Reflections and New Beginnings: Farewell to 2024, Welcome to 2025

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As the curtain falls on 2024, we find ourselves at a crossroads where reflection and anticipation intersect. This time of year offers a unique opportunity to pause, look back at the journey we’ve traversed, and chart the course for the year ahead. As Christians, we are reminded to ground our reflections and plans in the Word of God, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all things.

The Year That Was: A Retrospective on 2024

2024 brought with it a mix of triumphs, challenges, and moments of profound growth. Through it all, we are reminded of the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV): “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” This verse encourages us to see both the highs and lows as part of God’s divine plan, shaping us into vessels for His glory.

Across the globe, we witnessed significant breakthroughs in technology, science, and sustainability—advances that echo the call in Genesis 1:28 (KJV) to be stewards of the earth. Yet, as we celebrated progress, we were also reminded of our dependence on God’s provision and mercy.

For many, 2024 was a year of personal milestones. Whether achieving professional goals, nurturing relationships, or overcoming challenges, the faithfulness of God was evident. As Psalm 37:23 (KJV) assures us, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.”

Looking Ahead: What Will 2025 Bring?

The dawn of 2025 carries with it a sense of possibility and renewal. Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) offers timeless wisdom as we step into the unknown: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” This new year is an opportunity to surrender our plans to God, trusting Him to lead us.

Key themes that may shape the coming year include:

  • Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: As we continue to care for God’s creation, let us remember Psalm 24:1 (KJV): “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.”
  • Technological Innovation: While advancements in technology bring new possibilities, we must seek wisdom and discernment, echoing James 1:5 (KJV): “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
  • Human Connection and Well-Being: As society navigates modern complexities, the words of Philippians 2:4 (KJV) remind us, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

Resolutions and Intentions

The beginning of a new year is often accompanied by resolutions. Colossians 3:23 (KJV) encourages us: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Whether it’s committing to healthier habits, pursuing a passion project, or dedicating time to ministry, 2025 is a blank slate waiting to be filled with God’s purpose.

Let us also resolve to be kinder and more compassionate. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) exhorts us: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

Gratitude for the Past, Hope for the Future

In saying goodbye to 2024, let us heed the call of 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV): “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Gratitude transforms even the most difficult times into stepping stones for spiritual growth.

As we welcome 2025, let hope guide our steps. Hebrews 11:1 (KJV) reminds us: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” With faith and trust in God, we can embrace the unknown with courage and optimism, knowing that He holds the future.

Here’s to a remarkable 2025, grounded in faith and guided by His Word!

Have a Great New Year, May the Lord Bless you and Keep You.

Philip Berry Thd

How to know the will of God for your Life

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part 4 of 5

Listen to the Holy Spirit:

Many Christians believe that the Holy Spirit dwells within believers and guides them. Pay attention to your conscience, inner promptings, and the peace that comes from aligning with God’s will.

Listening to the Holy Spirit involves being in tune to the guidance, prompting, and conviction of the Holy Spirit within the believer’s heart and mind. Here are some Scripture reference to help clarify.

John 16:13: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

Romans 8:14: “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”

Galatians 5:16: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

Galatians 5:25: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

1 Corinthians 2:10-12: “But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.”

Ephesians 4:30: “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

1 Thessalonians 5:19: “Quench not the Spirit.”

These verses highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding, leading, and empowering believers. Listening to the Holy Spirit involves cultivating a sensitivity to His voice through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and obedience to His promptings. It requires surrendering one’s will to the leading of the Spirit and being open to His direction in all aspects of life.

Be Open and Flexible:

Sometimes God’s will may not be immediately clear, and it may require patience and openness to discern. Be willing to surrender your own desires and plans to God’s leading, even if it takes you in unexpected directions.

The concept of being open and flexible, especially in the context of seeking God’s will, involves a willingness to yield to God’s plans and purposes even when they may differ from our own desires or expectations. Here are some Scripture references from the (KJV) that illustrate this idea:

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Romans 12:2: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

James 4:13-15: “Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”

Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

Being open and flexible means surrendering our own plans and desires to God’s will, trusting that His ways are higher and better than ours. It involves acknowledging God’s sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life, including decision-making, relationships, and future plans. By being open and flexible, we position ourselves to receive the blessings and fulfillment that come from aligning our lives with God’s purposes.

