Peace
Key Takeaways
Biblical peace is not the absence of stress but the presence of Christ
We need peace because we are:
Alienated from God by nature
Bound to our sinful desires
Conflicted with God, others, and ourselves
Three time zones steal our peace:
Past: Unconfessed sin and painful memories
Present: Unwelcome circumstances
Future: Worry and covetousness
We receive peace, we don't manufacture it.
Jesus is our peace through his finished work on the cross
Study Questions
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John describes guilt as a warning system designed by God to alert us rather than crush us. When have you experienced guilt as a helpful alarm rather than a condemning voice, and how did confession restore peace?
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Corrie Ten Boom's father taught her that God gives grace precisely when we need it, not before. Why do we tend to demand 'train tickets' for trains we haven't yet boarded, and how can we trust God's timing for future grace?
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Scripture instructs us to pray with thanksgiving, noting that you cannot be anxious and grateful at the same time. How might cultivating a practice of gratitude in prayer loosen anxiety's grip on your heart?
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John's dialysis machine illustration shows that Christ does the cleansing work completely, while we contribute nothing except staying connected. How does this understanding of grace challenge self-help approaches to spiritual growth and peace?
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Philippians 4:7 promises that the peace of God will guard your hearts and minds, not the peace of understanding. When have you experienced a peace that didn't make logical sense given your circumstances, and what did that teach you about God's character?
Seeking God’s Face Devotional
This year, we’ll be using the devotional Seeking God’s Face for our personal daily discipleship. Learn more about this devotional and how to use it, and follow along with us!
This Week’s Liturgy
Call to worship
Psalm 46:10-11
Leader: Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
All: The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Confession of FAITH | the new city catechism question of the week
New City Catechism Q & A #6
Q: How can we glorify God?
A: We glorify God by enjoying him, loving him, trusting him, and by obeying his will, commands, and law.
Confession of sin
God of peace, we confess that by nature we are alienated from you, in bondage to our sinful desires, and in conflict with you, others, and ourselves. Like the tossing sea, we cannot find rest. We have let our anxiety drive us away from you, white-knuckling our way through life. We now bring our burdens to you. Forgive us through Christ's blood, and grant us your peace. Amen.
ASSURANCE OF PARDON
Psalm 103:8
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
This Week’s Playlist
Looking Ahead
Join us next week as we continue to explore Fruit of the Spirit.