Biblical Answer

The Tension between Peace and Justice

The concept of peace and justice is often intertwined, yet they can also be in tension with one another. On one hand, peace is often associated with the absence of conflict and the presence of harmony. It is the restoration of wholeness and well-being, completeness and totality. On the other hand, justice is about treating equal people in an equal way, and achieving a workable justice system. While peace and justice are not mutually exclusive, they can sometimes seem to be at odds with each other. For example, achieving justice may require standing up for what is right, even if it means conflict and tension.

Balancing Peace and Justice

To balance peace and justice, we need to understand that they are both essential components of God's plan for humanity. Peace is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of Christ's peace and presence in our lives. Justice, on the other hand, is about treating others with fairness and equality. To balance peace and justice, we need to prioritize both. We need to seek God's guidance and wisdom to navigate the tension between peace and justice. This may require us to make difficult decisions and confront uncomfortable truths. However, by seeking God's guidance, we can find a way to balance peace and justice, and work towards creating a more just and peaceful world.

The Role of God's Sovereignty

Ultimately, the balance between peace and justice is not up to us alone. God's sovereignty is at work in the world, and He is committed to bringing about justice and peace in the end. In the future, God will gather His remnant from the ends of the earth and lead them victoriously against their enemies, ushering in a time of world peace. This is a far cry from the present situation, where worldwide peace is a rare thing indeed. However, by trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His guidance, we can work towards creating a more just and peaceful world, even in the midst of conflict and tension. By prioritizing both peace and justice, and seeking God's guidance, we can find a way to balance them and work towards creating a world that reflects God's values of love, justice, and peace.