Phil Berry TH.D D.D

Seek Wise Counsel: Proverbs 11:14 says,

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“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

3 0f 5 How to know the will of God for your life

 Seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or wise friends who can provide biblical insight and perspective. The principle of seeking wise counsel is emphasized throughout the Bible as a valuable source of guidance and wisdom. Here are a few key verses from the (KJV) that underscore the importance of seeking counsel:

Proverbs 11:14:

“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

Proverbs 15:22:

“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.”

Proverbs 12:15:

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”

Proverbs 24:6:

“For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

Proverbs 19:20:

“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.”

Proverbs 20:18:

“Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.”

Psalm 1:1-2:

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”

These verses highlight the wisdom and safety that come from seeking counsel from those who are wise, knowledgeable, and grounded in God’s principles.

Seeking wise counsel involves humility, openness to input from others, and discernment in choosing advisors who align with biblical values and principles. It’s an essential aspect of decision-making and seeking God’s will in our lives.

Seeking godly counsel is a vital aspect of decision-making and discerning God’s will for your life. Here are some additional insights on the importance and characteristics of godly counsel:

1. Wisdom and Discernment: Godly counsel comes from individuals who are wise and discerning, possessing a deep understanding of God’s Word and His ways. Look for advisors who demonstrate spiritual maturity, integrity, and a track record of making decisions aligned with biblical principles.

2. Spiritual Alignment: Seek counsel from individuals who share your commitment to following Christ and living according to His teachings. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide guidance rooted in faith and trust in God’s sovereignty.

3. Prayerful Guidance: Godly counsel involves seeking wisdom through prayer and seeking God’s guidance together with your advisors. Invite the Holy Spirit to lead and direct your conversations, guiding you toward decisions that honor God and align with His purposes.

4. Accountability and Transparency: Establish a relationship of trust and accountability with your counselors, where you can openly share your thoughts, concerns, and struggles. Embrace constructive feedback and be willing to receive correction when necessary, knowing that it comes from a place of love and genuine concern for your well-being.

5. Experience and Expertise: While spiritual wisdom is paramount, it’s also valuable to seek counsel from individuals with relevant experience and expertise in the areas where you need guidance. Consider consulting professionals, mentors, or advisors who can offer practical insights and advice within their respective fields.

6.Biblical Foundation: Godly counsel is rooted in the timeless truths of Scripture. Seek advisors who base their advice and counsel on biblical principles and who help you apply God’s Word to your specific circumstances.

7. Peace and Confirmation: As you seek counsel, pay attention to the peace and confirmation that comes from the Holy Spirit. While wise counsel may challenge you and prompt you to consider different perspectives, ultimately, it should align with God’s Word and resonate with your spirit as you seek His will.

8. Continual Growth and Learning: Surround yourself with a community of believers who inspire and encourage spiritual growth and maturity. Engage in ongoing dialogue, study, and reflection with your counselors as you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.

In closing seeking godly counsel involves aligning yourself with wise, spiritually mature advisors who guide you according to biblical principles, prayerful discernment, and mutual accountability.

By surrounding yourself with godly wisdom and seeking counsel from those who honor God, you can make decisions that honor Him and lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Phil Berry Th.D , D.D.

Determining the will of God for your life is a deeply personal and a spiritual journey.

Posted on by philipberry

Part two of Five

When engaging in Bible study to discern God’s will for your life, it’s essential to approach it with a focused and intentional mindset. Here are some more detailed steps to guide you:

  1. Select Relevant Passages: Identify specific areas of your life or situations where you’re seeking guidance.

Look for biblical themes or topics that relate to those areas. For example, if you’re struggling with a decision about your career, you might explore passages related to vocation, stewardship, or trusting in God’s provision.

