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Explanation for:
Matthew
5
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9
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God.
16
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"I refer to those who first create peace within their hearts and then among their fellow believers who hold differing views. Truly, what benefit is there in aiding others toward reconciliation if there remains a conflict of sins within your own spirit?"},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"In this passage, Christ not only denounces the conflict and animosity that exist among individuals but also calls us to mend the disputes of others. Furthermore, He offers a profound spiritual blessing for this endeavor. What is this blessing? Those who fulfill this calling are referred to as the children of God, since the mission of the only begotten Son of God was to bring together the fractured and restore peace to the strife-ridden."},{"author-name":"Gregory of Nyssa","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c197597540c9caa3754_Gregory%20of%20Nyssa.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"In the sacred vision of the tabernacle, crafted by the lawgiver for the Israelites according to the divine pattern revealed on the mount, everything within that enclosure, as well as each individual part, was deemed holy and sacred. Yet, the innermost section remained untouchable and off-limits, designated as the holy of holies. This distinctly named area signifies a level of holiness that far surpasses the rest, akin to how the consecrated is set apart from the ordinary and impure. Thus, I propose that all the blessings previously indicated to us on this mountain are each sanctified, but what is truly revealed is the sanctuary and the holy of holies. If it is not greater than this to behold God, then undoubtedly, to be called a child of God exceeds every good. What terms can adequately express such a promise? Whatever can be imagined is undoubtedly higher than the imagination itself. If we label what is promised in this beatitude as good, valuable, or exalted, then that which is signified is infinitely greater than these descriptors. Success surpasses aspiration, gifts exceed hope, and grace overtakes nature. What is the measure of humanity when compared to God's essence? From which of the saints can I borrow words to describe human frailty? Abraham states, he is only dust and ashes (Gen. 18:27); Isaiah likens him to grass (Is. 40:6); David suggests he is lesser still, merely a resemblance of grass, stating, ‘All flesh is grass’ (Is. 40:6) and ‘Man is like the grass’ (Ps. 36:2). Ecclesiastes calls him vanity; Paul refers to him as ‘undoing’ (1 Cor. 15:10) as the Apostle identifies with the plight of all mankind. Such is humanity; what, then, of God? How can I articulate that which is invisible, inaudible, and beyond comprehension? What expressions can encapsulate His nature? What comparison can be drawn from the goods we know? The insights from sacred Scripture proclaim wondrous truths about the transcendent Nature, yet how do these revelations compare with the reality of that Nature? They convey as much as my capacity allows for comprehension, but surely fall short of capturing the true essence. Just as those who inhale air take only as much as they can, they do not encompass the whole atmosphere, but rather a portion of it; likewise, the theological understandings articulated in Holy Scripture by inspired individuals are vast and profound, exceeding all measurements but never attaining the full measure of truth. It is written: Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and marked off the heavens with a span, and calculated the dust of the earth in a measure? (Is. 40:12). Observe how lofty is the thought of the one who attempts to convey the ineffable power! Yet, what does this signify in relation to the true Existence? The prophetic declarations, expressed in such grand terms, reveal merely a fragment of the Divine action; about the power from which this activity flows, and even more so about the Nature from which the power stems, it remains silent and does not intend to clarify. Instead, it gestures to the Godhead, representing only a glimpse of the Divine, as in the words: To whom will you liken me? (Isa. 46:5), says the Lord. This same sentiment is echoed in Ecclesiastes: Do not be hasty in word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth (Eccl. 5:1), suggesting the immeasurable gulf between the nature of God and earthly understandings. This Being, so powerful and vast that He eludes sight, hearing, and understanding, accounts for nothing among created beings; yet, this dust, this grass, this vanity, is accepted as a child of the God of all. What gratitude can be offered for such grace? Is there a word, a thought, or even the slightest notion that could truly honor the abundance of such grace? Humanity is