No offense taken. It’s my authority, as well.

I’m not ignoring you, Dan. Its just another busy day at work. And our small group meets tonight so please don’t be offended if I’m not up for any heavy thinking at the moment.

But as far as my “sons of God” qustion, what I’m getting at is this: Is there anywhere else in the Bible where the term is used? (There are several.)

Then by looking at the other passages where the term is used, I figure we can learn additional insights into the character of the folks for whom the term applies. And then perhaps in turn by applying the additional insight into the character of the “sons of God” learned, we will also shed even more light on the peacemakers.

At least that’s my theory. We’ll see how it works out!

But first I plan to look at the term peace as used in the Bible.

Oh, and please don’t be offended by my choice to use the Bible as my authority, not Gandhi (great man that he was) or even the Presbyterians for that matter (many of whom I consider good friends)…

And I’m not sure if I understand the question: Isn’t the passage saying that peacemakers are the children of God? Those who make peace/shalom?

Incidentally, I read where the Bible uses the word, Peace, it often from the word Shalom, which means:

The Hebrew word shalom includes such English ideas as peace, well-being, wholeness or health, welfare, prosperity, and safety.

Shalom involves positive relationships between peoples and persons.

Positive relationships within the community mean that the needs of all persons are met and there is material well-being, economic security, and prosperity for all.

All of that, as well as “the absence of war,” according to a Presbyterian website.

For what it’s worth.

I think we can know some of what “peacemaker” doesn’t mean based upon the life and actions of Jesus.

Given Jesus’ actions in the temple (driving out the moneychangers) and towards the powers that be, it doesn’t mean non-confrontative.

Given Jesus’ statement, “I haven’t come to bring peace, but a sword…” it seems that Jesus recognizes how divisive a message of “Peace” may be and the possible fate of those who’d follow him.

Given Jesus’ fearless and bold nature, it doesn’t mean milquetoast or weakling or passive.

Given Jesus’ fairly clear teachings (Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, overcome evil with good, turn the other cheek, go the second mile, put away that sword, etc), it seems clear to many of us that it does not include killing your enemies.

There’s a great quote from Gandhi where he said that it’s pretty clear to everyone except Christians that Jesus was a pacifist.

Thoughts?