Matthew 5:9

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Matthew 5:9 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches His disciples and the crowds about the principles of the kingdom of God. In the preceding Beatitudes, Jesus describes the qualities of those who are blessed and approved by God. Here, He identifies peacemakers as a specific group who receive His blessing.

Meaning

Jesus begins by saying, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” To be blessed means to experience true happiness and favour from God, a state of well-being that comes from being in a right relationship with Him. Peacemakers are those who actively pursue peace, reconcile conflicts, and promote harmony among individuals and communities. They do not merely avoid conflict but engage in resolving it.

Jesus declares that peacemakers “shall be called the children of God.” This statement highlights their identity and relationship with God. By engaging in the work of peace, they demonstrate their likeness to God, who is the ultimate source of peace. They are recognised as God’s children, representing His character and values.

Biblical connections

The title “children of God” implies that God is the ultimate peacemaker. Throughout Scripture, God reveals Himself as a God of peace, desiring reconciliation and harmony among His creation. The Greek word translated “peacemaker” appears in only one other place in the New Testament in a related form: Colossians 1:20, which speaks of Christ making peace through the blood of His cross, reconciling all things to Himself. This connection shows that Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker, and believers who carry the message of peace to others are peacemakers in His pattern.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to emulate His example and actively work towards peace in our relationships and communities. Peacemakers play a vital role in healing divisions, resolving conflicts, and fostering unity. Their actions have a transformative impact on individuals and society, creating an environment conducive to spiritual growth and mutual understanding. By promoting peace, they contribute to the advancement of God’s kingdom on earth.

Peacemaking extends beyond the absence of conflict. It involves addressing the root causes of discord, promoting justice, and advocating for righteousness. Peacemakers seek to restore broken relationships, mediate disputes, and promote reconciliation in all aspects of life.

Application

As believers, we are called to be active peacemakers, both in our personal lives and in the world around us. This involves cultivating a spirit of forgiveness, pursuing reconciliation, and seeking opportunities to bridge divides. It may require humility, patience, and courage to address conflicts and promote understanding.

• Matthew 5:9 challenges us to embody the qualities of peacemakers in our daily lives. By doing so, we reflect the character of God and fulfil our calling as His children. Let us strive to be agents of peace in a world often characterised by strife, knowing that our efforts contribute to the work of God’s kingdom.