Exploring the Pacifist Message of Jesus

One often asks, 'Did Jesus preach a pacifist message?' This is a complex question with a nuanced answer. While many believe that Jesus' message supports non-violence, others see his teachings as more multifaceted and even include elements of warfare. A deeper look into the teachings and actions of Jesus in the Bible can shed light on this intriguing subject.

Jesus as a Pacifist or a Warmonger?

It is often said that Jesus is either a pacifist or a warmonger. This categorization is more about fitting Jesus into our modern worldviews rather than reflecting the complexity of his teachings and actions. In reality, Jesus did not fit neatly into either of these categories. He was a peacekeeper in a way, but his path to peace was often through acts of love and sacrifice rather than war.

Jesus, The Peacemaker

Consider Jesus as the peacemaker who helped us find peace with God. This peace is eternal life, and it is more complicated than life itself. His message of peace and forgiveness is ingrained in his life and teachings. Even his enemies could not label him as a warmonger, as the Bible does not record any instance of him harming, beating, or killing anyone.

Teachings of Peace

Jesus' teachings on peace are clear and abundant in the Bible. He urged and encouraged tolerance, forgiveness, self-denial, self-giving, and sacrifice for the happiness and comfort of others. Here are some specific examples from his teachings:

Matthew 5:9

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.”

Luke 6:32-33

If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. But if you love those who hate you, and do good to them, and lend to them from whom you do not expect to receive back, you will be children of the Most High.”

Matthew 18:21-22

Then Peter came to him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

Matthew 6:14

“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

Mark 9:35

“He sat down, and called the twelve, and said to them, ‘If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”

Examples from His Life and Actions

Jesus' message of peace was also coupled with good deeds and miracles of healing. He was a servant to all people, showing compassion and mercy through his actions. For instance:

Acts 10:38, Matthew 4:23, Matthew 9:35

“He went about doing good and healing every sickness and infirmity among the people.”

He also rebuked his student Peter when Peter attempted to use violence, showing that even his closest followers must be guided by his teachings. Additionally, Jesus forgave his crucifiers, seeking to have mercy on them:

Luke 23:34

“Then Jesus said: ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

These examples demonstrate that Jesus was not only a pacifist, but also a healer and a reconciler, seeking to bring peace in every aspect of his life.

Conclusion

The message of Jesus is one of peace, love, and forgiveness. While some interpret his teachings as purely pacifist, others see a more complex and multifaceted message. By examining his teachings and actions, we can appreciate the full extent of his message of peace. It is important to seek truth through the Bible itself and not to be misled by those who want to distort his message.

As you explore the Gospels, you will find the true truth about the greatness of Christ’s love, his message, and his good news of peace. Refrain from listening to false teachings of those who oppose Christ and Christianity. Instead, seek your information from the Gospel itself, which contains the details of his life and everything about him.