Biblical peace, or shalom, carries a far deeper meaning than the absence of conflict or turmoil. In Scripture, peace refers to wholeness, harmony, and the complete restoration of a right relationship with God. It is not merely a lack of tension but the presence of something far greater: the fullness of God’s blessing, order, and favour. Advent reminds us that this true peace is made possible only through the coming of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
The world often defines peace as a fragile calm-freedom from trouble or human conflict-but this is temporary and incomplete. Biblical peace, by contrast, is rooted in reconciliation with God. Without this peace, our relationship with God remains broken because of sin, and we stand under His righteous judgment. Paul makes this clear: “You were dead in your transgressions and sins…by nature deserving of wrath” (Ephesians 2:1-3). Without God’s peace, we are bound to live under the weight of sin, separated from Him both now and for eternity. It is to face His righteous judgment, unable to bridge the divide on our own. This is why the coming of Christ is not just good news but necessary news. J.C. Ryle powerfully reminds us, “There can be no true peace until we are at peace with God.”
Through Jesus Christ, God offers us a peace that transcends our circumstances and changes our very standing before Him. Paul writes, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). This peace is not earned but freely given through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. As Isaiah proclaims, “The punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). Jesus took on the wrath we deserved so that we could receive reconciliation and restoration with the Father.
This Advent, let us reflect on the weight of peace with God – a peace that rescues us from wrath and restores us to life in Him. As Paul declares, “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). Without Him, we remain lost, but through Him, we are redeemed, reconciled, and in right standing with the Father. May we rejoice in the Prince of Peace and share this life-giving hope with a world still longing for reconciliation.
Blessings
Nico