How does Isaiah 27:5 connect with Jesus' teachings on peace? Isaiah’s Invitation to Peace (27:5) “Or let them take hold of My strength; let them make peace with Me—yes, let them make peace with Me.” (Isaiah 27:5) • God personally offers reconciliation to those formerly at odds with Him. • “Take hold of My strength” shows peace rests on His power, not ours. • The double call—“let them make peace… yes, let them make peace”—underscores urgency and certainty. Peace in Jesus’ Teaching • John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you… Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” • John 16:33 — “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace.” • Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” • Luke 24:36 — After the resurrection He greets the disciples, “Peace to you.” • Ephesians 2:14 describes Him as the One who “is our peace.” Shared Themes • Divine Initiative – Isaiah: God invites enemies to seize His strength. – Gospels: Jesus comes to us, offering His own peace. • Peace Through a Person – Isaiah ties peace to God Himself. – Jesus identifies peace with “Me” and “My peace.” • Strength and Security – “Take hold of My strength” parallels Jesus’ promise that none can snatch His sheep from His hand (John 10:28). – True peace stands on omnipotence, not fragile human treaties. • Reconciliation, Not Mere Calm – Isaiah calls for relational restoration. – Jesus offers reconciliation with God, producing inward rest (Romans 5:1). Taking Hold of His Strength Today • Receive His peace by trusting the finished work of the cross. • Rely on His ongoing strength through the Spirit to quiet fear and anxiety. • Reflect His peace outwardly—being peacemakers who model the very reconciliation we have received. |