The Way of Peace and Nonresistance

 

The story of human history is darkened by conflicts, strife, and bloodshed caused by jealousy, anger, and hatred. Unresolved conflicts result in broken relationships and emotional scars. Many people live with fear and mistrust. Many become bitter because of their circumstances or the things they have suffered.

Love resolves conflicts and builds bridges instead of walls. It helps to avoid clashes. “A soft answer turneth away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). To be filled with the love of Jesus will empower us to forgive those who have hurt us and to love our enemies.

Jesus Taught Peace through Love and Nonresistance

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught the way of peace. No longer is it an “eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth” (Matthew 5:38). Rather, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

Jesus Lived What He Taught

Jesus displayed remarkable peace and grace in His unfair trial and crucifixion. In Matthew 27:11-14, it is recorded how Jesus was falsely accused and insulted, and how He quietly endured it. As He hung dying on the cross He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

The Early Church Lived and Taught the Way of Peace

Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was a devoted believer in Jesus. He openly spoke of the peaceful kingdom that Jesus established. The religious leaders accused him of blasphemy and in their anger cast him out of the city. As he was being stoned to death, he kept his integrity and without retaliation demonstrated the way of peace and forgiveness. Acts 7:60 records, “And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep [in death].”

Complete text of: The Way of Peace and Nonresistance

The Apostle Paul writes, “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21).

The Apostle Peter encourages us to be like Jesus, “Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself unto him that judgeth righteously” (1 Peter 2:23). (See also 1 Corinthians 4:12-13)

How is it Possible to Live the Way of Peace?

Determination alone is not enough to live the principle of peace and nonresistance. It is an inborn experience of conversion to Jesus Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). When Christ dwells in the heart, we experience the “peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). The disciple of Christ will endeavor to practice peace in every area of life. There is power to live it because the Prince of Peace Himself dwells within the heart.

In the Home

Peace is a fruit of true love, and the home is an important place to practice the way of peace. Husbands and wives need open communication. Gracious understanding and daily forgiveness will help resolve differences. Children find security as parents submit to God and His order of love in the home. Children learn by example the grace of sharing and submission, and consistent child nurture will promote a peaceful home atmosphere. Instead of quarrelling, pouting, or being silently resistant, each family member should practice peace. (Matthew 5:9, Ephesians 4:31-32)

For those who find themselves in marriage difficulties, there is hope in the way of peace. Direction can be found in the Word of God and in consultation with a faithful Christian pastor or counselor. The power of prayer and resignation to God will work miracles. Troubled marriages can be revived and flourish by God's grace.

In the Community

A Christian will be open, reasonable, and kind regardless of his neighbor's attitude. Disputes can be resolved many times through surrender and peaceful negotiation. There are many opportunities to practice the way of peace in our business relationships. Financial discrepancies are often a cause of disagreements. A Christian places his faith in God and is willing to suffer loss in order to maintain peace. As an employee, he does not go on strike or participate in labor unions because of their forceful nature. Instead of using the law to force payment, the Christian will either work out a peaceful resolution or forgive the debt.

When a Christian faces a dispute, an unselfish, peaceable attitude often brings about a settlement. “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18). Sometimes a Christian is served notice of a lawsuit even though every effort has been made to resolve the issue. Even if the Christian must unfairly suffer loss, a loving attitude will usually give a clear testimony to all. Although it is sometimes necessary to obtain legal counsel, a peaceable Christian will not retain an attorney to enforce justice.

In Issues of Abuse

Individuals can be physically or emotionally abused by those around them. Innocent children become victims of physical or sexual abuse. Relationships can be severely damaged by verbal abuse. The shame and emotional hurt often go unnoticed or are ignored by those around them, and the victim feels powerless to seek help and healing.

Jesus Himself suffered verbal and physical abuse. He willingly forgave, committing Himself to God. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus taught us to love and pray for those who despitefully use us. The Psalmist encourages reliance upon God when he says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Those who are abused and acknowledge their damage and pain can come to forgiveness and rest by looking in hope to the Saviour. Committing oneself to God is important and necessary. Reaching out to someone who is trusted and understanding can also be very helpful. With God, there is hope of restoration and recovery.

In Matters of Church and State

The Bible teaches the separation of church and state as well as the doctrine of nonresistance. The Christian belongs to a spiritual kingdom and ministers to the needs of mankind. It is the responsibility of the state to maintain law and order in society. (John 18:36) The Christian is nonresistant and cannot take part in warfare in any form, nor can he support the cause of war. He does not seek public office, vote in political elections, or serve on a jury. Rather, he will seek to contribute to the cause of peace and alleviate suffering in the world around him. This attitude is not one of disloyalty or disrespect to our country. We are to respect and honor those in authority, willingly pay taxes, and obey the laws of the land inasmuch as they do not conflict with the Word of God. (Romans 13:1-7)

In the Church Brotherhood

When the lamb-like Spirit of Christ prevails in the brotherhood, there is…

  • forgiveness rather than holding a grudge.
  • a word that ministers kindness to the hearer rather than gossip and evil speaking.
  • mutual support and care rather than jealousy and envy.
  • edifying discussion rather than heated arguments.
  • charity and peacemaking rather than hatred and backbiting.
  • reconciliation and restoration rather than divisions and schisms.

