1. Jesus began His Sermon on the Mount by giving what we commonly call "the Beatitudes" (Matthew 5:3-12). 2. In these Beatitudes, Jesus showed His followers how to receive some very special spiritual blessings. 3. This evening we are concentrating on the 7th Beatitude that Jesus gave in Matthew 5:9 - "Blessed are the peacemakers." 4. To help us appreciate the seriousness of this Beatitude, let us first consider God's feelings.
Discussion:
I. GOD LOVES "PEACE," AND HE HATES "CONFLICT"
A. In Psalm 133 David showed how God feels about "peace." B. In Proverbs 6:16-19 Solomon showed how God feels about "conflict." C. When we understand how God feels about "peace" and "conflict," perhaps we can more fully appreciate why . . .
II. CHRISTIANS ARE REPEATEDLY TAUGHT TO PURSUE "PEACE"
A. Romans 12:18 B. Romans 14:19 C. 1 Thessalonians 5:13b D. Hebrews 12:14 E. To help us understand what is involved in pursuing peace, let us consider . . .
III. THREE PEACEMAKERS IN THE BIBLE
A. According to Genesis 13:7-9, Abraham was a peacemaker. B. Isaac, Abraham's son, was also a peacemaker (Genesis 26:17-22). C. Jesus was "The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). 1. He gives peace to His followers (John 14:27; 16:33). 2. We must also consider His teaching in Matthew 10:32-38.
IV. THE NEW TESTAMENT CONTAINS SOME SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR PEACEMAKERS
A. Ephesians 4:1-3 ["endeavor"] B. Philippians 2:1-4 [being considerate of others] C. Colossians 3:12-13 [Christ is our example] D. James 3:13-18 [pursue the right kind of wisdom] E. 1 Peter 3:10-11 [controlling the tongue]
Conclusion:
1. Being a peacemaker is not always easy. 2. Being a peacemaker can sometimes be quite challenging, especially in the world we live in today. 3. However, those who make peace will receive a great blessing -- "they shall be called the children of God." 4. We learn how to become children of God in Galatians 3:26-27.
