THE PEACE OF CHRIST

As we embark on the Via study the Mosaic staff has developed from now until Easter, keep in mind that just as a tree is known by the fruit it produces, similarly people are also known.  Galatians 5:22-23 says, “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”

These fruits are manifested in our lives by the Holy Spirit living inside of us.  It is Christ living through (via) our mortal bodies and bringing honor to Him.  For purposes of this blog reflecting this week’s sermon by Pastor Mark, we will focus today on peace.  

Philippians 4:7 says,  “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

His peace shouldn’t be an infrequent surprise.  2 Thessalonians 3:16 says,  “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way.”

There seems to be more anger and strife today than at any time in my life (and I’m an old guy). It seems that external stimuli most times push us toward lives of conflict and stress.  It’s a devilish tactic and one, as Christ-followers, to which we don’t have to succumb. Christ lives in us and wants to live through us.  Spiritual disciplines that we can employ to defend against such attacks by the oppressor are reading God’s Word, internalizing it, meditating on it, and praying it.

Pastor Mark led us into this series using Isaiah 61, which forms the foundation of Christ being the author of peace.  Other relevant Scripture within Isaiah is found in chapter 9, verse 6, where some of the names of Christ are pronounced, including Prince of Peace; and chapter 53, verse 5, which notes how Christ is crushed for our iniquities, and upon him was the chastisement that brings us peace. 

What does all of this Scripture say about peace?  God has paid the price for our peace.  

So, if we don’t have peace, has God paid the price in vain? As always, God has made a way. We should live with His peace at all times.