TRUE PEACE--FROM WHAT SOURCE?

The Way to Peace

If men, through agencies such as the United Nations, cannot bring about true and lasting peace, from what source will true peace come, and how? is it just an unrealistic dream to believe that everlasting peace is possible?  Not if we turn to the right source of peace. And who is that? Psalm 46:9 answers by telling us that Jehovah "is making wars to cease the extremity of the earth. The bow he breaks apart and does cut the spear in pieces; the wagons he burns in the fire." And Jehovah has already started the process to end wars and establish true peace. How?  By installing Christ Jesus on his rightful Kingdom throne in 1914 and by promoting the greatest educational campaign for peace in the history of mankind.  The prophetic words  of Isaiah 54:13 reassures us:  "All your sons will be persons taught by Jehovah, and the peace of your sons will be abundant." 

This prophecy illustrates the principle of cause and effect-that is, every effect has its cause. In this case, Jehovah's teaching-the cause-transforms warlike people into peace-loving people who are at peace with God. The effect is the change of heart that makes people peace lovers.  This teaching  that changes people's hearts and minds is even now spreading worldwide as millions follow the example of the "Prince of Peace," Jesus Christ. -Isaiah 9:6.

And what did Jesus teach about true peace?  He spoke not merely of peace between nations but of peace between people in their relationships and of inner peace that comes from a good conscience. At John 14:27, we read Jesus' words to his followers:  "I leave you  peace, I give you my peace. I do not give to you the way that the world gives it. Do not let your hearts be troubled no let them shrink for fear." How was Jesus' peace different from that of the world? 

Next time: Conclusion of The Way to Peace

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997