  • Read Systematically and Thoroughly: Rather than randomly selecting passages, consider reading through entire books of the Bible that address the themes or topics relevant to your situation. This approach helps you grasp the overarching message and context of Scripture.
  • Study the Context: Before diving into a specific passage, take time to understand its broader context. Consider the historical background, cultural setting, literary genre, and author’s intended audience. Contextual understanding is crucial for interpreting Scripture accurately.
  • Analyze the Passage: Once you’ve selected a relevant passage, read it carefully and attentively. Pay close attention to details such as key words, phrases, themes, and literary devices. Take note of any recurring motifs or symbols that might convey deeper meanings.
  • Use Study Tools: Utilize study tools such as commentaries, concordances, lexicons, and Bible dictionaries to aid your understanding. These resources provide insights into the original languages, cultural context, and theological significance of the passage.
  • Ask Questions: Engage with the text by asking questions that prompt deeper reflection and understanding. Consider questions such as:
  • What is the main idea or message of the passage?
  • How does this passage relate to other biblical themes or teachings?
  • What principles or truths can I apply to my life?
  • What implications does this passage have for my beliefs and actions?
  • Pray for Insight: Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your study and reveal God’s will to you. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and illumination as you engage with Scripture.
  • Seek Personal Application: As you gain insights from the passage, consider how its message applies to your life. Reflect on how you can align your thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors with God’s revealed will.
  • Reflect and Respond: Take time to meditate on the passage and its implications for your life. Allow God’s Word to challenge, convict, and encourage you. Determine practical steps you can take to align with God’s will in your situation.
  1. Continual Study and Application: Make Bible study a regular practice in your life. Continually seek God’s guidance and wisdom through His Word. Apply what you learn to your daily life and decisions, trusting in God’s faithfulness to lead you according to His will.

By following these detailed steps, you can engage in Bible study effectively to discern God’s will for your life and find insight and guidance for your specific circumstances. Remember that the goal of Bible study is not just intellectual knowledge but transformation and obedience to God’s will revealed in His Word.

Here are some key Scripture references from the (KJV) that emphasize the importance of seeking God’s will and guidance:

Proverbs 3:5-6:

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

James 1:5:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

Psalm 119:105:

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Romans 12:2:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

Ephesians 5:17:

“Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18:

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Isaiah 55:8-9:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Matthew 6:33:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Philippians 4:6-7:

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

These verses highlight the importance of trusting in God, seeking His wisdom, aligning with His Word, and maintaining a attitude of prayer and thanksgiving in discerning and following His will.

Embracing Spiritual Renewal in 2024: A Journey of Faith and Reflection

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Introduction:

As we step into the year 2024, many of us find ourselves at the crossroads of life, seeking a deeper meaning and connection to something beyond the material realm. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to lose sight of our spiritual well-being. The Bible, the word of God serves as a timeless guide, offering wisdom and inspiration for those on a quest for spiritual renewal.

The Call to Renewal:

The (KJV) Bible, with its rich language and profound teachings, has been a source of guidance for generations. In Isaiah 40:31, we are reminded, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” this verse indeed captures the essence of spiritual renewal. —a call to patiently wait on the Lord, trusting in His divine plan and finding strength in Him.

Reflecting on the Past:

As we embark on this journey of renewal, it is essential to reflect on the past year, acknowledging both successes and failures.

Psalm 51:10 (KJV) urges us to pray, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Through sincere self- reflection, and repentance, we open ourselves to God’s transforming power, paving the way for a renewed spirit.

Seeking Spiritual Disciplines:

Spiritual renewal often involves cultivating spiritual disciplines that foster a closer relationship with God. Regular prayer, meditation on Scripture, and fasting are powerful practices that can lead to a profound sense of spiritual rejuvenation. Psalm 119:11 (KJV). Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 

This scripture encourages us to store God’s Word in our hearts, guiding our steps and nourishing our souls.

Church Community and Fellowship:

In the journey toward spiritual renewal, the importance of community and fellowship cannot be overstated. Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV) reminds us, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Sharing our spiritual journey with like-minded believers provides support, encouragement, and accountability.

