Matthew 5:9

This is the seventh of the beatitudes, and seven was the number of perfection among the Hebrews. It may be that the Savior placed the peacemaker seventh on the list because he most nearly approaches the perfect man in Christ Jesus. He who would have perfect blessedness, as far as it can be enjoyed on earth, must attain to this seventh blessing and become a peacemaker.

There is also significance in the position of this beatitude. The verse that precedes it speaks of the blessedness of the pure in heart: for they shall see God. It is well to understand that we are to be first pure, then peaceable. Our peaceableness must never be a compromise with sin or a toleration of evil.

We must set our faces like flint against everything that is contrary to God and his holiness: purity being a settled matter in our souls, we can then go on to peaceableness.

No less does the verse that follows seem to have been put there on purpose. However peaceable we may be in this world, we will still be misrepresented and misunderstood: and it is no wonder, for even the Prince of Peace, by his very peacefulness, brought fire upon the earth.

He himself, though he loved mankind and did no ill, was despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Therefore, lest the peaceable in heart be surprised when they meet enemies, it is added in the following verse: Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Thus, the peacemakers are not only pronounced blessed, but they are also surrounded with blessings. Lord, give us grace to climb to this seventh beatitude! Purify our minds that we may be first pure, then peaceable, and fortify our souls, so that our peaceableness may not lead us into cowardice and despair when we are persecuted for Your sake.