Written by Dr. John Wai-On Chan (Associate Professor of Theology, Alliance Bible Seminary)
Scriptures reading:
16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.’
16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.’
The cross of Christ marks the end of all hatred in the world. In Ephesians, Paul uses the Greek word ἀποκτείνας, meaning ‘to put to death’, a term that can also be translated as ‘killing’. Yes, the cross killed Christ our Lord, but through this very act, hatred itself was put to death, making peace possible. True and lasting peace requires that hatred be destroyed entirely. The cross is not merely a symbol of forgiveness or substitutionary atonement. According to the ‘Christus Victor’ view on redemption, Christ’s crucifixion was a cosmic victory over darkness and death, and a decisive strike against hatred. Of course, hatred does not simply vanish through words. The Bible teaches that the elimination of hatred came at a great cost: God Himself paid the price. His Son was nailed to the cross, so that all darkness, death, and hatred would be crucified with Him. Then, through Christ’s resurrection, a new beginning and renewed hope were made possible for the world.
Therefore, as the community of the cross, we must understand that the peace we proclaim is never just a slogan. It demands something from us, sometimes even a sacrifice. The very act of taking up the cross is an implication of peace. This peace is not a mere phrase we carry; it is a way of life that calls us to give of ourselves at any moment. Still, when we offer ourselves for the sake of peace, we must remember that such a sacrifice pales in comparison to what Christ has already accomplished on the cross. Christ’s cross has already overturned the powers of darkness and destroyed hatred. It has already ushered in true peace. Thus, we pursue this peace with our lives, responding to the cross.
Let me say this: Do not lose heart! Offering yourself for peace is always worth it!
Let’s Think
- What are you willing to give for peace in the world? Do you believe the ultimate reality of this world is peace?
- Does your life reflect that belief?
