How does Genesis 13:7 relate to Matthew 5:9 on peacemaking? Setting the Scene • Genesis 13:7 records the first mention of open conflict among God’s people: “And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. (At that time the Canaanites and Perizzites were dwelling in the land.)” • Matthew 5:9 presents Jesus’ direct blessing on those who resolve conflict: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” The Conflict in Genesis 13 • The quarrel sprang up over grazing space and water—daily, material concerns. • The surrounding Canaanites and Perizzites were watching, meaning Abram’s testimony was on display. • Left unchecked, the dispute threatened God-given relationships and the witness of His covenant people. Abram’s Peacemaking Response (Genesis 13:8-9) • He addressed the issue quickly: “Please let there be no strife…” • He appealed to relationship: “for we are brothers.” • He took initiative and yielded rights, offering Lot first choice of the land. • He trusted God’s promise (Genesis 12:1-3) to meet his needs regardless of which pasture remained. Jesus’ Beatitude Explained • “Peacemakers” are not peace-wishers but peace-workers—those who actively intervene to end strife. • They “will be called sons of God” because they reflect the character of the Father, who reconciles (Colossians 1:20). Connecting the Two Passages 1. Practical Example vs. Principle – Genesis 13:7-9 is the historical case; Matthew 5:9 is the timeless principle Jesus later states. Abram lived out what Jesus later blessed. 2. Witness to the Watching World – Abram avoided a public scandal before Canaanites; Jesus says peacemakers bear the family resemblance of God, displaying Him to onlookers. 3. Costly Self-Denial – Abram’s offer risked losing prime pasture. Jesus implies similar cost, yet promises the reward of being identified with God Himself. 4. Faith Foundations – Abram could yield because he trusted God’s provision; peacemakers in Christ rely on the same faith (Hebrews 12:14). Lessons for Today • Act early—don’t let small quarrels fester. • Value relationships above possessions or preferences. • Take the initiative even if you did not start the conflict (Romans 12:18). • Be willing to yield personal rights, confident that God can restore more than you release. • Remember who is watching—unbelievers often judge the truth of the gospel by the unity of Christians (John 13:35). Additional Scriptural Witnesses • James 3:17-18—“the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” • Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath…” • 2 Corinthians 5:18—God “has given us the ministry of reconciliation.” Abram’s story in Genesis 13 incarnates Jesus’ later teaching in Matthew 5:9: genuine children of God are known by their costly, proactive pursuit of peace. |
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