The concept of sharing the peace of Christ is deeply rooted in the teachings of the New Testament and is a fundamental aspect of Christian life and community. This peace, often referred to as the "peace of God," is a profound sense of spiritual tranquility and reconciliation with God, made possible through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The peace of Christ is first and foremost a gift from God, bestowed upon believers through faith in Jesus Christ. In John 14:27, Jesus assures His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid." This peace is distinct from worldly peace, which is often temporary and circumstantial. Instead, the peace of Christ is enduring and rooted in the eternal promises of God.

The Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes the importance of this peace in his epistles. In Philippians 4:7, he writes, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This peace acts as a protective force, safeguarding believers from anxiety and fear, and is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Peace in the Christian Community

Sharing the peace of Christ is not only a personal experience but also a communal one. The early Christian communities were encouraged to live in harmony and unity, reflecting the peace they had received from Christ. In Ephesians 4:3, Paul urges believers to be "diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This unity is a witness to the world of the reconciling work of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

The practice of sharing peace is often symbolized in Christian liturgy through the "passing of the peace," where congregants greet one another with a gesture of peace, such as a handshake or embrace. This act serves as a reminder of the reconciliation believers have with God and with each other.

Peace as a Fruit of the Spirit

The peace of Christ is also identified as a fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." As believers grow in their relationship with Christ and are filled with the Holy Spirit, they naturally exhibit peace in their interactions with others.

Role in Evangelism and Witness

Sharing the peace of Christ is integral to the mission of evangelism. Believers are called to be peacemakers, as Jesus declared in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." By embodying and promoting peace, Christians bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and invite others to experience the peace that comes from a relationship with Christ.

Practical Application

In practical terms, sharing the peace of Christ involves living out the principles of forgiveness, reconciliation, and love. It requires believers to actively seek peace in their relationships, to forgive as they have been forgiven, and to love others as Christ has loved them. Romans 12:18 exhorts, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This pursuit of peace is a reflection of the believer's commitment to Christ and His teachings.

In summary, sharing the peace of Christ is a multifaceted concept that encompasses personal tranquility, communal harmony, and active peacemaking. It is a divine gift that transforms individuals and communities, serving as a powerful testimony to the world of the love and grace of Jesus Christ.