Lesson 8: Peacemakers

In a World of Conflict

Are you feeling the weight of conflict in our world today? In families, communities and even on the global stage, it seems like arguments and disagreements are unavoidable. As followers of Christ, how are we supposed to respond? Are we called to simply keep the peace, or is there something more? The Bible tells us we are called to be peacemakers, but what does that really look like in our everyday lives?

Peacekeeping might involve avoiding difficult conversations or trying to maintain a superficial harmony. However, true peacemaking, the kind Jesus modeled, requires us to actively engage in resolving conflict, even when it's uncomfortable. It means addressing the root of the problem and working toward genuine reconciliation. This is a challenging task, especially in a world that often celebrates division and discord. But as Christians, we have the peace of God within us, the peace that surpasses all understanding, and it is from this place of inner peace that we can extend peace to others.

This doesn't mean we have to shy away from our convictions or pretend everything is fine when it's not. We can hold fast to our beliefs while still engaging in respectful dialogue and seeking common ground. Even when faced with strong disagreements, we can choose to respond with love, grace and understanding. This is the kind of peacemaking that reflects the heart of God and points others to the transformative power of the Gospel.

It's easy to get caught up in the conflicts of our world, especially in today's politically charged climate. We may find ourselves consumed by news cycles, social media debates and heated conversations that leave us feeling drained and discouraged. But our ultimate allegiance is to Christ, not to any political party or ideology. As peacemakers, we must prioritize the Gospel above all else, letting it shape our words, actions and interactions with others.

We can learn from the example of Jesus, who constantly engaged with people from all walks of life, even those who opposed him. He never shied away from conflict but always approached it with compassion, wisdom and a desire for reconciliation. In the story of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11), Jesus demonstrates true peacemaking by defending her dignity while also upholding God's law. He offers grace and forgiveness without condoning sin. This is the kind of peacemaking we are called to emulate, extending the same grace and mercy we have received to those around us.

Questions for Discussion

  1. How often do you find yourself engaging in conflict, either directly or indirectly? What are your typical responses to conflict?

  2. How does the Bible define peacemaking? What specific examples of peacemakers can you identify in Scripture?

  3. What is the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking? Which approach is more aligned with Christ's teachings?

  4. How does the Gospel empower us to be peacemakers? What specific aspects of the Gospel can guide our interactions with others?

  5. How can we develop ability to better understand and respond to the emotions of others, especially in conflict situations?

  6. What practical steps can you take to become a more effective peacemaker in your daily life?

  7. How does social media impact our ability to engage in constructive dialogue and peacemaking? What can we do to use social media for good?

  8. How can we approach difficult conversations with grace and respect, even when there is strong disagreement?

  9. What role does forgiveness play in the process of peacemaking? How can we practice forgiveness, even when it's difficult?

  10. How can peacemaking contribute to a more just and equitable society? What impact can individual peacemakers have on their communities and the world?