In an era marked by deep divisions and escalating conflicts, Dennis R. Hoover’s recent article, Christian Peacemaking in a Time of Polarization, offers a timely exploration of how the Christian faith can inspire a path forward. With ongoing crises in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, and rising polarization in places like the United States, Hoover urges Christians to embody a principled approach to peacemaking amid global unrest.
“Many parts of our world today are on fire,” Hoover writes, highlighting the role of increasing polarization, demonization, and media manipulation in creating fragile, conflict-prone environments. He points to alarming trends documented by the Pew Research Center, which reveal a rise in religion-related conflicts and social hostilities.
The Challenge of Living with Difference
Hoover explores a key question: How do we live peacefully with profound differences? Referencing sociologist Peter Berger, he notes two prevalent but problematic responses to diversity: politicized fundamentalism, which seeks to impose religious dominance, and ideological relativism, which oversimplifies disagreements under the guise of tolerance.
Instead, Hoover advocates for a robust paradigm of pluralism, a framework that recognizes deep disagreements while fostering respectful coexistence. “The Christian faith speaks directly to this third, better way,” he asserts, describing it as an ethos rooted in peacemaking and reconciliation.
Peacemaking: A Core Christian Ethos
Central to Hoover’s argument is the call for Christians to embrace their role as ambassadors of peace. Grounded in Jesus’ teachings—”Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9)—this form of peacemaking transcends political power and idolatrous fusions of religion and nationalism.
Hoover emphasizes a proactive, courageous engagement with others, rooted in faith and humility. “Ambassadors of peace plant seeds of hope for transformation and reconciliation,” he writes, even in the most stubbornly intractable conflicts.
However, this hope is tempered by realism. Citing the Apostle Paul’s teaching in Romans 12:18—“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone”—Hoover acknowledges that peace may not always be achievable but stresses the importance of striving for it nonetheless.
A Vision for the Future
Christian peacemaking, according to Hoover, requires a balance of wisdom and innocence, as commanded by Jesus in Matthew 10:16: “Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” It is a call to action for Christians to reject pessimism while embracing humility and faith.
In a time when the world appears increasingly divided, Hoover’s article serves as both a challenge and a source of hope, urging Christians to take up the mantle of peacemakers and work toward a future characterized by reconciliation and unity.
As Hoover concludes, being an ambassador of peace is not about naivety but about having “a humble confidence rooted in faith in Christ,” one that dares to engage differences with love, courage, and hope.