Prince of Peace: Peace between the Jews and Gentiles

The Prince of Peace brought a way of rescue— a way for people to have peace with God through the forgiveness of our sin. But there was another type of peace needed. 

This is demonstrated throughout the New Testament, as we see division and discord between the Jews and the Gentiles (non-Jews). In Acts 10, we get a glimpse into the mindset of Jews towards Gentiles, as God instructs Peter to no longer refer to the Gentiles as “unclean” (vs. 28). The Prince of Peace remedies the separation and hostility between the Jews and Gentiles—

Ephesians 2:14-18 | For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us.

Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, salvation was offered not only to the Jews, but to people from all nations, just as it was foretold—

Isaiah 49:6 | He says, “You will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. I will make you a light to the Gentiles, and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”

After Jesus’ death on the cross, God’s followers are instructed over and over again to have peace with others. In fact, we are told to do all we can to live at peace with everyone— 

Hebrews 12:14a | Work at living in peace with everyone…

We are instructed to “work” at it because living at peace with others— believers and unbelievers— is not easy! 

Working for peace means we lay down our own opinions, desire to be right, or what we deserve for the sake of others. Jesus says His followers“give up their own way and do what He would do instead (Luke 9:23). In Philippians 2, we see what Jesus would do— it shows how He Jesus laid down His life and put others first. We are instructed to have that same attitude as part of maintaining unity with other believers and fulfilling our purpose (building His kingdom) (vs 1-11).

Working at peace also means that we that we handle disagreements with other believers quickly and Biblically (Matthew 18:15-20) so that we aren’t tempted to hate, be bitter, to gossip, or to “sow discord” among believers, which the Lord hates (Proverbs 6:16-19).

If the you have received the gift of peace granted by making the Prince of Peace Lord of your life, you are instructed to live in peace. 

Colossians 3:15 | And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Work at that peace and maintain unity among the body of Christ. When we do, God can use our efforts to draw others to Himself.

• Why wasn’t there peace between the Jews and Gentiles?

• Who do you struggle to have peace with? Why?

• Why is peace important

  • With God’s followers?

  • With unbelievers?