy their faces shine.
The first one said, `My brothers dear,
By virtue of Christ's blood,
My heart retains no guilty fear,
I now have "Peace with God".' (Ro 5:1-note)
The second brother answered bold,
`You lag on heaven's road;
I grasp the truth with higher hold,
I have the "peace of God".' (Php 4:7-note)
The third dear brother drew up tall;
He laughed and scarce could cease:
`My brothers dear, I beat you all—
I have the "God of Peace.” (1Th 5:23-note)
They all had peace, they all were right,
But peace in diverse measure;
The third had scaled the highest height
Of Heaven's exalted pleasure.
—T. Baird
(13) (cp #9 and #10 above) John MacArthur's devotional - The Cushion of Peace - "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matt. 5:9). God’s peace cushions the soul during difficult times. I remember reading about what is called "the cushion of the sea." The ocean surface is often greatly agitated, but as you descend, the water becomes increasingly calm. At its greatest depths the ocean is virtually still. Oceanographers dredging ocean bottoms have found animal and plant remains that appear to have been undisturbed for hundreds of years. Similarly, Christians can experience a cushion of peace in their souls regardless of their troubled surroundings. That's because they belong to God, who is the source of peace; serve Christ, who is the Prince of Peace; and are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who is the agent of peace. Galatians 5:22 says, "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, [and] peace." When you become a Christian, God grants you the gift of peace. God is not only the source of perfect peace, but also its purest example. Everything He does is marked by peace. First Corinthians 14:33 says He is not a God of confusion but of peace. In Judges 6:24 He is called Jehovah-shalom, which means, "the Lord is peace." The Trinity is characterized by a total absence of conflict: perfect oneness, perfect righteousness, and absolute harmony. It is impossible for God to be at odds with Himself! God wants everyone to know that kind of peace. He created the world with peace and sent His Son to offer peace. Someday Christ will return to establish His kingdom and reign in peace for eternity. In the meantime turmoil exists for all who don't know Christ. They have no cushion for their souls. You, however, have peace with God through the death of Christ Jesus, and as you obey Him, His peace will continually reign in your heart. Don't ever let sin rob you of that blessed cushion. Only as you experience peace within yourself can you share it with others. Suggestions for Prayer - Thank God for the cushion of peace He has provided amid difficult circumstances.Ask God to use you as an instrument of His peace today. For Further Study - Read Isaiah 57:15-21, noting how God encourages the repentant and warns the wicked in relation to peace. (Grace to You)
When winds are raging o'er the upper ocean,
And billows wild contend with angry roar,
'Tis said, far down beneath the wild commotion,
That peaceful stillness reigneth evermore.
Far, far beneath, the noise of tempest dieth,
And silver waves chime ever peacefully,
And no rude storm, how fierce soe'er it flieth,
Disturbs the Sabbath of that deeper sea.
So to the heart that knows Thy love, O Purest,
There is a temple sacred evermore,
And all the babble of life's angry voices
Dies in hushed silence at its peaceful door.
Far, far away, the roar of passion dieth,
And loving thoughts rise calm and peacefully,
And no rude storm, how fierce soe'er it flieth,
Disturbs the soul that dwells, O Lord, in Thee.
--Harriet Beecher Stowe
(11) See multiple devotionals related to the peace of God
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J H Jowett Devotional April The Eighth MY INHERITANCE IN THE RISEN LORD 1Peter 1:1-9.
IN my risen Lord I am born into “a living hope,” a hope not only vital, but vitalizing, sending its mystic, vivifying influences through every highway and by-way of my soul.
In my risen Lord mine is “an inheritance incorruptible.” It is not exposed to the gnawing tooth of time. Moth and rust can not impair the treasure. It will not grow less as I grow old. Its glories are as invulnerable as my Lord.
In my risen Lord mine is “an inheritance ... undefiled.” There is no alloy in the fine gold. The King will give me of His best. “Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him.” The holiest ideal proclaims my possibility, and foretells my ultimate attainment. Heaven’s wine is not to be mixed with water. I am to awake “in His likeness.”
And mine is “an inheritance ... that fadeth not away.” It shall not be as the garlands offered by men—green to-day and to-morrow sere and yellow. “Its leaf also shall not wither.” It shall always retain its freshness, and shall offer me a continually fresh delight. And these are all mine in Him!
“Thou, O Christ, art all I want.”
