Week One: Peace

This is the last of the posts for Week One. You can read the previous posts at Introduction, Luke’s Own Introduction, and Three Prayers and Background.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace
among those with whom he is pleased! (Luke 2:14)
Your faith has saved you; go in peace. (Luke 7:50b)
Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” (Luke 24:36)

What does the word “peace” mean, as it is used in the Bible? In Greek it is Eirene. In Hebrew it is Shalom. The peace God gives is intimately connected to God’s grace—when our sins are forgiven and we are in right relationship with God through grace, we will be at peace…
Eirene…means harmonious relationships between people or nations, friendliness, freedom, order, and even harmony between God and people. This word corresponds to the Hebrew word shalom, which is not just peace but wholeness. The same word is used in phrases like “the God of peace” and “the gospel of peace.” –Keri Wyatt Kent, 99 Bible Words You Should Know. 

Shalom: the sense of tranquility, or a state of calm without anxiety or stress…Peace is identified as the fruit of righteousness and as a specific blessing from God… —Expository Dictionary of Bible Words

[In Hebrew] the expression “Peace,” (shalom) had a much richer connotation than the English word does since it conveyed not merely the absence of conflict and turmoil but also the notion of positive blessing, especially in terms of a right relationship with God…This may be manifested most clearly amid persecution and tribulation. –ESV Study Bible

Which of these phrases gave you a new idea about peace today or spoke to you of a peace you crave?

Look back at the definitions of peace. Find a phrase or two to use as you pray for the Lord’s guidance in this study.

If you would like to prepare for next week, read Luke 1 and Luke 2:1-20. If you’d like study notes throughout the week, you might consider buying the book.