The Basis For True Peace

Peace between peoples and nations requires more than just toleration. Can anyone really be at peace with someone he hates? Not according to 1 John 3:15: "Everyone who hates his brother is a manslayer." As recent history proves, deep hatreds easily escalate into acts of violence.

Since Jehovah is "the God who gives peace," peace can be experienced only by people who have love for God and deep respect for his righteous principles. Clearly, Jehovah does not grant peace to everyone. "There is not peace, my God has said, 'for the wicked ones.' " This is because the wicked refuse to let themselves be guided by God's holy spirit, a fruit of which is peace. -Romans 15:33; Isaiah 57:21; Galatians 5:22.

To wage war on fellow humans-as so-called Christians have so often done, particularly in the 20th century-in unthinkable for genuine Christians. (James 4:1-4) True, they war against teachings that misrepresent God, but this warfare is designed to help individuals, not to harm them. To persecute others because of religious differences or to inflict physical harm for nationalistic reasons stands in sharp contrast with true Christianity. "If possible, as far as it depends upon you," Paul instructed Christians in Rome, "be peaceable with all men." -Romans 12:17-19; 2 Timothy 2:24, 25.

Today, divinely granted peace is to be found only among true worshipers of Jehovah God. (Psalm 119:165; Isaiah 48:18) No political differences disturb their unity, since they are everywhere politically neutral. (John 15:19; 17:14) Because they are "fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought," no religious differences threaten their peace. ( 1 Corinthians 1:10) The peace Jehovah's Witnesses enjoy is a modern-day miracle, one brought about by God in harmony with his promise: "I will appoint peace as your overseers and righteousness as your task assigners." -Isaiah 60:17; Hebrews 8:10.

Next time: Why "A Time For War"?

Watchtower, 1999