People Pleasing

There is a huge difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper.

The Bible tells us to be peacemakers. Some people confuse this with being a peacekeeper. A peacekeeper does not want anyone to fight, be conflicted, have confrontation, or live out experiences that upset them. In order to keep the peace they believe that as long as everyone is happy then everything is okay. When confronted with a problem a peace keeper’s default is to not appear to take any side. Inadvertently by saying nothing at all it is perceived that they agree. It’s impossible to be a peacekeeper.

Think about it…

Have you ever been anywhere where every one was happy with everything that was going on? Happiness is subjective and making people happy, especially a lot of people, is a moving target way off on the horizon. Peacekeeping is a temporary peace and a false peace because in conflict people absorb peacekeeping as an agreement to subdue what is underneath.

Now think about Jesus. He “is” the Prince of Peace but when he told the truth it did not make everyone happy. His followers were bold and told the truth in love. This led to martyrdom as well as conflict not just for his followers but for Jesus for whom this world was made by. God made peace through his Son.

The burning and sometimes dividing truth of the Gospel “is” the peacemaker. Anything outside of the Gospel is peacekeeping.

Tell people the truth. Let people know where they stand. Don’t say things you think they want to hear. Don’t subject your obedience to Christ to the scrutiny of every one’s approval. Be loyal to the Gospel. The Gospel is peace.