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Unconditional Peace - Long ago a man sought the perfect picture of peace. Not finding one that satisfied, he announced a contest to produce this masterpiece. The challenge stirred the imagination of artists everywhere, and paintings arrived from far and wide. Finally the great day of revelation arrived. The judges uncovered one peaceful scene after another, while the viewers clapped and cheered. The tensions grew. Only two pictures remained veiled. As a judge pulled the cover from one, a hush fell over the crowd. A mirror-smooth lake reflected lacy, green birches under the soft blush of the evening sky. Along the grassy shore, a flock of sheep grazed undisturbed. Surely this was the winner.
The man with the vision uncovered the second painting himself, and the crowd gasped in surprise. Could this be peace? A tumultuous waterfall cascaded down a rocky precipice; the crowd could almost feel its cold, penetrating spray. Stormy-gray clouds threatened to explode with lightning, wind and rain. In the midst of the thundering noises and bitter chill, a spindly tree clung to the rocks at the edge of the falls. One of its branches reached out in front of the torrential waters as if foolishly seeking to experience its full power. A little bird had built a nest in the elbow of that branch. Content and undisturbed in her stormy surroundings, she rested on her eggs. With her eyes closed and her wings ready to cover her little ones, she manifested peace that transcends all earthly turmoil. (Online book - 8 week study of Armor of God - A Wardrobe from the King, Berit Kjos)
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PEACE OF PARDON—Not a Mere Forgetfulness - I have spilled the ink over a bill and so have blotted it till it can hardly be read, but this is quite another thing from having the debt blotted out, for that cannot be till payment is made. So a man may blot his sins from his memory, and quiet his mind with false hopes, but the peace which this will bring him is widely different from that which arises from God's forgiveness of sin through the satisfaction which Jesus made in his atonement. Our blotting is one thing, God's blotting out is something far higher.— Spurgeon in Feathers for Arrows
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Augustine, after years of tossing to and fro, found peace with God by hearing a little child say, "Take up, and read." I suppose that the child was singing to itself, and hardly knew what it was saying as it repeated to itself the two words—"Tolle, lege; tolle, lege; tolle, lege." "Take up, and read." That voice struck the ear of the perplexed thinker as though it were the voice of God, and he took the Scripture, and read the Scripture, and no sooner had he read it than he found Christ. I would entreat each one of you to do this, in order that you may find rest for your soul. Believe what is revealed in Holy Scripture. — Barbed Arrows from the Quiver of C. H. Spurgeon
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Peace—uplifting. The compass on board an iron steam-vessel is placed aloft, so that it may not be so much influenced by the metal of the ship: though surrounded by that which would put it out of place, the needle faithfully adheres to the pole, because it is set above misleading influence. So with the child of God when the Lord has given him peace: he is lifted beyond the supremacy of his sorrowful surroundings, and his heart is delivered from its sad surroundings.— Barbed Arrows from the Quiver of C. H. Spurgeon
- Eirene 92x in 85v - All uses are translated "peace" except one - "undisturbed". See all uses below.
Matthew 10:13 "If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace.
34 "Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.
Mark 5:34 And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction."
Luke 1:79 TO SHINE UPON THOSE WHO SIT IN DARKNESS AND THE SHADOW OF DEATH, To guide our feet into the way of peace."
Luke 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
29 "Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word;
Luke 7:50 And He said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Luke 8:48 And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace."
Luke 10:5 "Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house.'
6 "If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you.
Luke 11:21 "When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are undisturbed.
Luke 12:51 "Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division;
Luke 14:32 "Or else, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace.
Luke 19:38 shouting: "BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"
42 saying, "If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes.
Luke 24:36 While they were telling these things, He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be to you."
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
Comment: Peace that Jesus gives is not the absence of trouble, but is rather the confidence that He is there with you always (cp Mt 28:20).
John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
John 20:19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be with you."
21 So Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you."
26 After eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors having been shut, and stood in their midst and said, "Peace be with you."
Acts 7:26 "On the following day he appeared to them as they were fighting together, and he tried to reconcile them in peace, saying, 'Men, you are brethren, why do you injure one another?'
Acts 9:31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
Acts 10:36 "The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)--
Acts 12:20 Now he was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; and with one accord they came to him, and having won over Blastus the king's chamberlain, they were asking for peace, because their country was fed by the king's country.