The beautiful blessing in 2 Thessalonians 3:16 sums it all up: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.”

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What Must I Do to be Saved?

Everyone should ask themselves the important question, “What must I do to be saved?” Many people believe they are saved, yet Jesus said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). To be saved, it is necessary to believe that Christ will forgive our sins. Then we must repent of them, live a holy life, and love one another. Because there are many teachings advanced by a multitude of religions, the question may well be asked, “What really is the truth?”

What Is Meant by Being Born Again?

Many people try to serve the Lord without first experiencing the new birth, but are they saved? Jesus said, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). When Jesus left this world, He sent the Holy Spirit. “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:8). The Holy Spirit will bring man to an awareness of sinfulness. When man begins to feel the burden of his sins, he will feel condemned in his heart. If he humbles himself and through faith in Jesus cries out to God with all his heart, then God will forgive him. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19). Repenting of sins includes being sorry for them, forsaking them, and turning to a new way of life. When this happens, the Holy Spirit enters the heart and one is born again. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Who Needs This New Birth?

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the prophet Isaiah foretold the suffering of our Lord Jesus for the sins of mankind. He said, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6). Jesus clearly told Nicodemus, a seeker of the truth, that one cannot see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. This spiritual birth is the work of the Holy Spirit. All who want to be saved need to experience this birth.

All who are weary and tired of their burden of sin are invited to come to Jesus and find forgiveness. Jesus invites: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Jesus suffered, shed his blood, and died on the cross “for our sins: and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).

Repentance

Complete text of: What Must I Do to be Saved?

Repentance, confession, and restitution are all part of coming to the Lord Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). If we have wronged our fellow man, we should confess and acknowledge our sins, and make restitution where needed. “And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold” (Luke 19:8).

Faith and Obedience

Once we have experienced the new birth, we endeavor to live faithful Christian lives. Jesus instructs his followers; “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). We are also admonished to keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27). “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world” (1 John 2:15-16).

The Christian will be able to accomplish this by following the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will give direction and the strength to live a godly life. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). The results of this effort will bring about a changed heart; a life of faith that will produce obedience. “By works was faith made perfect” (James 2:22). The Christian is now living for Jesus instead of living for himself.

The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit inspires a deep love in the Christian’s heart. He will seek the fellowship of other born-again Christians. The unity of this fellowship encourages an open-hearted sharing with one another. This is a support to the Christian and helps him to grow spiritually.

When we are born again, our names are written in the book of life. “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” (Revelation 20:15). Our sins are forgiven, and we experience joy and peace in our hearts. Satan will try to rob us of this gift of salvation by tempting us to disobey, but God has promised to protect and deliver us if we are faithful. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:1). “Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come” (1 Timothy 4:8).

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Listen! Who is That Calling You?-Is it an Enemy or a Friend?

The listening lamb

Gospel of John 10:1-18

Have you ever heard someone calling your name and you did not know where the voice was coming from? Or maybe you could hardly hear the voice, because there was too much noise all around.

Listen, a voice is calling you. You!

Complete text of: Listen! Who is That Calling You?-Is it an Enemy or a Friend?

Who are you? What is your name? Where did you come from? Where do you live? Where are you going?

You know the name of your village. Maybe you have never been anywhere else. But you know that your village is part of a big country, and the countries are all part of the big world.

The Bible

It was almost 6,000 years ago when the world was made. It was made by God. God has a book called the Bible, which tells how He made the world and how He made the first man and woman. God made man in his own likeness.

Ever since then children have been born. Ever since then people have died. Thousands and thousands of them have been born and have died.

You were born to your father and mother. But it is really God who made you. He made everything. Have you ever thought of how wonderfully God made everything and how He made you?

Your parents gave you a name. God knows your name. He knows every name, no matter what language it is. He knows everything.

Because God made us, He knows all about us. He loves us because we belong to Him. He is our Father in heaven, and He cares for us more than our own fathers and mothers do.

God

God has always been. He lives forever. So when He put his breath into us, it made us live forever, too. No, not our bodies, for they die, but the soul inside us lives forever.

Do you know God? Maybe you ask, “Who is God? Where is He?”

Do you really want to know? Yes, you do. Deep inside you want to know.

You have never seen God, have you? No, but that doesn’t mean He isn’t there.

