In view of the desperate and dangerous state of the world, we need to consider an alternative to what appear to be intractable situations world-wide. Who yet in all the many negotiations, contacts or policy implementations over the years of conflict, not just in the Middle East, but world-wide, has shown that he or she has the wisdom to present and implement lasting beneficial peace?
Well, read these words from Isaiah 9:6 which refer to Jesus...
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
When he returns, Jesus will not be a roving ambassador or Minister; God through Isaiah says he will be a Prince of Peace. Angels sang of peace on earth (Luke 2:14). We have the assurance that the Bible shows us that God keeps his promises. There is this assurance of peace during the time that Jesus will return. Isaiah 11:6-9 , one example, begins The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid;. This may be understood in different ways by different people - animals may change their physical and / or natural characteristics. People will in that respect have to change their characteristics - the new relationship cannot be a one-sided affair.
The Bible tells us of freedom and peace in the way of health, the giving of spiritual food and spiritual and bodily health - peace of mind and body (Isaiah 35:4-6). The period after Jesus returns will enable those who will, to learn how to live as they were intended to (Isaiah 65:20-22 ).
Because of the fair way Jesus will rule, peace should be evident. Wrongdoing will have to be ‘learned out of’ the mind. Revelation tells of the overthrow of wrongdoing and eventually death itself (Revelation 20:1-3). When you read that passage you will see the term ‘Satan’, which symbolises the wrongdoing within all people.
There will be responsibilities for those chosen to assist Jesus in the working out of God’s purpose at that time. Putting right a world that has been seriously mismanaged for so long will require tremendous efforts. The preparation to be undertaken at present is indicated by Jesus & recorded in Matthew 19:27-29. Jesus there was speaking to the apostles, but there will be similar work roles helping to lead countless numbers of people towards the prospect of peace and immortality during the 1000 years following Jesus’ return. There is a need for self-denial now in preparation for responsibility then.
If we suffer we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: (2 Timothy 2:11-12)
See also Revelation 5:9-10; Revelation 20:6.
There will still be imperfections in many mortal people of the 1000 year Kingdom. During the 1000 years, learning how to live righteously amongst the many peoples and cultures, as well as all the former rulers and nations small and great, will be an interesting time. (Isaiah 2:2-4 ). The prospect is compelling.
Christadelphians believe the Bible shows that there is a viable alternative to present day efforts to resolve the many intractable situations world-wide.