Acts 15:33 After they had spent time there, they were sent away from the brethren in peace to those who had sent them out.
Acts 16:36 And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, "The chief magistrates have sent to release you. Therefore come out now and go in peace."
Acts 24:2 After Paul had been summoned, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying to the governor, "Since we have through you attained much peace, and since by your providence reforms are being carried out for this nation,
Romans 1:7 to all who are beloved of God in Rome, called as saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 2:10 but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Romans 3:17 AND THE PATH OF PEACE THEY HAVE NOT KNOWN."
Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Romans 8:6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace,
Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
19 So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.
Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
33 Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Romans 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 7:15 Yet if the unbelieving one leaves, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace.
1 Corinthians 14:33 for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
1 Corinthians 16:11 So let no one despise him. But send him on his way in peace, so that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren.
2 Corinthians 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Galatians 1:3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 6:16 And those who will walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
Ephesians 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:14 For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall,
15 by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace,
17 AND HE CAME AND PREACHED PEACE TO YOU WHO WERE FAR AWAY, AND PEACE TO THOSE WHO WERE NEAR;
Ephesians 4:3 being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 6:15 and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;
23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Colossians 1:2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
1 Thessalonians 1:1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace.
1 Thessalonians 5:3 While they are saying, "Peace and safety!" then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape.
23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!
1 Timothy 1:2 To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Timothy 1:2 To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
2 Timothy 2:22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Titus 1:4 To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.
Philemon 1:3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 7:2 to whom also Abraham apportioned a tenth part of all the spoils, was first of all, by the translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then also king of Salem, which is king of peace.
Hebrews 11:31 By faith Rahab the harlot did not perish along with those who were disobedient, after she had welcomed the spies in peace.
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 13:20 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord,
James 2:16 and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and be filled," and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?
James 3:18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
1 Peter 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.
1 Peter 3:11 "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.
1 Peter 5:14 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all who are in Christ.
2 Peter 1:2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord;
2 Peter 3:14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless,
2 John 1:3 Grace, mercy and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.
3 John 1:15 Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.
Jude 1:2 May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you.
Revelation 1:4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,
Revelation 6:4 And another, a red horse, went out; and to him who sat on it, it was granted to take peace from the earth, and that men would slay one another; and a great sword was given to him.
- Eirene - approximately 192 verses in the Septuagint (Lxx)
Genesis 15:15 "As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you will be buried at a good old age.
Genesis 26:29 that you will do us no harm, just as we have not touched you and have done to you nothing but good and have sent you away in peace. You are now the blessed of the LORD.'"
Exodus 18:23 "If you do this thing and God so commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all these people also will go to their place in peace."
Leviticus 26:6 'I shall also grant peace in the land, so that you may lie down with no one making you tremble. I shall also eliminate harmful beasts from the land, and no sword will pass through your land.
Numbers 6:26 The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.'
Numbers 25:12 "Therefore say, 'Behold, I give him My covenant of peace;
Deuteronomy 20:10 "When you approach a city to fight against it, you shall offer it terms of peace.
Joshua 9:15 Joshua made peace with them and made a covenant with them, to let them live; and the leaders of the congregation swore an oath to them.
Judges 4:17 Now Sisera fled away on foot to the tent of Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite, for there was peace between Jabin the king of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite.
Judges 6:23 The LORD said to him, "Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die."
24 Then Gideon built an altar there to the LORD and named it The LORD is Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
Judges 8:9 So he spoke also to the men of Penuel, saying, "When I return safely, I will tear down this tower."
Judges 11:13 The king of the sons of Ammon said to the messengers of Jephthah, "Because Israel took away my land when they came up from Egypt, from the Arnon as far as the Jabbok and the Jordan; therefore, return them peaceably now."
31 then it shall be that whatever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace from the sons of Ammon, it shall be the LORD'S, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering."
Judges 18:6 The priest said to them, "Go in peace; your way in which you are going has the LORD'S approval."
15 They turned aside there and came to the house of the young man, the Levite, to the house of Micah, and asked him of his welfare.
Judges 19:20 The old man said, "Peace to you. Only let me take care of all your needs; however, do not spend the night in the open square."
Judges 21:13 Then the whole congregation sent word and spoke to the sons of Benjamin who were at the rock of Rimmon, and proclaimed peace to them.
1 Samuel 1:17 Then Eli answered and said, "Go in peace; and may the God of Israel grant your petition that you have asked of Him."
