The first written record of a peace treaty is that of two warring kings living in Mesopotamia 4,000 year ago. Since that peace treaty was put in place, nearly 1200 other peace agreements have been attempted by warring nations– with little lasting success. It is easy to see we humans don’t have the capacity to live in peace with each other. That is why it is so striking to read in the Bible that God intends to establish a covenant of peace on earth under the leadership of King David’s descendant, Jesus Christ. Long ago, the prophet Isaiah predicted the Messiah would come and establish a peaceful rule.
We read in (Isaiah 9:6-7) “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen.” Knowing God’s interest in peace and justice should motivate God’s people even today to foster these virtues.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
