True Peace in Christ: Understanding Shalom – A Biblical Perspective with Prof. Dion Forster
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In this episode of the Get Up and Go Breakfast program on Radio Cape Pulpit, host Anton Brink speaks with Professor Dion Forster (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Stellenbosch University) about the profound question: "When we pray for peace, what exactly are we praying for?"
Prof. Forster distinguishes between negative peace (the absence of war, conflict, or anxiety) and the biblical concept of Shalom – a much richer and more positive reality. He draws from John 14:27, where Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives." This statement was made on the night of Jesus' betrayal, knowing Judas would betray Him, Peter would deny Him, and the cross awaited Him – yet He still offered His peace.
Shalom, rooted in Jewish scripture, means wholeness, well-being, flourishing, and right relationship with God, with others, and with the world. It includes justice and the fullness of life that God intended for humanity. Forster encourages listeners to pray for Shalom in their families, relationships, workplaces, and communities – but also to act, just as Jesus said, "Come, let us leave" (John 14:31). True peace is not passive; it requires us to get up, reach out, and pursue reconciliation and wholeness in Christ.
Prof. Forster distinguishes between negative peace (the absence of war, conflict, or anxiety) and the biblical concept of Shalom – a much richer and more positive reality. He draws from John 14:27, where Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives." This statement was made on the night of Jesus' betrayal, knowing Judas would betray Him, Peter would deny Him, and the cross awaited Him – yet He still offered His peace.
Shalom, rooted in Jewish scripture, means wholeness, well-being, flourishing, and right relationship with God, with others, and with the world. It includes justice and the fullness of life that God intended for humanity. Forster encourages listeners to pray for Shalom in their families, relationships, workplaces, and communities – but also to act, just as Jesus said, "Come, let us leave" (John 14:31). True peace is not passive; it requires us to get up, reach out, and pursue reconciliation and wholeness in Christ.
