You asked

what do old testament prophets say about peace, and how does jesus's teaching align or diverge?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Isaiah 9:6

“For to us a child is born. To us a son is given. The government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

This passage is from the prophet Isaiah, written in the 8th century BCE during a time of political instability and threat for the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Isaiah offers messages of both judgment and hope, foretelling a future king who will bring lasting peace and justice.

What does this ancient expectation of a 'Prince of Peace' stir in your own hope for a more peaceful world today?

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Read alongside it

Micah 4:3-4
Describes a future where nations will beat swords into plowshares and learn war no more, sitting peacefully under their vines and fig trees.
Jeremiah 6:14
Warns against those who offer a superficial peace, saying 'Peace, peace' when there is no true peace, highlighting the difference between false and genuine peace.
Matthew 5:9
Jesus blesses the peacemakers, connecting active peace-making with being called children of God, aligning with the quality of the 'Prince of Peace'.

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