What scriptural connections exist between 2 Chronicles 28:12 and Matthew 5:9? Setting the Scene in 2 Chronicles 28 • Northern Israel (Ephraim) had routed Judah and was marching home with thousands of captives and plunder (2 Chron 28:8). • At the city gate, four leaders intervene: “Then Azariah the son of Johanan, Berechiah the son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai stood in opposition to those arriving from the war.” (2 Chron 28:12) • Their goal: stop further blood-guilt, show mercy, and restore the captives (vv. 13-15). What the Ephraimite Leaders Did • Confronted their own army, risking reputation and safety. • Called fellow Israelites back to God’s law of compassion (Leviticus 19:17-18; Deuteronomy 24:17-18). • Acted quickly—clothed, fed, anointed, transported, and released the prisoners to Jericho (2 Chron 28:15). • Turned a victory that could have bred vengeance into an act of reconciliation. Jesus’ Beatitude on Peacemakers “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9) • Peacemakers actively intervene to end hostility, not merely avoid conflict. • Being called “sons of God” signals likeness to the Father who loves peace (Isaiah 9:6; Romans 15:33). Parallels Between the Two Passages • Active Intervention – Ephraimite elders: stepped into a volatile moment. – Beatitude: commends stepping in to establish peace. • Sacrificial Courage – Elders opposed their own victorious soldiers. – Peacemakers accept risk for righteousness (Matthew 5:10). • Restoration of the Oppressed – Captives clothed and escorted home. – Peacemakers mend broken relationships and heal wounds (Isaiah 58:6-7). • Family Resemblance to God – Chronicles highlights faithfulness within God’s covenant family. – Jesus declares peacemakers “sons of God,” reflecting the Father’s character (Ephesians 5:1-2). Broader Biblical Threads • Peace is a fruit of righteousness (Isaiah 32:17; James 3:18). • God blesses those who seek peace and pursue it (Psalm 34:14; Romans 12:18). • Old Testament examples foreshadow New Testament teaching: – Abigail averting bloodshed (1 Samuel 25). – Phinehas stopping a plague by upholding covenant peace (Numbers 25:11-13). Living the Connection Today • Step in where resentment or injustice threatens, even when it costs. • Use influence to restore, not exploit. • Remember: those who make peace bear the family likeness of the Prince of Peace. |
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