Topical Bible: Peace is a Bond of Union

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Introduction

The concept of peace as a bond of union is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between God and humanity, as well as among individuals within the community of believers. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound sense of wholeness and unity that reflects the divine order.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently underscores the importance of peace as a divine gift and a vital component of Christian life. In Ephesians 4:3, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to be "diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" . Here, peace is portrayed as a binding force that maintains the unity of the Spirit within the body of Christ.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. It is a state of being that God desires for His creation. The Aaronic blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 concludes with a prayer for peace: "The LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace" . This peace is a reflection of God's covenantal relationship with His people, Israel, and serves as a foundation for communal and individual well-being.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of peace through Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6. In John 14:27, Jesus assures His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives" . This peace is distinct from worldly peace, as it is rooted in the reconciliation between God and humanity achieved through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection.

Peace Among Believers

The early Christian community was characterized by a commitment to peace as a bond of union. In Colossians 3:15, Paul instructs, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful" . This peace is both a calling and a guiding principle for believers, fostering unity and gratitude within the church.

Peace and Reconciliation

Peace as a bond of union also extends to the ministry of reconciliation. In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, Paul explains that God "reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation" . Believers are called to be ambassadors of peace, promoting reconciliation and unity in a divided world.

Practical Implications

The pursuit of peace requires active effort and intentionality. Romans 12:18 advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone" . This involves humility, forgiveness, and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of others over personal grievances. Peace as a bond of union is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, manifesting in the lives of those who follow Christ.

Conclusion

While the entry does not include a formal conclusion, it is evident that peace as a bond of union is a central theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's desire for harmony and unity among His people. Through the teachings of Scripture, believers are called to embody this peace in their relationships and communities, serving as a testament to the reconciling work of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ephesians 4:3
Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

"And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because of Sin; but the ...
... is the bond of union between God and us: Christ is the bond of union with God, but
the Spirit is the bond of union with Christ. Christ is the peace between God ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xxvi and if christ.htm

The Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace.
... The Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace. The glorious universe around,. ...
Harmoniously unite. In one fraternal bond of love,. ... Lord, may our union form a part. ...
/.../montgomery/sacred poems and hymns/hymn vii the unity of.htm

As Christ is the Mediator of Life, So the Devil is the Mediator of ...
... 13. Therein is our true peace and firm bond of union with our Creator, that we should
be purified and reconciled through the Mediator of life, as we had been ...
/.../augustine/on the holy trinity/chapter 10 as christ is the.htm

How the Promise of an Hundredfold in this Life is Made to those ...
... is compared to those affections where the bond of union is ... than that which arises
from the union of the ... of the stress of anxiety and trouble, peace and freedom ...
/.../cassian/the conferences of john cassian/chapter xxvi how the promise.htm

"But Ye have Received the Spirit of Adoption, Whereby we Cry, Abba ...
... Whoever, in the apprehension of their own enmity and distance from God, receive
Christ Jesus, offered as the peace, the bond of union between the two families ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xxxviii but ye have.htm

Unity of virtue and Piety.
... his character, the mere contemplation of which brings purity, brightness, peace,
and bliss ... God, why hast thou forsaken me?"[36]36 the bond of union was not ...
/.../schaff/the person of christ/unity of virtue and piety.htm

Sunday School Union Jubilee, 1853
... Sunday School Union Jubilee, 1853. The grace of Jesus Christ our Lord,. The Father's
love with sweet accord,. The Holy Ghost's communion be. Our bond of peace and ...
/.../montgomery/sacred poems and hymns/hymn ccclii sunday school union.htm

CM * the New Commandment.
... 2 O bond of union, strong and deep! O bond of perfect peace! Not even the lifted
cross can harm, If we but hold to this. 3 Then, Jesus, be thy spirit ours! ...
/.../various/book of hymns for public and private devotion/564 c m the.htm

"If So be that the Spirit of God Dwell in You. Now if any Man have ...
... ground of the marriage is that near bond of union ... the nearest union conceivable is
the union of spirits ... the entertaining of any sin, and making peace with any ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xxv if so be.htm

Disciples of Christ; Sometimes Called Campbellites, or Reformers.
... of God, and obedience to the commandments of Jesus, are their bond of union, and
not ... They look for unity of spirit and the bonds of peace in the practical ...
/.../hayward/the book of religions/disciples of christ sometimes called.htm