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This week we are seeking to understand one of the fruits of the Spirit — peace. Sometimes, to understand something, we need to look at the opposite. If I asked you to name the opposite of peace, what would you say? Would you say “war”? I think most people would. However, 1 Corinthians 14:33 uses a different word as the contrast to peace. It is translated “confusion” or “disorder.” What does this look like?
Have you ever been to a meeting where people were all talking at once? Or where people constantly interrupt others? Perhaps you’ve seen television reports of a meeting disrupted by protestors. Disruptions in the orderly flow of a meeting make it hard to follow what’s going on! This can be especially distressing if emotions are running high and people are speaking in anger. The discord and confusion sets everyone on edge!
For followers of Jesus, maintaining peace within the church is very important. That is why 1 Corinthians 14 provides rules of order for the somewhat chaotic worship practices at the church in Corinth. In explaining the reason for the rules, Paul writes in verse 33, “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.”(NIV)
You see, peace is positive, conflict-free relationships between people. God’s Spirit works to keep your heart at peace and to keep the peace among God’s people.
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Bumper music “Landing Place” performed by Mark July, used under license from Shutterstock.