1 Samuel 7:14 The cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron even to Gath; and Israel delivered their territory from the hand of the Philistines. So there was peace between Israel and the Amorites.
1 Samuel 10:4 and they will greet you and give you two loaves of bread, which you will accept from their hand.
1 Samuel 16:4 So Samuel did what the LORD said, and came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the city came trembling to meet him and said, "Do you come in peace?"
5 He said, "In peace; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves and come with me to the sacrifice." He also consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
1 Samuel 20:7 "If he says, 'It is good,' your servant will be safe; but if he is very angry, know that he has decided on evil.
13 "If it please my father to do you harm, may the LORD do so to Jonathan and more also, if I do not make it known to you and send you away, that you may go in safety. And may the LORD be with you as He has been with my father.
21 "And behold, I will send the lad, saying, 'Go, find the arrows.' If I specifically say to the lad, 'Behold, the arrows are on this side of you, get them,' then come; for there is safety for you and no harm, as the LORD lives.
42 Jonathan said to David, "Go in safety, inasmuch as we have sworn to each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD will be between me and you, and between my descendants and your descendants forever.'" Then he rose and departed, while Jonathan went into the city.
1 Samuel 25:5 So David sent ten young men; and David said to the young men, "Go up to Carmel, visit Nabal and greet him in my name;
35 So David received from her hand what she had brought him and said to her, "Go up to your house in peace. See, I have listened to you and granted your request."
1 Samuel 29:7 "Now therefore return and go in peace, that you may not displease the lords of the Philistines."
1 Samuel 30:21 When David came to the two hundred men who were too exhausted to follow David, who had also been left at the brook Besor, and they went out to meet David and to meet the people who were with him, then David approached the people and greeted them.
2 Samuel 3:21 Abner said to David, "Let me arise and go and gather all Israel to my lord the king, that they may make a covenant with you, and that you may be king over all that your soul desires." So David sent Abner away, and he went in peace.
22 And behold, the servants of David and Joab came from a raid and brought much spoil with them; but Abner was not with David in Hebron, for he had sent him away, and he had gone in peace.
23 When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, they told Joab, saying, "Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace."
24 Then Joab came to the king and said, "What have you done? Behold, Abner came to you; why then have you sent him away and he is already gone?
2 Samuel 8:10 Toi sent Joram his son to King David to greet him and bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer and defeated him; for Hadadezer had been at war with Toi. And Joram brought with him articles of silver, of gold and of bronze.
2 Samuel 11:7 When Uriah came to him, David asked concerning the welfare of Joab and the people and the state of the war.
2 Samuel 15:9 The king said to him, "Go in peace." So he arose and went to Hebron.
27 The king said also to Zadok the priest, "Are you not a seer? Return to the city in peace and your two sons with you, your son Ahimaaz and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.
2 Samuel 17:3 and I will bring back all the people to you. The return of everyone depends on the man you seek; then all the people will be at peace."
2 Samuel 18:28 Ahimaaz called and said to the king, "All is well." And he prostrated himself before the king with his face to the ground. And he said, "Blessed is the LORD your God, who has delivered up the men who lifted their hands against my lord the king."
29 The king said, "Is it well with the young man Absalom?" And Ahimaaz answered, "When Joab sent the king's servant, and your servant, I saw a great tumult, but I did not know what it was."
32 Then the king said to the Cushite, "Is it well with the young man Absalom?" And the Cushite answered, "Let the enemies of my lord the king, and all who rise up against you for evil, be as that young man!"
2 Samuel 19:24 Then Mephibosheth the son of Saul came down to meet the king; and he had neither cared for his feet, nor trimmed his mustache, nor washed his clothes, from the day the king departed until the day he came home in peace.
30 Mephibosheth said to the king, "Let him even take it all, since my lord the king has come safely to his own house."
1 Kings 2:5 "Now you also know what Joab the son of Zeruiah did to me, what he did to the two commanders of the armies of Israel, to Abner the son of Ner, and to Amasa the son of Jether, whom he killed; he also shed the blood of war in peace. And he put the blood of war on his belt about his waist, and on his sandals on his feet.
6 "So act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray hair go down to Sheol in peace.
13 Now Adonijah the son of Haggith came to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, "Do you come peacefully?" And he said, "Peacefully."
