What are the Channels of Peace
described in Scripture?

Question: What are the Channels of Peace described in Scripture?

Answer:

The phrase "Channels of Peace" does not appear as a formal list or specific term in the Bible. It is most famously associated with the non-scriptural Prayer of St. Francis: "Lord, make me a channel of your peace."

However, based on your request, you may be looking for one of two things: the specific "Four Channels of Peace" model used in some biblical counseling/Reformed traditions, or the general biblical theology of how God's peace is mediated to and through believers.

1. The "Four Channels of Peace" Framework

There is a specific model used in some biblical counseling contexts (associated with Covenant theology and sometimes linked to Peacemaker Ministries principles) that organizes the sources of peace into four "channels." If you are recalling a specific list, this is likely it:

Channel Role Biblical Basis
1. Christ The Good Shepherd who equips and justifies us. Romans 5:1 ("Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ")
2. The Church Shepherds (pastors/elders) who guide and protect the flock. Ephesians 4:11-12; Hebrews 13:17
3. Counselors Wise believers trained by Scripture to give guidance. Romans 15:14; Proverbs 11:14
4. Confessions Agreed-upon truths (Doctrines/Creeds) that provide objective hope. 2 Timothy 1:13 ("Follow the pattern of the sound words")

2. The "Prayer of St. Francis" Connection

Most people use the phrase "Channel of Peace" (or "Instrument of Peace") to refer to the famous prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. While the prayer itself is not in the Bible, its petitions are deeply rooted in Scripture:

  • "Where there is hatred, let me sow love" (See Luke 6:27)
  • "Where there is injury, pardon" (See Colossians 3:13)
  • "Where there is doubt, faith" (See Jude 1:22)
  • "Where there is despair, hope" (See Romans 15:13)
  • "Where there is darkness, light" (See Matthew 5:14)
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3. Biblical Theology: How Peace is Channeled

If you are looking for a general biblical answer on how peace flows, Scripture describes peace (shalom) as flowing from God, through Christ, into the believer, and out to the world.

  • The Source: God is the "God of Peace" (Philippians 4:9).
  • The Mediator (Channel to us): Jesus Christ is the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). We only have peace with God through Him (Romans 5:1).
  • The Internal Channel: The Holy Spirit produces peace as a "fruit" within us (Galatians 5:22).
  • The External Channel (Us): Believers are called to be active "Peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9), serving as channels of reconciliation to others (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).

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