Jesus- the Prince of Peace and Goodwill?

What did Jesus say about peace?

Answer

1. "Peace on earth, good will toward men." --This Christmas message from Luke 2:14 contradicts Jesus himself.
2. "Don't think that I came for peace on earth. I came to start wars." --Are these the words of a good man?

"Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword." (Matthew 10:34) "I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division." (Luke 12:49-51) These words, by the way, come immediately after Jesus talked about beating slaves.

But my understanding is that Jesus is not talking about starting some kind of holy war. He knew that many would not like his message and would be divided. Jesus deliberately made many seemingly outlandish statements to make people think. Prince of Peace? Yes, but also a revolutionary.