33 "So shall their blood return on the head of Joab and on the head of his descendants forever; but to David and his descendants and his house and his throne, may there be peace from the LORD forever."
1 Kings 4:20 Judah and Israel were as numerous as the sand that is on the seashore in abundance; they were eating and drinking and rejoicing.
24 For he had dominion over everything west of the River, from Tiphsah even to Gaza, over all the kings west of the River; and he had peace on all sides around about him.
1 Kings 5:12 The LORD gave wisdom to Solomon, just as He promised him; and there was peace between Hiram and Solomon, and the two of them made a covenant.
1 Kings 20:18 Then he said, "If they have come out for peace, take them alive; or if they have come out for war, take them alive."
1 Kings 22:17 So he said, "I saw all Israel Scattered on the mountains, Like sheep which have no shepherd. And the LORD said, 'These have no master. Let each of them return to his house in peace.'"
27 and say, 'Thus says the king, "Put this man in prison and feed him sparingly with bread and water until I return safely."'"
28 Micaiah said, "If you indeed return safely the LORD has not spoken by me." And he said, "Listen, all you people."
2 Kings 4:23 He said, "Why will you go to him today? It is neither new moon nor sabbath." And she said, "It will be well."
26 "Please run now to meet her and say to her, 'Is it well with you? Is it well with your husband? Is it well with the child?'" And she answered, "It is well."
2 Kings 5:19 He said to him, "Go in peace." So he departed from him some distance.
22 He said, "All is well. My master has sent me, saying, 'Behold, just now two young men of the sons of the prophets have come to me from the hill country of Ephraim. Please give them a talent of silver and two changes of clothes.'"
2 Kings 9:11 Now Jehu came out to the servants of his master, and one said to him, "Is all well? Why did this mad fellow come to you?" And he said to them, "You know very well the man and his talk."
17 Now the watchman was standing on the tower in Jezreel and he saw the company of Jehu as he came, and said, "I see a company." And Joram said, "Take a horseman and send him to meet them and let him say, 'Is it peace?'"
18 So a horseman went to meet him and said, "Thus says the king, 'Is it peace?'" And Jehu said, "What have you to do with peace? Turn behind me." And the watchman reported, "The messenger came to them, but he did not return."
19 Then he sent out a second horseman, who came to them and said, "Thus says the king, 'Is it peace?'" And Jehu answered, "What have you to do with peace? Turn behind me."
22 When Joram saw Jehu, he said, "Is it peace, Jehu?" And he answered, "What peace, so long as the harlotries of your mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?"
31 As Jehu entered the gate, she said, "Is it well, Zimri, your master's murderer?"
2 Kings 10:13 Jehu met the relatives of Ahaziah king of Judah and said, "Who are you?" And they answered, "We are the relatives of Ahaziah; and we have come down to greet the sons of the king and the sons of the queen mother."
2 Kings 20:19 Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "The word of the LORD which you have spoken is good." For he thought, "Is it not so, if there will be peace and truth in my days?"
2 Kings 22:20 "Therefore, behold, I will gather you to your fathers, and you will be gathered to your grave in peace, and your eyes will not see all the evil which I will bring on this place."'" So they brought back word to the king.
1 Chronicles 4:40 They found rich and good pasture, and the land was broad and quiet and peaceful; for those who lived there formerly were Hamites.
1 Chronicles 12:17 David went out to meet them, and said to them, "If you come peacefully to me to help me, my heart shall be united with you; but if to betray me to my adversaries, since there is no wrong in my hands, may the God of our fathers look on it and decide."
18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, who was the chief of the thirty, and he said, "We are yours, O David, And with you, O son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, And peace to him who helps you; Indeed, your God helps you!" Then David received them and made them captains of the band.
1 Chronicles 18:10 he sent Hadoram his son to King David to greet him and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer and had defeated him; for Hadadezer had been at war with Tou. And Hadoram brought all kinds of articles of gold and silver and bronze.
1 Chronicles 22:9 'Behold, a son will be born to you, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies on every side; for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quiet to Israel in his days.
2 Chronicles 15:5 "In those times there was no peace to him who went out or to him who came in, for many disturbances afflicted all the inhabitants of the lands.
2 Chronicles 18:16 So he said, "I saw all Israel Scattered on the mountains, Like sheep which have no shepherd; And the LORD said, 'These have no master. Let each of them return to his house in peace.'"