Embracing a Transformed Mindset:

Romans 12:2 (KJV) encourages us to “be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Spiritual renewal involves a shift in mindset—a departure from worldly values and a renewed focus on God’s truth. Through prayer, meditation, and aligning our thoughts with biblical principles, we can experience a transformative renewal of the mind.

As we enter 2024, let us embark on a journey of spiritual renewal guided by the wisdom of the Bible. Through patience, reflection, spiritual disciplines, community, and a transformed mindset, we can draw closer to God and experience a profound renewal of our spirit. May this be a year of deepening faith, heightened awareness of God’s presence, and a lasting transformation that extends beyond the temporal into the eternal.

Wow 2024 here we come!

I pray that you will allow the word of God to transform you into His likeness this New Year.

Phil

“A Radiant Candle: Embracing Peace in the Second Week of Advent – Reflections”

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As we light the second candle on our Advent wreath, its warm glow symbolizes more than mere illumination—it heralds the theme of peace. In the Bible, the concept of peace resonates profoundly, offering solace and guidance. Join me as we delve into the scriptures to unwrap the timeless message of peace during this second week of Advent.

Peace, known as “Shalom” in Hebrew, is a multifaceted concept in the Old Testament that goes beyond the mere absence of conflict. It encompasses a holistic well-being, harmony, and a sense of completeness. Here are several ways to expand on the theme of peace from the Old Testament:

1. Shalom as Wholeness:

  • In the Old Testament, peace is often associated with completeness and soundness. It goes beyond the external absence of conflict to a state of internal harmony and well-being (Psalm 34:14; Proverbs 3:1-2).

2. Covenantal Peace:

  • The Old Testament frequently links peace with God’s covenant relationship with His people. When the people of Israel were faithful to the covenant, they experienced the blessings of peace (Leviticus 26:3-6; Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

3. Shalom as Prosperity:

  • Peace is connected with prosperity and abundance. The well-being of individuals and the community is often described in terms of prosperity and peace (Jeremiah 29:11; Ezekiel 34:25-26).

4. The Prince of Peace:

  • Isaiah 9:6 prophesies about the coming Messiah, calling Him the “Prince of Peace.” This title signifies that the ultimate source of true and lasting peace will be found in the person of Jesus Christ.

5. Peace through Righteousness:

  • The Old Testament emphasizes that true peace is intimately connected with righteousness. Psalm 85:10 declares, “Righteousness and peace have kissed each other,” highlighting the inseparable link between righteousness and peace.

6. Peace in the Midst of Trials:

  • The Old Testament narratives often depict individuals finding peace in the midst of challenging circumstances. For example, the story of Joseph demonstrates how God can bring peace even in the face of betrayal and adversity (Genesis 45:4-5).

7. God as the Source of Peace:

  • God Himself is frequently described as the source of peace. Numbers 6:24-26 contains the priestly blessing that invokes God’s peace: “The Lord bless thee and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”

8. Shalom as a Gift of God:

  • Peace is often portrayed as a gift from God. It’s not merely a human accomplishment but a divine blessing. Psalm 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.”

9. Peace in the Messianic Age:

  • Many Old Testament prophecies anticipate a future era of peace, often associated with the Messianic age. Isaiah 11 envisions a time when even the animal kingdom will experience peace, symbolizing a universal harmony brought about by the Messiah.

The Old Testament paints a rich tapestry of peace that encompasses personal well-being, covenantal relationships, righteousness, and the ultimate hope of a Messianic peace. It sets the stage for the fulfillment of these promises in the person of Jesus Christ as revealed in the New Testament.

The Prophecy of Peace

In the Old Testament, prophets foretold the coming of a Prince of Peace. The anticipation of a Savior who would bring a profound and lasting peace is woven into the fabric of biblical prophecy, Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) – “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

The Announcement to the Shepherds

The angels’ proclamation to the shepherds on that holy night heralded not only the birth of a Savior but also a message of peace on earth. The birth of Jesus ushered in an era where reconciliation with God and harmony among people became possible.

