Zmartwychwstanie a pokój w świetle czwartej Ewangelii

Abstract

The article concerns the eschatological aspect of peace and its paschal dimension, owing to the relationship between peace and resurrection of Christ. The analyses are based upon the episode of giving peace to the Apostles by the Risen Christ (John 20:19—23). The meaning of that scene, according to John’s theology and symbolism, reveals certain features of peace. First of all Christ’s peace is a messianic gift, which cannot be identified with quietism or apparent serenity achieved by unreal mysticism. Messianic peace brings closer to men the dynamic nature of God revealed mostly in the Paschal Mystery of Christ. The second point refers to the importance of Christ’s presence for receiving peace. The appearance of the Risen testifies His victory over death, sin and over the state of war between God and men. A man can participate in that peace due to the union with Christ, which is expressed by knowing, ginōskein, Him and His paschal truth. To know that truth means to keep Christ’s words, rhēmata (words and facts), with the help of the Holy Spirit — the Paraclete.