2002-12-25 - Peace

Passages Related to Advent, Part 4

They were expecting a powerful, political Messiah. God sent them a Prince of Peace, born in an humble stable. The Peace of Christ is not a peace that means "never rocking the boat;" Christ Himself rocked a lot of boats, but always at the leading of His Heavenly Father. It is not a peace that precludes confrontation; in fact, sometimes it requires loving confrontation and standing for what is right. It is a peace that doesn't depend on external circumstances or political conditions. It is is a peace that broke down the wall between a holy God and an unholy people (us), and a peace of the heart. In the final part of our Advent series, we will read some Biblical passages about peace.

Isaiah 9:6 (NASB)  For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Luke 2:7-11 (NASB) And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Colossians 1:19-20 (NASB) For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.

John 14:26-27 (NASB) But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

Galations 5:22-23 NASB) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NASB) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Jan

 jan@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org