Example: Luke 2:14 (KJV) – “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

The Peace of Christ in our Hearts

The KJV emphasizes the transformative power of Christ’s peace, which goes beyond worldly understanding. This inner peace, rooted in faith, guards our hearts and minds.

Example: Philippians 4:7 (KJV) – “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

The Call to Be Peacemakers

As we reflect on the second week of Advent, we are reminded of our role in spreading peace. The Bible encourages believers to actively engage in peacemaking and embody the virtues of Christ.

Matthew 5:9 (KJV) – “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

A Prayer for Peace

In the spirit of Advent, let us offer a prayer for peace, echoing the sentiments of the Psalmist who sought the tranquility that comes from God alone.

Psalm 29:11 (KJV) – “The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.”

As we bask in the glow of the Advent candles, let us carry the message of peace into the coming weeks. The second candle, radiant with the promise of peace, invites us to embrace the transformative power of Christ’s presence in our lives and share the gift of peace with the world.

Take a moment to meditate on a specific scripture related to peace from the Bible. How can you embody and share the peace of Christ during this Advent season? Share your reflections and aspirations for a peaceful world in the comments, and let our collective journey through Advent be a beacon of peace for all to see.

Connecting the concept of peace from the Old Testament with the New Testament reveals a beautiful and cohesive narrative that finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Here are several ways in which the Old Testament understanding of peace is connected to its New Testament counterpart:

1. Promise of the Messiah:

  • Old Testament: The anticipation of a coming Messiah, often referred to as the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), is a recurring theme. The Messiah was expected to bring a profound and lasting peace.
  • New Testament: Jesus Christ is revealed as the fulfillment of this Messianic prophecy in the New Testament (Luke 2:14, Ephesians 2:14-15). He is the embodiment of peace, reconciling humanity to God and bringing peace to those who receive Him.

2. Peace through Righteousness:

  • Old Testament: The Old Testament frequently connects peace with righteousness. Psalm 85:10 declares, “Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”
  • New Testament: The New Testament reinforces this connection, emphasizing that through faith in Jesus Christ, righteousness is imputed to believers, leading to peace with God (Romans 5:1).

3. God as the Source of Peace:

  • Old Testament: God is often invoked as the source of peace in blessings and prayers (Numbers 6:24-26).
  • New Testament: In the New Testament, Jesus extends peace to His disciples, assuring them of His divine peace (John 14:27). The apostles also invoke peace in their greetings and blessings (2 Thessalonians 3:16).

4. Peace through Covenant:

  • Old Testament: Peace is intimately connected with God’s covenant relationship with His people. Obedience to the covenant brings blessings, including peace (Leviticus 26:3-6).
  • New Testament: Jesus establishes a new covenant through His sacrifice, ushering in a new era of peace for all who believe in Him (Hebrews 13:20).

5. Universal Peace Through Christ:

  • Old Testament: Prophecies anticipate a future era of universal peace, often associated with the Messianic age (Isaiah 11).
  • New Testament: Jesus, through His life, death, and resurrection, inaugurates this universal peace, breaking down the dividing walls and reconciling all things to Himself (Ephesians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:19-20).

6. Peace with God:

  • Old Testament: The Old Testament acknowledges the need for reconciliation with God to experience true peace (Psalm 51:10-12).
  • New Testament: The New Testament declares that through faith in Jesus Christ, believers experience peace with God (Romans 5:1) and are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who produces the fruit of peace (Galatians 5:22).

7. Shalom as a Comprehensive Blessing:

  • Old Testament: Shalom in the Old Testament signifies comprehensive well-being—physical, spiritual, and relational.
  • New Testament: The New Testament echoes this holistic understanding of peace. It goes beyond external circumstances, offering a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).

The connection between the Old and New Testament concepts of peace beautifully illustrates the continuity of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus Christ emerges as the focal point, bringing fulfillment to the promises of peace found in the Old Testament and inaugurating a new covenant of peace for all who believe in Him.

Philip Berry D.D. Thd