“If a grain of wheat falls in the ground and dies, it yields a rich harvest” (John 12:24*).
“Love one another as I have loved you. . . . No greater love than to lay down your life” (John 15:12-13).
“By the blood of Christ we have been brought close together. He is the peace between us, breaking down barriers that used to keep us apart, . . . restoring peace through the cross” (Ephesians 2:13-16).
“Those who lose their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel will find life” (Mark 8:35).
“Love your enemies; do good to those who persecute you” (Luke 6:27, 35; Matthew 5:44).
“Pray for those who persecute you; ask God to bless those who insult you” (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28).
“Seek first the Kingdom of God and then all these other things will be given you (Matthew 6:33).
“Forgive others and God will forgive you” (Luke 6:37).
“An eye for an eye? No, don’t try to get even with those who have hurt you” (Matthew 5:38-39).
“Take the log out of your own eye . . .” (Luke 6:42).
“Turn the other cheek; walk the extra mile” (Luke 6:29; Matthew 5:40-42).
“Give to everyone who asks and . . . lend without expecting to be paid back” (Luke 6:30, 35).
“Blessed are the poor, the meek, the gentle . . .” (Matthew 5:3-4, 7).
“but woe to you rich and well-fed” (Luke 6:20-21, 24-25)
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice” (Matthew 5:6).
“Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9).
“Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of right” (Matthew 5:10).
“Integrity will bring peace; justice give lasting security” (Isaiah 32:17).
Questions
- Which of these Scripture passages challenges you most at this moment?
- Which most touches your heart and what does it reveal about the things that make for peace?
- What one thing could you do specifically to put this passage into practice?
