1. Jesus began His great Sermon on the Mount by giving "the Beatitudes" (Matthew 5:3-12). 2. In our lesson we are concentrating on the 7th Beatitude (Matthew 5:9). 3. To help us appreciate the seriousness of this Beatitude, let us first show . . .
Discussion:
I. HOW "PEACE" AND "CONFLICT" ARE CONTRASTED IN THE BIBLE
A. We learn from Psalm 133 how God feels about "peace." B. We learn from Proverbs 6:16-19 how God feels about "conflict." C. When we consider this contrast, perhaps we can more fully appreciate why . . .
II. THE NEW TESTAMENT REPEATEDLY TEACHES US 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 look at . . .
III. TWO BIBLE CHARACTERS WHO WERE PEACEMAKERS
A. Abraham was a peacemaker (Genesis 13:7-9). B. Isaac was a peacemaker (Genesis 26:17-22).
IV. THE NEW TESTAMENT CONTAINS SOME SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS THAT WILL HELP US TO BE PEACEMAKERS
A. Ephesians 4:1-3 B. Philippians 2:1-4 C. Colossians 3:12-13 D. James 3:13-18 E. 1 Peter 3:10-11
Conclusion:
1. Being a peacemaker is not always easy -- it can sometimes be quite challenging, especially in our world today. 2. However, those who make peace will receive a great blessing -- "they shall be called the children of God."