26 and say, 'Thus says the king, "Put this man in prison and feed him sparingly with bread and water until I return safely."'"
27 Micaiah said, "If you indeed return safely, the LORD has not spoken by me." And he said, "Listen, all you people."
2 Chronicles 19:1 Then Jehoshaphat the king of Judah returned in safety to his house in Jerusalem.
2 Chronicles 34:28 "Behold, I will gather you to your fathers and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace, so your eyes will not see all the evil which I will bring on this place and on its inhabitants."'" And they brought back word to the king.
Ezra 4:7 And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel and the rest of his colleagues wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic.
16 "We inform the king that if that city is rebuilt and the walls finished, as a result you will have no possession in the province beyond the River."
17 Then the king sent an answer to Rehum the commander, to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their colleagues who live in Samaria and in the rest of the provinces beyond the River: "Peace. And now
Ezra 5:7 They sent a report to him in which it was written thus: "To Darius the king, all peace.
Ezra 9:12 'So now do not give your daughters to their sons nor take their daughters to your sons, and never seek their peace or their prosperity, that you may be strong and eat the good things of the land and leave it as an inheritance to your sons forever.'
Esther 3:13 Letters were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces to destroy, to kill and to annihilate all the Jews, both young and old, women and children, in one day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to seize their possessions as plunder.
Esther 8:12 on one day in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month (that is, the month Adar).
Job 11:18 "Then you would trust, because there is hope; And you would look around and rest securely.
Psalm 4:8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.
Psalm 14:3 They have all turned aside, together they have become corrupt; There is no one who does good, not even one.
Psalm 28:3 Do not drag me away with the wicked And with those who work iniquity, Who speak peace with their neighbors, While evil is in their hearts.
Psalm 29:11 The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace.
Psalm 34:14 Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.
Psalm 35:27 Let them shout for joy and rejoice, who favor my vindication; And let them say continually, "The LORD be magnified, Who delights in the prosperity of His servant."
Psalm 37:11 But the humble will inherit the land And will delight themselves in abundant prosperity.
Psalm 38:3 There is no soundness in my flesh because of Your indignation; There is no health in my bones because of my sin.
Psalm 41:9 Even my close friend in whom I trusted, Who ate my bread, Has lifted up his heel against me.
Psalm 55:18 He will redeem my soul in peace from the battle which is against me, For they are many who strive with me.
Psalm 72:3 Let the mountains bring peace to the people, And the hills, in righteousness.
7 In his days may the righteous flourish, And abundance of peace till the moon is no more.
Psalm 73:3 For I was envious of the arrogant As I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
Psalm 76:2 His tabernacle is in Salem; His dwelling place also is in Zion.
Psalm 85:8 I will hear what God the LORD will say; For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones; But let them not turn back to folly.
10 Lovingkindness and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
Psalm 119:165 Those who love Your law have great peace, And nothing causes them to stumble.
Psalm 120:6 Too long has my soul had its dwelling With those who hate peace.
Psalm 122:6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you.
7 "May peace be within your walls, And prosperity within your palaces."
8 For the sake of my brothers and my friends, I will now say, "May peace be within you."
Psalm 125:5 But as for those who turn aside to their crooked ways, The LORD will lead them away with the doers of iniquity. Peace be upon Israel.
Psalm 128:6 Indeed, may you see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel!
Psalm 147:14 He makes peace in your borders; He satisfies you with the finest of the wheat.
Proverbs 3:2 For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways And all her paths are peace.
23 Then you will walk in your way securely And your foot will not stumble.
Proverbs 4:27 Do not turn to the right nor to the left; Turn your foot from evil.
Proverbs 12:20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.
Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Proverbs 17:1 Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it Than a house full of feasting with strife.
Ecclesiastes 3:8 A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace.
Song of Solomon 8:10 "I was a wall, and my breasts were like towers; Then I became in his eyes as one who finds peace.
Isaiah 9:6 For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.
Isaiah 14:30 "Those who are most helpless will eat, And the needy will lie down in security; I will destroy your root with famine, And it will kill off your survivors.
Isaiah 26:3 "The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.
12 LORD, You will establish peace for us, Since You have also performed for us all our works.
Isaiah 27:5 "Or let him rely on My protection, Let him make peace with Me, Let him make peace with Me."
Isaiah 29:24 "Those who err in mind will know the truth, And those who criticize will accept instruction.
Isaiah 32:4 The mind of the hasty will discern the truth, And the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak clearly.
17 And the work of righteousness will be peace, And the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever.
18 Then my people will live in a peaceful habitation, And in secure dwellings and in undisturbed resting places;
Isaiah 33:7 Behold, their brave men cry in the streets, The ambassadors of peace weep bitterly.
Isaiah 39:8 Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "The word of the LORD which you have spoken is good." For he thought, "For there will be peace and truth in my days."
Isaiah 41:3 "He pursues them, passing on in safety, By a way he had not been traversing with his feet.
Isaiah 45:7 The One forming light and creating darkness, Causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the LORD who does all these.
Isaiah 48:18 "If only you had paid attention to My commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river, And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.
Isaiah 52:7 How lovely on the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace And brings good news of happiness, Who announces salvation, And says to Zion, "Your God reigns!"
Isaiah 53:5 But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed.
Isaiah 54:10 "For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, But My lovingkindness will not be removed from you, And My covenant of peace will not be shaken," Says the LORD who has compassion on you.
13 "All your sons will be taught of the LORD; And the well-being of your sons will be great.
Isaiah 57:2 He enters into peace; They rest in their beds, Each one who walked in his upright way.
19 Creating the praise of the lips. Peace, peace to him who is far and to him who is near," Says the LORD, "and I will heal him."
Isaiah 59:8 They do not know the way of peace, And there is no justice in their tracks; They have made their paths crooked, Whoever treads on them does not know peace.
Isaiah 60:17 "Instead of bronze I will bring gold, And instead of iron I will bring silver, And instead of wood, bronze, And instead of stones, iron. And I will make peace your administrators And righteousness your overseers.
Isaiah 66:12 For thus says the LORD, "Behold, I extend peace to her like a river, And the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream; And you will be nursed, you will be carried on the hip and fondled on the knees.
Jeremiah 4:10 Then I said, "Ah, Lord GOD! Surely You have utterly deceived this people and Jerusalem, saying, 'You will have peace'; whereas a sword touches the throat."
Jeremiah 6:14 "They have healed the brokenness of My people superficially, Saying, 'Peace, peace,' But there is no peace.
Jeremiah 8:15 We waited for peace, but no good came; For a time of healing, but behold, terror!
Jeremiah 12:5 "If you have run with footmen and they have tired you out, Then how can you compete with horses? If you fall down in a land of peace, How will you do in the thicket of the Jordan?
12 "On all the bare heights in the wilderness Destroyers have come, For a sword of the LORD is devouring From one end of the land even to the other; There is no peace for anyone.
Jeremiah 14:13 But, "Ah, Lord GOD!" I said, "Look, the prophets are telling them, 'You will not see the sword nor will you have famine, but I will give you lasting peace in this place.'"
19 Have You completely rejected Judah? Or have You loathed Zion? Why have You stricken us so that we are beyond healing? We waited for peace, but nothing good came; And for a time of healing, but behold, terror!
Jeremiah 15:5 "Indeed, who will have pity on you, O Jerusalem, Or who will mourn for you, Or who will turn aside to ask about your welfare?
Jeremiah 16:5 For thus says the LORD, "Do not enter a house of mourning, or go to lament or to console them; for I have withdrawn My peace from this people," declares the LORD, "My lovingkindness and compassion.
Jeremiah 23:17 "They keep saying to those who despise Me, 'The LORD has said, "You will have peace "'; And as for everyone who walks in the stubbornness of his own heart, They say, 'Calamity will not come upon you.'
Jeremiah 25:37 "And the peaceful folds are made silent Because of the fierce anger of the LORD.
Jeremiah 28:9 "The prophet who prophesies of peace, when the word of the prophet comes to pass, then that prophet will be known as one whom the LORD has truly sent."
Jeremiah 29:7 'Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.'
11 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 30:5 "For thus says the LORD, 'I have heard a sound of terror, Of dread, and there is no peace.
Jeremiah 33:6 'Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them; and I will reveal to them an abundance of peace and truth.
9 'It will be to Me a name of joy, praise and glory before all the nations of the earth which will hear of all the good that I do for them, and they will fear and tremble because of all the good and all the peace that I make for it.'