There is only one God. There is no room for any other, because the one who is really, really God fills heaven and earth. He is everywhere at the same time.

God’s home is heaven, that beautiful place up there, but He also lives in the hearts of people who obey his voice.

How do I learn to know God? Is that the question you are asking? God has a wonderful plan to show us how.

God sent his only begotten Son, Jesus, down from heaven to show people who He is and what He is like. God and Jesus are one.

By a miracle, God’s Son was born as a baby and grew up to be a man. Then for three years, Jesus told the people of the love of God, his Father. He told them that God is holy and cannot bear to see sin.

Then God made a way for us to be saved from our sins. He let his Son Jesus be nailed to a cross by wicked men. He laid down his life—so great was his love!

He was the sacrifice that can pay for the sins of the whole world—every sin you have ever done, every sin of every boy, or girl, man, or woman.

Did Jesus stay on the cross? Did Jesus stay in the tomb? No, after three days He arose victorious. Then He went back to heaven and is waiting till God says the world shall come to an end. Then He will be the righteous Judge of all people.

Do you have the Gospel of John? Read chapter 10. John has written what Jesus told the people. What He said is still for us today. Jesus said He was the Good Shepherd and gave his life for the sheep. We are the sheep. The ones that are his sheep know his voice. He calls them by name. A stranger they will not follow.

The Stranger, That Other Voice

Who is that stranger, the one from whom we shall flee? Oh, he is a thief! He cares nothing for the sheep. He is a liar. There is no truth in him. He is the devil. He is our enemy, Satan.

But first, he is the enemy of God. He was once a good angel with God in heaven. But he became proud and lifted himself up against God. He fought against God and many angels joined him. God won, because He has all power. So He cast Satan and all his followers out of heaven. Satan hates God for this.

Because he can never get close to God again, he pours his anger on God’s creatures, the people of the world. Because he sinned, he tries to entice everyone to sin. Never again will sin enter heaven.

There is another place, the place that God made for the devil and his angels. It is hell. Hell is a place of torment. It is a burning fire that will never go out. It is the place where the devil and his followers will be punished forever. It is an awful place where God will have to send us if we choose to listen to Satan’s voice.

Satan does not want us to think about hell. He does not want us to think about God. That is why he is trying to get our attention away from God. Satan tries to make us listen to his voice.

Have you heard that other voice inside you, the voice of the stranger?

Sometimes he makes us believe he has good things to offer. Sometimes he makes us think: “I am better than others. I am important. Me first. I’ll get even. I have to fight for my rights. It’s alright to steal, just so I don’t get caught. Everybody tells lies, so I can, too. Dirty thoughts are not so bad—nobody knows what I’m thinking. Dirty words—they’re good for a laugh.”

And at other times, have you been so discouraged that you were tempted to think, “I’m no good, why keep on living?”

These are all the voice of the devil. He is a liar—that is why he tries to make us liars. He is a thief—that is why he wants to make us steal. He is a murderer—that is why he tries to make us hate others.

When you listen to that voice, how does it make you feel? Does it make you feel good inside? Oh, no, it makes you unhappy. It makes you want to hide. That is just like Satan is. He likes to do things in the dark.

Jesus, the Shepherd’s Voice

Do you know Jesus, the Good Shepherd? Would you like to be his sheep? Would you like to know his voice?

Yes you can; but first you must not listen to that other voice anymore.

Now, when you are quiet, you will hear the gentle voice of Jesus calling you to give your whole life to Him. You will hear Him telling you to be sorry for all your sins and to confess them.

Maybe, sometime when you were very still, you were thinking, “What shall I do with all my troubles and burdens? I wish I could be good. I wish I would be at a place where I’d never be hungry or sick anymore. What will happen to me when I die?”

And maybe you have had many more thoughts. That is the voice of Jesus calling you.

Do you sometimes feel sad when you don’t even know why? Or do you feel lonesome when you are not even alone? It could be because you are lonesome for God, the One who made you and loves you. He is the Shepherd calling for his lost sheep. He is calling and calling, and seeking and seeking you!

When you hear the Shepherd’s voice, answer Him. Tell Him you are sorry for your sins. Tell Him just how you feel, and ask Him to save you. That is praying.

Have you ever prayed to the God of heaven? Do it now. He will hear you and understand you. He will give you the peace you are longing for.

Wouldn’t you like to be his sheep and know his voice? He wants to be your friend. He will take away your burden of sin. You will feel happy inside. You will be loving and kind like He is. He will help you to overcome your fears.

Even if others would mock you for being a Christian, you know that Jesus will take care of you. Even if the stranger would tempt you again, you must trust Jesus to help you overcome.

When you are safe in the Shepherd’s loving arms, you know that at the end He will take you to his wonderful, happy home with God to live with Him forever!

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