lifted from the confines of its nature, transforming from mortal to immortal, from perishable to eternal, in essence from man to God; for one who attains to be a child of God undoubtedly inherits the dignity of the Father, becoming an heir to all paternal blessings. What generosity from the bounteous Lord! What an expansive hand! What tremendous gifts of unspeakable treasure! To elevate a nature so diminished by sin to near equality with Himself! If the essence of His being is bestowed upon humanity, what declaration of our kinship could be more emphatic than this? This is the reward; what then is the task? It is said, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. It appears to me that the labor for which such a reward is granted is itself a fresh gift; for in the enjoyment of worldly delights, what could be sweeter for peaceful souls? For all pleasure in life requires peace; for even if all worldly goods—wealth, health, family, service, friendship—abound, without the blessing of peace, their enjoyment is rendered void by conflict. Therefore, peace is truly delightful for those who cherish it in life, mitigating all worldly tribulations. Even in moments of calamity during peace, the evil caused by adversity can grow bearable, transformed by goodness. When life is overshadowed by war, individual sorrows may be dulled, overshadowed by the collective grief. Physicians of the body say that when two diseases afflict one body simultaneously, the stronger illness renders the other less perceptible; thus, the overwhelming troubles of war can numb individuals to their own sufferings. Yet, if the soul, already numb to its affliction by the overarching calamity of conflict, is deprived of any sense of joy, then what room remains for pleasant thoughts? Amidst the clamor of conflict—the clash of weapons, the roar of battle—who could find a moment to reflect on the cheerful? If a memory of joy enters the heart in such turmoil, does it not amplify one’s distress by conjuring a cherished recollection? Therefore, He who rewards you for averting the shackles of war grants you two gifts: the reward itself and the act of peacemaking. For if there were no hope of reward, the peace itself would be cherished more by those who pursue it than the thought of a reward. Thus, the fullness of God’s compassion is recognized in this: He bestows bountiful rewards for joys and not merely for toil; for among all that brings cheer, the paramount good is peace, which each yearns to possess—not only for themselves but also to share with those lacking it. For it is written, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God; a peacemaker is one who extends peace to others. But one cannot impart what he lacks himself. Hence, one must first be filled with the goodness of peace before offering it to those in need. There is no need for extensive exploration to grasp the concept of goodness; the declaration is sufficient to understand. Blessed are the peacemakers. Scripture succinctly presents a remedy for numerous ills within this encompassing statement. Let us first consider: what is peace? Essentially, it is a loving regard for one’s neighbor. Conversely, what stands in opposition to love? Hatred, anger, irritation, envy, vindictiveness, hypocrisy, and the scourge of warfare. Do you see how many afflictions one statement serves to counter? The world stands against all that harms and seeks to destroy what brings about disorder. Just as health returns when illness departs, and light dispels darkness, peace eradicates all passions stirred by strife. What goodness it promotes requires no further elaboration. Consider for yourself: what life entails suspicion and enmity? Meetings suffer from discomfort; mutual disdain pervades interactions; silence reigns; eyes avert; ears shut against friendly words; what displeases one delights the other, and vice versa. As fragrance fills the air with its essence: so may the Lord abundantly increase the grace of peace in your lives, making you a remedy for others' afflictions. The immeasurable goodness of peace can be appreciated by examining every turmoil born of hostile will. Who can aptly delineate the furious onslaught of anger? What words can portray the disgrace of such turmoil? The frenzied outbursts of those consumed by irritation mirror the actions of the possessed. Compare the suffering of the demonized with that of the irritable and discern the similarities. The bloodshot, wild eyes of the afflicted, the incoherent speech, the jagged voice, convulsive movements of the limbs—both malice and demonic torment manifest alike. The difference rests merely in the voluntary versus involuntary nature of one’s despair. How much more lamentable is it when one chooses to suffer from within? Witness the possessed person inspires pity; yet, those in the throes of irritation are noticed, but their folly is often mimicked, revealing an affliction they cannot overcome. The demon torments the