252
The Desire of Ages
“Blessed are the peacemakers.” The peace of Christ is born of
truth. It is harmony with God. The world is at enmity with the law
of God; sinners are at enmity with their Maker; and as a result they
[303]
[304]
[305]
are at enmity with one another. But the psalmist declares, “Great
peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall offend them.”
Psalm 119:165
. Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for
the purification and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of
producing peace, because they do not reach the heart. The only power
that can create or perpetuate true peace is the grace of Christ. When
this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil passions that
cause strife and dissension. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir
tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree;” and life’s
desert “shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.”
Isaiah 55:13
;
35:1
.
The multitudes were amazed at this teaching, which was so at
variance with the precepts and example of the Pharisees. The people
had come to think that happiness consisted in the possession of the
things of this world, and that fame and the honor of men were much to
be coveted. It was very pleasing to be called “Rabbi,” and to be extolled
as wise and religious, having their virtues paraded before the public.
This was regarded as the crown of happiness. But in the presence of
that vast throng, Jesus declared that earthly gain and honor were all the
reward such persons would ever receive. He spoke with certainty, and
a convincing power attended His words. The people were silenced,
and a feeling of fear crept over them. They looked at one another
doubtfully. Who of them would be saved if this Man’s teachings were
true? Many were convicted that this remarkable Teacher was actuated
by the Spirit of God, and that the sentiments He uttered were divine.
After explaining what constitutes true happiness, and how it may be
obtained, Jesus more definitely pointed out the duty of His disciples, as
teachers chosen of God to lead others into the path of righteousness and
eternal life. He knew that they would often suffer from disappointment
and discouragement, that they would meet with decided opposition,
that they would be insulted, and their testimony rejected. Well He
knew that in the fulfillment of their mission, the humble men who
listened so attentively to His words were to bear calumny, torture,
imprisonment, and death, and He continued:
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake:
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall