Peace on Earth

For many in the religious world, the Christmas holiday is a time to focus on the birth of Jesus. The Bible is silent about Christians celebrating this, but it was a praiseworthy event when it happened. In our text, angels praised God after Jesus’ birth. In their praise, they talked about peace on earth. What does this mean? Unfortunately, many do not have a complete picture of this in mind.

Not Free from Tribulation or Conflict

• Many people like the idea of “peace on earth” – but what they have in mind is not the same thing the angels spoke about
• Despite the peace that Jesus brought, we still face tribulation (John 16:33) – we have peace in Him, but tribulation in the world
• Despite the peace He brought, we still face conflict (Matthew 10:34-36) – Jesus said He brought a sword, not peace; clearly, we must properly define what “peace” means

State of Peace with God

• This peace was not for everyone – it exists “among men with whom He is pleased”; something happened that resulted in man not enjoying peace with God
• Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2) – sin was introduced in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3); all have sinned (Romans 3:23)
• Jesus came as the mediator to bring God and man together (1 Timothy 2:5) – this was done through His death on the cross (Romans 5:8-11); we were helpless without this (Romans 5:6)

This Peace Exists in His Kingdom

• Remember, Jesus said that tribulation existed in the world (John 16:33) – yet He came to establish a kingdom that would endure forever (Daniel 2:44)
• Isaiah prophesied that peace would exist in the Lord’s kingdom (Isaiah 2:2-4) – it would be available to people from every nation (cf. Acts 10:34-35)
• Jesus reconciled both Jews and Gentiles in one body (Ephesians 2:14-16) – without Him, we would have no hope (Ephesians 2:12); through Him, we have access to the Father (Ephesians 2:17-18)

We Take This Peace into Battle

• Remember how Jesus said He did not come to bring peace but a sword (Matthew 10:34) – this may seem strange, but He was making a distinction between those on His side and those who are not
• There is a great battle going on around us – this is a spiritual conflict (2 Corinthians 10:3-4); we prepare for this by putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17)
• Part of our armor is “the preparation of the gospel of peace” (Ephesians 6:15) – Jesus reconciled us to Him; we are trying to reconcile others to Him (2 Corinthians 5:18-20; cf. 10:5)

Conclusion

• Jesus came to bring peace on earth – through His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead
• However, not everyone will enjoy the peace He offers – it is only available in His kingdom
• His kingdom is open to all – but we must respond to the gospel of peace and become part of His kingdom
• This will not eliminate every conflict or trial in life – but it provides us with hope for eternity