Jeremiah 34:5 'You will die in peace; and as spices were burned for your fathers, the former kings who were before you, so they will burn spices for you; and they will lament for you, "Alas, lord!"' For I have spoken the word," declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 38:4 Then the officials said to the king, "Now let this man be put to death, inasmuch as he is discouraging the men of war who are left in this city and all the people, by speaking such words to them; for this man is not seeking the well-being of this people but rather their harm."
Jeremiah 43:12 "And I shall set fire to the temples of the gods of Egypt, and he will burn them and take them captive. So he will wrap himself with the land of Egypt as a shepherd wraps himself with his garment, and he will depart from there safely.
Lamentations 3:17 My soul has been rejected from peace; I have forgotten happiness.
Ezekiel 7:25 'When anguish comes, they will seek peace, but there will be none.
Ezekiel 13:10 "It is definitely because they have misled My people by saying, 'Peace!' when there is no peace. And when anyone builds a wall, behold, they plaster it over with whitewash;
16 along with the prophets of Israel who prophesy to Jerusalem, and who see visions of peace for her when there is no peace,' declares the Lord GOD.
Ezekiel 34:25 "I will make a covenant of peace with them and eliminate harmful beasts from the land so that they may live securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.
27 "Also the tree of the field will yield its fruit and the earth will yield its increase, and they will be secure on their land. Then they will know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bars of their yoke and have delivered them from the hand of those who enslaved them.
29 "I will establish for them a renowned planting place, and they will not again be victims of famine in the land, and they will not endure the insults of the nations anymore.
Ezekiel 37:26 "I will make a covenant of peace with them; it will be an everlasting covenant with them. And I will place them and multiply them, and will set My sanctuary in their midst forever.
Ezekiel 38:8 "After many days you will be summoned; in the latter years you will come into the land that is restored from the sword, whose inhabitants have been gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel which had been a continual waste; but its people were brought out from the nations, and they are living securely, all of them.
11 and you will say, 'I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, that live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates,
14 "Therefore prophesy, son of man, and say to Gog, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "On that day when My people Israel are living securely, will you not know it?
Ezekiel 39:6 "And I will send fire upon Magog and those who inhabit the coastlands in safety; and they will know that I am the LORD.
26 "They will forget their disgrace and all their treachery which they perpetrated against Me, when they live securely on their own land with no one to make them afraid.
Daniel 4:1 Nebuchadnezzar the king to all the peoples, nations, and men of every language that live in all the earth: "May your peace abound!
Daniel 6:25 Then Darius the king wrote to all the peoples, nations and men of every language who were living in all the land: "May your peace abound!
Daniel 10:19 He said, "O man of high esteem, do not be afraid. Peace be with you; take courage and be courageous!" Now as soon as he spoke to me, I received strength and said, "May my lord speak, for you have strengthened me."
Micah 2:8 "Recently My people have arisen as an enemy-- You strip the robe off the garment From unsuspecting passers-by, From those returned from war.
Micah 3:5 Thus says the LORD concerning the prophets who lead my people astray; When they have something to bite with their teeth, They cry, "Peace," But against him who puts nothing in their mouths They declare holy war.
Micah 5:5 This One will be our peace. When the Assyrian invades our land, When he tramples on our citadels, Then we will raise against him Seven shepherds and eight leaders of men.
Nahum 1:15 Behold, on the mountains the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace! Celebrate your feasts, O Judah; Pay your vows. For never again will the wicked one pass through you; He is cut off completely.
Haggai 2:9 'The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former,' says the LORD of hosts, 'and in this place I will give peace,' declares the LORD of hosts."
Zechariah 8:10 'For before those days there was no wage for man or any wage for animal; and for him who went out or came in there was no peace because of his enemies, and I set all men one against another.
12 'For there will be peace for the seed: the vine will yield its fruit, the land will yield its produce and the heavens will give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to inherit all these things.
19 "Thus says the LORD of hosts, 'The fast of the fourth, the fast of the fifth, the fast of the seventh and the fast of the tenth months will become joy, gladness, and cheerful feasts for the house of Judah; so love truth and peace.'
Zechariah 9:10 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim And the horse from Jerusalem; And the bow of war will be cut off. And He will speak peace to the nations; And His dominion will be from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.
Malachi 2:5 "My covenant with him was one of life and peace, and I gave them to him as an object of reverence; so he revered Me and stood in awe of My name.
6 "True instruction was in his mouth and unrighteousness was not found on his lips; he walked with Me in peace and uprightness, and he turned many back from iniquity.