Let this peace rule.

John Farley
Pastor-Teacher
Sunday,
January 27, 2019

 

Let this peace rule

Col 3:15

  1. What is the peace of Christ?
  2. Why do we need the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts?
  3. How do we let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts?
  4. What is the peace of Christ?

peace with God (reconciliation),
peace between people, and peace in our hearts.

eirene

A state of concord: peace and harmony. Often used in NT for harmony between people.

Eph 2:11-22

Jew and Gentile reconciled to one another –
peace between people.

Jew and Gentile together in one body reconciled to God. Peace with God.

We have been reconciled to God through the cross of His Son.

Col 1:18-22
Rom 5:1-5

The peace with God results from the fact that we have been justified by faith.

These are all matters of the heart.

A state of well-being.

It means all of the grace and blessing which we have in Christ.

It is a state of freedom from anxiety and inner turmoil. And freedom from worry.

We have this peace as a fruit of the Spirit. He produces this peace in us.

Paul uses eirene to mean the restful state of a contented heart, assured of salvation through Christ.

We have been redeemed, we have been reconciled - and we KNOW IT!

Nothing will ever come between us and the love of God in Christ Jesus.

This word “eirene” or peace is a word that is perhaps best defined by what it is NOT. What the opposite of this peace is.

  • War
  • Conflict
  • Tribulation in the world
  • Sorrow
  • A troubled heart
  • A fearful heart
  • Grief
  • Anguish and distress
  • Anxiety
  • Inner turmoil
  • Worry
  • Distraction
  • Disturbance
  • Confusion
  • Doubt
  • Double-mindedness
  • Jealousy
  • Selfish ambition
  • Tumult and uproar
  • Splits
  • Divisions
  • Strife

But most have to do with what is going on in our hearts.

This is why we need to have the peace of Christ ruling in our hearts.

HOW do we LET the peace of Christ rule in our hearts?

In Philippians chapter 4 verses 4-9, we find the instructions.

Phi 4:4-9

verse 4 does NOT say to rejoice always about your circumstances.

Rejoice about who He is.

Rejoice about the things He has done for us.
 

Rejoice about the promises He has made to us.

How does this help with worry and fear and distress?

Allowing this gentleness to rule the day will calm your heart.

And when you are afraid or distraught, remind yourself that the Lord is near.

Be anxious for nothing. Well OK.
That’s easier said than done.

ASK the Lord for what you need!

Gratitude can be very peaceful!
It is a confidence builder and it chases fear away.

Rom 8:26-39

Phi 4:6-9

So take a few minutes today and obsess about these things.

 

 


© Lighthouse Bible Church of South Florida, Inc. / John Farley • lbible.org • All rights reserved.