EXPOSITIONS OF THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT – X
“Blessed are the peacemakers”
Matthew 5:1-12 August 5, 2007
INTRODUCTION
The Lord Jesus here is not speaking about “peace” as in “the absence of war.” He is speaking theologically and doctrinally. The 7th Beatitude refers to a radical change of the human heart by the operation of the Holy Spirit. Our Lord is speaking of the “peace of God that passes all human understanding,” the peace that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
I. THE “SHALOM” OF GOD
The “shalom” of God brings a cessation of the strife between God and man. Eph. 2:14-16. Col. 1:19-23. Rom. 5:10. II Cor. 5:18-20. Shalom=God’s blessings for a complete, whole life. “Peacemaker” is an active, dynamic word referring to one who pursues peace, the peace which only God can give.
II. WHAT IS A PEACEMAKER?
A peacemaker is not only one who has and understands the peace of God, but one who desires to see others come to know that same peace, understanding that the problem exists in the human heart. Ezekiel 13:10. Jeremiah 6:14 & 17:9. A peace maker is one who is an honest person, willing to risk pain by waging peace. Eph. 4. Rom. 12 & 14. James 3:17-18. Peacemakers also seek to make peace within the Body of Christ. Col. 3:15.
III. THE EXAMPLE OF THE PRINCE OF PEACE.
Col. 1:19-23. The Lord Jesus Christ is the source of peace among people. Eph. 2:13-17. John 14:27. Philippians 2:5-11. It costs to be a peacemaker.
IV. A RADICAL CALL
Being a peacemaker involves a radical change of the human heart.
V. ARE WE PEACEMAKERS?
Peacemakers promote the peace and purity of the Church. Do you? Do you know the peace of God that passes human understanding? Is it evident in your life?
SOME OF THE SOURCES USED FOR THIS STUDY:
Ian M. Duguid, HERO OF HEROES. Seeing Christ in the Beatitudes.
Thomas Watson, THE BEATITUDES.
John MacArthur, THE ONLY WAY TO HAPPINESS.
Terry L. Johnson, WHEN GRACE TRANSFORMS.
Daniel M. Doriani, THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
