Blessed Peace

The Sermon on the Mount would certainly be one of the most familiar teachings of Jesus. It is often referred to in various literary writings and political speeches, and those who embrace religions other than Christianity frequently quote it. I would even assume that that when an unbeliever decides to read his Bible, he probably turns to Matthew's Gospel, and before too long he is reading the Sermon on the Mount. The Sermon on the Mount opens with the “beatitudes” which give the key to understanding the sermon. In previous sessions we introduced the Sermon, and opened the first four beatitudes regarding the poor in spirit, those who mourn, those who are meek, and those who hunger for righteousness. These beatitudes are foundational to understanding the remaining beatitudes as well as the Sermon on the Mount. The first four beatitudes focus on God. With the fifth and sixth beatitude, our attention shifted from God alone to include our own circumstances and others around us.

Tonight we examine the seventh beatitude: “Blessed are the peace makers for they shall see God.” We shall examine the meaning of “peace,” and of “making peace.” Peace is not attainable in any tangible or ultimate sense short of genuine reconciliation with God.

A course notebook for this series is available at a nominal charge, on request.