Peace, I leave with You

​Text: John 14:23-29
Service Date: 5.25.25
Sermon:

• Today we are receiving one of the greatest gifts that Jesus offers us, peace. When many of us think of peace, we have a very simple, easy-to-understand definition of peace. Yet, this passage gives us a different understanding of the concept of peace. 
• In this scripture we see that Jesus offers us peace. The word “peace” literally means, “The binding or joining together again of that which had been separated or divided and thus setting at one again.”
• Eirene (peace) can convey the sense of an inner rest, well-being and harmony. The ultimate peace is the state of reconciliation with God.
• Peace is a condition of freedom from disturbance, whether outwardly, as of a nation from war or enemies or inwardly, as in the current context, within the soul. In this passage, I believe that Jesus is referencing the inward healing of our soul.
• It is not only through our relationship with the Holy Spirit that we are offered peace, but it is also through the Holy Spirit that we are able to accept the peace that is offered to us.
• In this context, it seems that the Holy Spirit’s primary task is “the disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of anyone.” This is experienced when we find peace through the Holy Spirit. In the moments that we are interacting with the Holy Spirit, we are allowing the Holy Spirit to influence our own spiritual development, creating and monitoring our peace.
• Another role of the Holy Spirit is that the Holy Spirit would teach the disciples what more they needed to know and would also supernaturally bring to remembrance the words of Jesus, both for their own benefit and for the writing of the Gospels.
• This means that the work of the Spirit would be a work of continuation. The teaching of the Holy Spirit would continue to remind us of what Jesus already taught. The Spirit does not wipe clear the previous teaching of Jesus and begin again.
• When we receive the peace of the Holy Spirit, we are ensuring that we continue to grow spiritually. When we listen to the whispers of the Holy Spirit, we are strengthened and empowered with the teachings of Jesus.
• It is through the Holy Spirit that we can fully connect with the teachings of Jesus, connecting with the fully purpose of his words, not just for this life, but the life to come. We can connect with Jesus’ teaching for the physical world as well as the spiritual realm. In that connection of the physical world and the spiritual realm, we can find peace.
•  Today Jesus offers us peace; a peace that surpasses all understanding. A peace that heals the soul and in turn impacts the body. A peace that rebuilds relationships. A peace that binds us to God through the Holy Spirit and connects us to the body of believers. Will you receive the peace that Jesus offers us today?

 
Conclusion: Let us be people who accepts God’s peace and seeks peace in all relationships.