Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept: The concept of "Peace through Strength" is the idea that a nation or community can ensure peace by maintaining a strong military or defense capability. This principle suggests that potential aggressors are deterred from conflict when they perceive a strong and capable opposition. While the phrase itself is not directly found in the Bible, the underlying principle can be seen in various scriptural passages that emphasize the importance of strength, preparedness, and reliance on God for peace and security. Biblical Foundations: The Bible often speaks of strength and peace, both in a physical and spiritual sense. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were frequently called to be strong and courageous, especially when facing adversaries. For instance, in Joshua 1:9 , God commands Joshua, "Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." This verse highlights the importance of strength and courage, underpinned by faith in God's presence, as a means to achieve peace and success. Divine Strength and Protection: The Psalms frequently reflect on God as a source of strength and protection, which leads to peace. Psalm 29:11 states, "The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace." Here, strength and peace are directly linked, with God as the provider of both. This suggests that true peace is found not merely in human might but in divine empowerment and blessing. Preparedness and Defense: The Bible also acknowledges the necessity of preparedness and defense. Nehemiah, when rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, exemplified this principle by arming the workers to protect against potential threats (Nehemiah 4:17-18). This practical approach to security underscores the idea that being prepared and strong can prevent conflict and ensure peace. Spiritual Warfare: In the New Testament, the concept of strength is often applied to spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-11 exhorts believers, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This passage emphasizes that spiritual strength and the armor of God are essential for standing firm against evil, thus maintaining peace in the believer's life. Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace: While strength is important, the ultimate source of peace in the Christian faith is Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6 . His life and teachings emphasize peace through reconciliation with God and others. In John 14:27 , Jesus assures His followers, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid." This peace transcends human understanding and is rooted in a relationship with Christ. Conclusion: The biblical perspective on "Peace through Strength" encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions. While human strength and preparedness are important, true peace is ultimately found in reliance on God's strength and the peace offered through Jesus Christ. The Bible encourages believers to be strong and courageous, to trust in God's protection, and to seek peace through a life aligned with His will. Subtopics Peace offerings: General Scriptures Concerning Peace offerings: Offered by David Peace offerings: Offered by Joshua Peace offerings: Offered by the Princes Peace: Blessedness of Promoting Peace: God Bestows Upon Those Who: Endure his Chastisements Peace: God Bestows Upon Those Who: Obey Him Peace: God Bestows Upon Those Who: Please Him Peace: Ministers should Exhort To Peace: Necessary to the Enjoyment of Life Peace: Pray for That of the Church Peace: Results From: Heavenly Wisdom Peace: Results From: Praying for Rulers Peace: Results From: Seeking the Peace of Those With Whom we Dwell Peace: Results From: The Government of Christ Peace: Saints should Cultivate Peace: Saints should Endeavour to Have Will all Men Peace: Saints should Follow the Things Which Make For Peace: Saints should Have, With Each Other Peace: Shall Abound in the Latter Days Peace: The Fruit of Righteousness should be Sown In Peace: The Wicked: Hypocritically Speak Spiritual Peace is Through the Atonement of Christ Spiritual Peace of Saints: Abundant Spiritual Peace of Saints: Consummated After Death Spiritual Peace of Saints: Great Spiritual Peace of Saints: Passes all Understanding Spiritual Peace of Saints: Secure Spiritual Peace: A Fruit of the Spirit Spiritual Peace: Accompanies: Acquaintance With God Spiritual Peace: Accompanies: Faith Spiritual Peace: Accompanies: Righteousness Spiritual Peace: Accompanies: Spiritual-Mindedness Spiritual Peace: Accompanies: The Love of God's Law Spiritual Peace: Announced by Angels Spiritual Peace: Bequeathed by Christ Spiritual Peace: Christ Guides Into the Way of Spiritual Peace: Christ is Our Spiritual Peace: Christ is the Lord of Spiritual Peace: Christ is the Prince of Spiritual Peace: Divine Wisdom is the Way of Spiritual Peace: Established by Covenant Spiritual Peace: Follows Upon Justification Spiritual Peace: God is the God of Spiritual Peace: God Speaks, to his Saints Spiritual Peace: Preached by Christ Spiritual Peace: Preached by Ministers Spiritual Peace: Preached: Through Christ Spiritual Peace: Promised to Returning Backsliders Spiritual Peace: Promised to Saints Spiritual Peace: Promised to The Church Spiritual Peace: Promised to The Gentiles Spiritual Peace: Promised to The Meek Spiritual Peace: Promised to Those Who Confide in God Spiritual Peace: Saints: Blessed With Spiritual Peace: Saints: Die In Spiritual Peace: Saints: Enjoy Spiritual Peace: Saints: Have in Christ Spiritual Peace: Saints: Have, With God Spiritual Peace: Saints: Kept By Spiritual Peace: Saints: Kept in Perfect Spiritual Peace: Saints: Repose In Spiritual Peace: Saints: Ruled By Spiritual Peace: Saints: Wish, to Each Other Spiritual Peace: Supports Under Trials Spiritual Peace: The Benediction of Ministers should Be Spiritual Peace: The Gospel is Good Tidings of Spiritual Peace: The Wicked are Promised, by False Teachers Spiritual Peace: The Wicked: Know not the Things of Spiritual Peace: The Wicked: Know not the Way of Spiritual Peace: The Wicked: Promise, to Themselves Spiritual Peace: The Wicked: There is None For Spiritual Peace: we should Love Related Terms |