body, while the tormentor of irritability inflicts harm voluntarily; when the latter overwhelms, bitterness rises within, drowning out other sensible thoughts. The eyes bulge, blood vessels throb, speech is distorted—these are the common actions observable in wrath and demonic affliction alike. Both expressions of evil may clash violently, yet one thrives on the propensity to inflict suffering voluntarily; how much more dreadful is this abyss? From irritation arises disunity, threatening even the primary senses. If in this struggle, a mouth finds closeness, the teeth become weapons, tearing at the flesh. Who can articulate all the miseries stemming from anger? Thus, anyone who withstands such indignities on account of profound kindness deserves honor. If someone who alleviates bodily suffering is deemed worthy of reverence, how much greater esteem should one receive who liberates the soul from such affliction? For the soul is nobler than the body; therefore, a healer of the soul eclipses those who heal the body. Moreover, I do not suppose that the disturbance wrought by irritation qualifies as worse than the malevolent acts of hatred. Passions such as envy and hypocrisy present an even graver situation, hidden behind a veil of duplicity. Those who harbor concealed ire, lurking like quiet beasts, inflict wounds unexpectedly, much like those who hide malicious intentions beneath a facade of kindness. Such are the subtleties of envy and pretense, where hatred simmers quietly, cloaked in a mask of friendship, analogous to a flame shrouded by straw—it burns within, but flickers not, only releasing acrid smoke until ignited anew. Envy consumes the heart like a hidden fire. Though it may aim to remain discreet out of shame, it cannot entirely vanish, manifesting sour signs of its effects. When misfortune befalls an envied soul, the envious conspicuously reveal their inner turmoil, taking pleasure in the suffering of their neighbor. The hidden wounds of this passion emerge through clear expressions on the face, resembling the signs of one nearing death. The cause of such sickness is the joy of a brother, kin, or neighbor; how unjust is this? To resent another's prosperity, deeming it an affront, without having suffered injury, only adds to one’s folly. What affliction compels your bitterness towards another’s happiness? Why do you sour at their success? Is it that they bear physical beauty? Or eloquence? Or noble birth? Or esteemed status? Or wealth? Or sagacity? Or familial joy? Why let these perceived inequities torment your heart? Your hands clench, your fingers intertwine with tension, your thoughts spiral in distress; you sigh deeply, finding bitterness in each meal, sorrow in your surroundings. Your ears eagerly await gossip about those who thrive; yet, any praise falls on deaf ears. Why the pretense of friendship draped over this inner turmoil? Why greet with respect yet harbor contrary thoughts? Such was Cain, driven by envy of God’s favor upon Abel, prompting hatred’s lethal design. Thus, one who eradicates such afflictions from humanity binds the community in goodwill, forging peaceful bonds, and is truly engaged in a divine mission—removing malaise while establishing blessings anew. The Lord, therefore, bestows upon peacemakers the title of child of God; for in fostering peace, they emulate the true God. Blessed then are the peacemakers, for they shall be recognized as sons of God. Who specifically are they? Imitators of divine grace, embodying God's works through their lives. The Generous Giver of all that is good eradicates everything contrary to goodness, urging you to expel hatred, halt conflicts, eliminate envy, and extinguish hypocrisy, thus replacing such vices with nurturing virtues. As light conquers darkness, so do the fruits of the Spirit manifest: joy, peace, kindness, goodness, patience, and all the other graces summed by the Apostle (Gal. 5:22). How blessed, therefore, is the minister of divine gifts, who mirrors God through his generosity? Perhaps, blessedness extends beyond altruism; the true peacemaker harmonizes inner conflict, aligning the flesh with the spirit, allowing the law of the body to cease its opposition to the law of the mind (Rom. 7:23) and willingly submits to a higher calling. Therefore, let us understand that God desires not merely a dual existence but unification through the dissolution of vice within us, allowing our nature to return to purity—becoming truly unified. In this state, visible and invisible realities coalesce, manifesting true peace, and those embodying this reality are indeed called children of God, inheriting the blessing promised by our Lord Jesus Christ. To Him be glory forever and ever! Amen."