John Calvin Commentary Matthew 5:9

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called sons of God." — Matthew 5:9 (ASV)

Happy are the peacemakers: by peacemakers, He means those who not only seek peace and avoid quarrels, as far as it is in their power, but who also labor to settle differences among others, advise everyone to live at peace, and remove every occasion for hatred and strife.

There are good reasons for this statement. Since it is a laborious and tiresome task to reconcile those who are in disagreement, people of a mild disposition, who strive to promote peace, are compelled to endure the indignity of hearing reproaches, complaints, and protests from all sides. The reason for this is that everyone would desire to have advocates who would defend their cause.

So that we may not depend on human approval, Christ tells us to look to the judgment of His Father, who is the God of peace (Romans 15:33) and who accounts us His children when we cultivate peace, even if our efforts are not acceptable to people. For to be called means to be accounted the children of God.