The Bible speaks about peace in Israel both in a present spiritual and physical context and in a future prophetic context. It highlights the longing for peace and the ultimate hope for lasting peace that comes through the Messiah.
Present and Past Peace
- The Bible records that God gave Israel peace from their enemies surrounding them at times (e.g., Joshua 23:1-16) when Israel obeyed God's commandments, though this peace was often temporary and conditional on Israel's faithfulness.
- The psalmist encourages believers to actively pray for the peace of Jerusalem, emphasizing not just the absence of conflict but holistic peace, including safety, well-being, and harmony within Israel (Psalm 122:6-8).
Prophetic and Future Peace
- The Bible prophesies a future peace plan involving Israel that will be part of end-time events, including a seven-year covenant proposed by a leader known as the Antichrist, who will eventually break this covenant causing great tribulation (Daniel 9:24-27; Matthew 24:15-21).
- Isaiah 9:6 refers to the coming Messiah as the "Prince of Peace," indicating that everlasting peace for Israel and the entire world will come with His reign.
- The final peace will be a spiritual and eternal peace, connected with the salvation and restoration of Israel, when the Jewish people recognize Jesus (Yeshua) as their Messiah (Zechariah 12:10; Romans 11:26).
- The peace God desires for Israel encompasses more than just political peace; it includes spiritual peace and completeness, a harmony resulting from God's presence and salvation among His people.
Encouragement to Pray for Peace
- Believers are encouraged to pray for peace in Jerusalem and Israel, asking God to bring security, unity, and spiritual transformation to the land and its people (Psalm 122:6-8).
- This prayer aligns with God's promises and the hopeful vision of peace in the future Messianic kingdom.
In summary, the Bible recognizes the challenges to peace in Israel but holds forth a vision of ultimate and everlasting peace that will come through the Messiah's reign. Meanwhile, believers are called to pray earnestly for peace in Israel and Jerusalem, trusting in God's plan and promises.