},{"author-name":"Ephraem the Syrian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b589fc3e99eb7bb1839_Ephraem%20the%20Syrian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God,” as the angels proclaimed when they brought the good news, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace” (Luke 2:14). “And He reconciled all things,” affirms the apostle, “by the blood of His Cross, making peace between what is in heaven and what is on earth” (cf. Col. 1:20). When the Lord commissioned His disciples, He instructed them to say, “Peace be unto this house” when they entered any home (Luke 10:5). Thus, He identifies the peacemakers as the children of God, for “those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God” (cf. Rom. 8:14).\\n\\nHe who grieves his neighbor creates distress; however, the peacemakers are truly blessed, for they are called the children of God. Those who foment discord will face sudden ruin, division, and unresolved turmoil, for they take pleasure in what displeases the Lord; yet, the one who loves peace shall reap peace, and humility in a person helps to avert strife. When brethren are deeply troubled with one another, the peacemaker is indeed blessed; but the one who incites them to quarrel will face consequences."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The one and only God embodies spiritual harmony, as the apostle states: For He is our peace Eph. 2:14. Therefore, those who cherish peace are truly the children of peace. Peacemakers are not merely those who mend the rift between adversaries but also those who let go of past grievances, embracing peace in their hearts. Many individuals may facilitate reconciliation among others, yet they often harbor unresolved conflicts within themselves. Such individuals merely feign tranquility, lacking genuine love for peace. True peace is the joy instilled within the heart, beyond mere words. If you wish to identify a true peacemaker, heed the words of the prophet: Keep your tongue from evil and your mouth from deceitful words Psalm 33:10."},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The Savior delighted in those who foster peace and proclaimed that the children of God would be first recognized among those who find tranquility within themselves, choosing not to engage in rebellion but rather to quell inner turmoil. They bring their physical desires into submission to the spirit, compelling the lower aspects of themselves to serve the higher, a servitude that surpasses all notions of freedom and nobility. Following this, He acknowledged those who promote peace among others—those ensnared in conflict both within and with one another. It is essential to remember that one cannot impart what they do not possess themselves. Thus, I am in awe of God's boundless grace, for He promises rewards not solely for toil and effort but also for a certain delight, since peace represents the pinnacle of what brings us joy. Without it, when disrupted by conflict, nothing joyful can truly hold power. It is aptly stated that peacemakers shall be called children of God, for this is the reward designated for their noble act. As the True Son, He reconciled all things by transforming the body into an instrument of righteousness, creating two groups of believers—those from the Jews and those from the Gentiles—by forming one new humanity, uniting the celestial with the terrestrial. Therefore, He rightly declares that those who emulate this unity, if they are able, shall be honored with the same title and elevated to the status of sons, the ultimate realization of blessedness."},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Perfection exists in the realm devoid of conflict. Consequently, the children of God serve as peacemakers, for there is no opposition to God, and the children must inherently reflect the nature of the Father. These peacemakers are those who have brought into submission their thoughts and spirit, mastering their inner tumult and controlling fleshly desires, allowing them to enter the Kingdom of God. In this divine realm, everything is organized so that the admirable and virtuous aspects of humanity reign harmoniously over the lesser elements that are shared with animals. What is esteemed in humanity—namely, the mind and intellect—submits to the highest truth revealed in the only begotten Son of God. A person cannot dominate the inferior unless they are first subject to what is superior. This is the peace bestowed to those on earth who possess goodwill; it embodies the life of the truly wise and fully matured individual. From such a kingdom, brought to a state of complete peace and order, the prince of this world is cast out, as he governs realms marked by corruption and chaos. \\n\\nThus, although there is an ongoing struggle within the depths of man's soul, this noble conflict is directed towards ensuring that the highest elements within him do not falter before the lowest, that reason prevails over desire, and that wisdom triumphs over lust. This is the authentic peace that you must cultivate within yourself, enabling the best part of you to dominate the baser instincts. The finest aspects of your being reflect the image of God: they are known as reason and intellect, where faith burns brightly, hope is fortified, and love is ignited."