We're continuing to read through the Gospel of John. Today's reading is John 14:15-31.
Peace is not automatic. It is a gift from Jesus ("Peace give I to you."). It is a discipline of mind ("Let not your heart be troubled.").
Peace is more than the absence of conflict or trouble. This is Christ's peace we're discussing. It is superior (". . . not as the world gives . . ."). Christ's peace also means being in right relationship with God (Rom. 5:1, 9) and with people (Eph. 2:13-19) Peace is the pervading awareness of wholeness in every area of life.
The three starting points for this quality of peace are forgiveness of sins, promise of heaven (Jn. 14:1-3), and promise of the Holy Spirit (Jn. 14:16-17, 26).
You can experience Christ's peace. You are exhorted to "Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart" (Col. 3:15). Peace is part of the Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22).
Questions for Consideration:
1. In what area is Christ's peace lacking in your life?
2. Why is there this lack, knowing Christ's peace is available to you?
> Have you lost hope or have you stopped worshiping? (Psa. 42:5, 11; 43:5)
> Is your faith weak? (Jn. 14:1)
> Are you only looking at what's obvious? (2 Cor. 4:18)
> Are you thinking on the right things? (Phil. 4:8)
> Have you stopped praying? (Phil. 4:6-7)
> Did you stop walking in the Spirit? (Gal. 5:16-23)
> Are you thankful? (Col. 3:15 – peace and thanksgiving are mentioned together.)
No comments:
Post a Comment