The Significance of Jesus' Greeting: 'Peace Be with You'

The Profound Meaning Behind "Peace Be with You"

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ, after His resurrection, often greeted His disciples with the phrase "Peace be with you." This greeting, rooted in the Hebrew word shalom, was not merely a customary salutation but carried deep spiritual significance. The Greek term eiréné, used in the New Testament, signifies peace, wholeness, and well-being, reflecting the holistic nature of God's peace.

The Context of Jesus' Greeting

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples, who were gathered behind locked doors out of fear. His first words to them were "Peace be with you," which served both as a greeting and an assurance of His presence and protection. This moment is pivotal as Jesus not only greeted them but also showed His wounds, proving His identity and calming their fears:

"On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, 'Peace be with you'" (John 20:19).

This greeting was repeated when Jesus commissioned His disciples to continue His work, empowering them with the Holy Spirit:

"Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.' And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit'" (John 20:21-22).

Instances of Peace in Scripture

The concept of peace is woven throughout the Gospels. Jesus uses it in various contexts:

• In the Commissioning of the Disciples: Jesus instructed His followers to offer peace to homes they entered, discerning the presence of God's peace (Matthew 10:13).
• Healing and Forgiveness: He blessed individuals with peace after acts of faith, like the woman healed of her issue of blood (Mark 5:34) and the repentant woman at the Pharisee's house (Luke 7:50).
• Assurance Before His Departure: Jesus promised His peace, distinct from worldly peace, to His disciples before His crucifixion, ensuring their hearts would not be troubled (John 14:27).

The Everlasting Peace of Christ

Jesus' use of "Peace be with you" underscores His mission to bring eternal salvation and the assurance of God's love. This peace, facilitated by the Holy Spirit, guarantees believers their relationship with Christ, offering comfort and assurance in life's trials. For those seeking this peace, Jesus Himself provides the way:

"I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).

This peace transcends human understanding, offering a connection to God that is unbreakable, providing solace and strength through faith in Jesus Christ.