},{"author-name":"Chromatius of Aquileia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a3df6d7a747a33b4f4a_Chromatius%20of%20Aquileia.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Peacemakers are individuals who resist the lure of conflict and uphold brotherly love and unity within the Church, fully embracing the collective faith. It is this peace that the Lord entrusts to His followers, proclaiming, ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you’ (John 14:27). As confirmed by David, the Lord promises to grant this peace to His Church, declaring, ‘I will listen to what the Lord God will say to me, for He will speak peace to His people, to His elect and to those who turn to Him’ (Ps. 84:8). \\n\\nConsider the great reward awaiting peacemakers, as they are elevated from the status of mere servants to that of sons of God! This distinction is no mere coincidence; those who cherish peace also cherish Christ, the very embodiment of peace, whom the Apostle Paul describes as ‘peace,’ stating, ‘For he is our peace’ (Eph. 2:14). Conversely, those who do not value peace align themselves with discord, thus favoring the adversary, the architect of conflict. It was this adversary who instigated discord between God and humanity, leading mankind to transgress divine commandments. Yet, the Son of God descended from heaven to defeat the enemy of discord and restore peace between God and humanity, reconciling mankind with the Creator and securing God’s favor. Therefore, to truly deserve the title of ‘sons of God,’ we must earnestly become peacemakers. Without peace, we risk losing not only our designation as ‘sons’ but also our identity as ‘servants,’ as the Apostle reminds us: ‘Love peace, without which (cf. Hebrews 12:14) no one can please God’ (cf. Hebrews 11:6). \\n\\nWe are reminded, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.’ Those who strive for peace merit great honor, for they are recognized as ‘sons of God.’ While it is commendable to work towards reconciling those embroiled in disputes over worldly matters or fleeting glory, such efforts hold limited significance. The Lord set us an example, stating, ‘Who hath set Me to judge or divide you?’ (Luke 12:14). He also advised, ‘Of him that hath taken thine, demand not back’ (Luke 6:30), and in another instance questioned, ‘How can ye believe, when ye receive glory from one another?’ (John 5:44). Thus, we are called to pursue a deeper, more profound form of peacemaking—one that compels those outside the faith, who are adversaries of God, to embrace peace through steadfast teaching; a peacemaking wherein sinners are transformed and reconciled to God through repentance; where those who rebel against the truth are brought to submission; and where discordant churches find unity and harmony. Truly, such peacemakers are not only blessed, but rightfully recognized as ‘sons of God.’ By emulating Christ, whom the Apostle calls ‘our peace’ (Eph. 2:14) and ‘reconciliation’ (2 Cor. 5:18-19), they share in a common identity with Him."},{"author-name":"Cyrill of Alexandria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a8ea5c988a4fc073480_Cyrill%20of%20Alexandria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The one who brings peace embodies the unity found within the Scriptures, discerning the harmony between the Old and New Testaments, the law given and the prophecies fulfilled, as well as the gospel message across the board, even when others seem to be in opposition. By following the example of the Son of God, such an individual is granted the title of son, receiving through their actions the Spirit of adoption (Rom. 8:15)."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Blessed are not only those who dwell in harmony with everyone, but also those who bring together those in conflict. True peacemakers are those who, through their teachings, guide the adversaries of God toward the truth. These individuals are regarded as the children of God, for the only begotten Son of God has also reconciled us to the Father."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Those who actively foster peace and help others who are in conflict find themselves blessed. The Children of God are called to emulate His only begotten Son, whose mission was to bring together those who are divided and heal the strife between adversaries. The peacemaker is blessed for reconciling the desires of the flesh with the aspirations of the soul, triumphing over the lesser instincts in favor of the higher virtues. They not only enjoy harmony with everyone but also assist in mending the rifts in others. Furthermore, peacemakers are those who guide adversaries toward God through teaching; they too are recognized as children of God, for the only begotten Son has also reconciled us with the Father."