How does Hebrews 13:20 describe God's role as the "God of peace"? Setting the context Hebrews closes with a beautiful benediction that centers on who God is and what He has done. Hebrews 13:20 says, “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep.” Every phrase reveals another layer of the peace God secures for His people. The title “God of peace” • Scripture repeatedly names the Lord this way (Romans 15:33; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Philippians 4:9), underscoring that peace is not merely something God gives; it is who He is. • Peace (Greek: eirēnē) encompasses wholeness, harmony, and well-being—shalom fulfilled in Christ (John 14:27). Peace secured through resurrection • Hebrews 13:20 links peace to the historical, bodily resurrection of Jesus: “brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus.” • By raising Jesus, God removed the curse of sin and death (Romans 4:25), ending the hostility between Himself and humanity (Ephesians 2:13-16). • Because the resurrection is a completed fact, the peace it guarantees is unshakable (John 16:33). Peace rooted in the eternal covenant • “Through the blood of the eternal covenant” points to Christ’s atoning sacrifice. – Isaiah 53:5: “The punishment that brought us peace was upon Him.” – Colossians 1:20: God made “peace through the blood of His cross.” • Eternal covenant = permanent, unbreakable agreement. Peace with God does not expire or wobble with feelings; it rests on Christ’s finished work (Hebrews 9:12). Peace shepherded by Christ • Jesus is called “the great Shepherd of the sheep” (cf. Psalm 23:1; John 10:11). • A shepherd guards, guides, and provides. The resurrected Shepherd continually applies covenant peace to every area of His flock’s lives (Hebrews 7:25). • His present ministry ensures believers experience peace both positionally (reconciled to God) and practically (daily care). Living from the God of peace • Confidence: God’s nature guarantees His peace never runs out. • Assurance: The resurrection and eternal covenant anchor peace beyond circumstances. • Guidance: The Shepherd leads into paths of peace—obedience, holiness, and hope. The verse paints a comprehensive picture: the Father, called the God of peace, secured lasting peace by raising the Son, sealing an eternal covenant in His blood, and appointing Him as Shepherd to apply that peace to His people day by day. |
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