TEXT: John 14:25-27
READING: Colossians 3:1-17
SUBJ: The fact and nature of the Peace of God that Jesus gives to His people.
AIM: That we know and enjoy this peace that we have through the presence of Christ and through the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
INTR:
1. A definition of peace: Peace can be a state of harmony or the absence of hostility. "Peace" can also be a non-violent way of life. "Peace" is used to describe the cessation of violent conflict. Peace can mean a state of quiet or tranquility — an absence of disturbance or agitation. Peace can also describe a relationship between any people characterized by respect, justice, and goodwill. Peace can describe calmness, serenity, and silence. This latter understanding of peace can also pertain to an individual's sense of himself or herself, as to be "at peace" with one's own mind. (Wikipedia)
2. This and more were implied in the congratulatory message of the Angels at His birth – compare this with the customary salutations (shalom) and what is often said without force.
3. Peace is not a characteristic of fallen man. Yet, the Prince of Peace is able to incorporate His own peace into the very being of those He saves.
THESIS: There is no salvation apart from peace with God and the peace of God. We are comforted by the Holy Spirit with the knowledge that both are accomplished in the person and work of Christ our Lord.
I. The source of Peace (vv. 25-26)
1. In His physical presence these things: Identity (Philip), of the Spirit, and of Love and the commandments. This was something that they would remember later.
2. But the comforter is to be seen as one who consoles, who reassures and who seeks the peace of those to whom He ministers.
1) Why He is come – sent by the Father
2) Why was He sent – In the name of the Son (at the request of the Son) in view of Who He is and what He has done.
3) What does He do – teaches and reminds of Christ.
4) How is His work distinct – He makes these truths to live within and comfort the believer: John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
II. The presence of Peace (v. 27a) (Lange’s comm... renders this as “A peace I leave with you)
1. Of peace with God as we consider the need of reconciliation: Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: (note that faith brings the knowledge of this peace.)
2. The message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;)
1) In much of today’s preaching men are not confronted with the need to be reconciled to God
2) It is no coincidence that these words were spoken in the shadow of the cross.
3) The message is that Christ has complied with the terms of peace for us.
3. Thus, the Gospel is believed and peace is given: Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
4. Faith brings the Covenant of Peace (contract) into view and appropriates it: Ezekiel 37:26 Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore. AND Hebrews 13:20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
5. Thus – “…we see Jesus”
III. The possession of Peace (v. 27b)
1. Compare and contrast a left peace (see above) and a given experienced peace (See again John 6:63)
2. “His peace” is that we see that which He personally possesses and expresses.
1) It is with regard that a Kingdom is given Him – answer to Pilate.
2) His work and what it accomplishes is assured by the Father.
3) The purpose of the Father is eternal and will not be frustrated.
3. The idea of “I give” is that of a continual giving:
1) The work of the Spirit is to bring the presence of Christ to us. He was leaving but He was coming to them in a different way and never departing.
2) And so, it is a living and enduring peace.
4. Compare the empty greetings, well wishes and salutations of the world.
IV. The results of peace (v. 27c)
1. “Let not your heart be troubled…” (see verse 1). Do not be troubled for the things that have been or that now appear.
2. “…neither let it be afraid.” Or tremble for that which is in the future. Our Peace (who is Christ) cannot be broken.
3. We do well to remember: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
4. We seek peace and assurance from Christ only.