},{"author-name":"Peter of Damascus","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":12,"exegesis-text":"Blessed, as stated in Holy Scripture, are those who promote peace, meaning individuals who bring harmony to both their spirit and body by placing the flesh under the authority of the spirit. This way, the flesh does not rise up against the spirit; instead, the grace of the Holy Spirit governs the soul, directing it according to His divine will. This guidance grants spiritual wisdom that empowers them to withstand persecution, affronts, and suffering in pursuit of righteousness, finding joy in the knowledge that their rewards in heaven are abundant (cf. Matthew 5:10, 12)."},{"author-name":"Peter of Kiev","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ddde144a394c69d270_Peter%20of%20Kiev.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":17,"exegesis-text":"What is the seventh beatitude? The response is: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the sons of God’ (Matthew 5:9). What does this beatitude convey? First, those who take joy in this beatitude are individuals who daily offer spiritual sacrifices to God on behalf of those who stand in opposition to Him, persevering in prayers and supplications, and by seeking to appease His just anger, they secure His grace for transgressors. Secondly, those who wisely and respectfully mediate to resolve disputes and conflicts among people, fostering unity through love and transforming foes into friends. Thirdly, those who, through their wise counsel, eliminate the factors that incite strife among monarchs and leaders, thereby preventing violence and loss of life."},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The peace of God enters into the heart that is pure, bringing together the previously divided mind, spirit, and body, thereby renewing humanity and making one a descendant of the New Adam. This divine peace is the inheritance of God's holy people; through this sacred tranquility, the Christian, having journeyed through repentance, finds reconciliation with God, with all circumstances, with others, and within himself, becoming a child of God by grace. The peace of God comes with the evident presence of the Holy Spirit within, representing the work and fruit of the Holy Spirit. Those who have received the peace of God are equipped to endure various trials: they can bear insults, slander, exile, and other hardships with patience and joy. A person who has attained the peace of God is no longer afraid of external turmoil; in their heart, the comfort of grace has outweighed all earthly pleasures and the heaviness of worldly sorrows."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Peacemakers are those who strive to live harmoniously with everyone, utilizing their resources, influence, and efforts to soothe conflicts, avert discord, and bring about reconciliation among adversaries. This concept includes the designation of the children of God, as referenced in Matthew 1:1. Every believer is a child of the same Heavenly Father, as stated in Romans 8:17 and Galatians 4:5, but peacemakers embody this especially well. The Lord embodies peace, as noted in 1 Corinthians 14:33; thus, those who foster peace among individuals closely reflect God and are particularly deserving of the title \\"children of God.\\" They are likewise compared to the God-Man, who descended to earth with the mission of bridging the gap between God and humanity. In this regard, they are indeed legitimate offspring of the God-Man, as affirmed by commentators such as Chrysostom and Theophylact. They will be acknowledged as such, meaning they will genuinely hold this identity."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"WHAT IS THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT OF THE LORD FOR ACHIEVING BLISS? Those who seek the beatitudes must become agents of peace. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN AGENT OF PEACE? Being an agent of peace involves behaving amicably and avoiding actions that could lead to conflict; it requires resolving disputes by any means possible, including the willingness to set aside one's own interests, unless such actions would violate duty or cause harm to others; it also means striving to mend relationships between those at odds, and if that proves impossible, earnestly praying for their reconciliation. WHAT PROMISE DOES THE LORD MAKE TO THOSE WHO SEEK PEACE? The Lord assures that peacemakers will be recognized as children of God. WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT PEACEMAKERS WILL BE RECOGNIZED AS CHILDREN OF GOD? This promise reflects the significance of the peacemakers' actions and the reward that awaits them. In mirroring the work of the only begotten Son of God, who descended to earth to restore fallen humanity to God’s righteousness, they are granted the blessed title of children of God, along with a level of joy that rightfully accompanies such a designation."}]}
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