The Missing Peace: Overview
ONLY IN JESUS CAN WE HAVE PEACE, MAKE PEACE AND BRING PEACE.
SERIES MEDIA: WEEK 1 | WEEK 2 | WEEK 3
WEEK 1: HAVE PEACE – LISTEN OR WATCH
“Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” – John 5:21
Sometimes,the Bible is just flat out confusing and it even seems to contradict itself. Take for example peace. Did Jesus come to the earth to bring peace or not? And if Jesus really was here to bring peace….why isn’t it here yet? We’d all like to have peace – in our world, in our country, in our neighborhood, in our marriage, in our home, and in our minds….but how do we get it?
A Jewish person would define peace as much, much more than the lack of fighting. They would say that it’s not just the absence of something….it’s the inclusion of many things. It’s completeness – it’s wholeness. “Shalom” is the Hebrew word that is translated into our word “peace”. We’ll define PEACE / SHALOM simply as “the way things are supposed to be”.
Jews believed that there was once true shalom in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve (Gen 1:31). This shalom was broken when Adam & Eve turned away from God and ate of the forbidden fruit (Gen 3:6). This was the first sin and the point in which sin entered the world for the first time…..breaking Shalom. Because of that sin – everything broke…..evil, war, sickness, tragedy, suffering, pain, injustice, guilt, lust, and even death – entered the world. Because of Sin —> Shalom ended (Rom 5:12)
The Jews longed for a way for Shalom to return. God had promised to send them a Messiah to His chosen people (pick your fav messianic prophesy :-). They waited for thousands of years……generation after generation….they waited. And then…..Jesus of Nazareth (John 1:41). But they weren’t sure it was the Messiah. And it sure didn’t look like it when Jesus was arrested, crucified, and buried.
But Jesus rose from the dead and appeared before his disciples and others over a 40-day period (Matt 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20). When appearing in a locked room before His disciples, the risen Jesus repeats the phrase “Peace be with you” three times (John 20:19, John 20:21, John 20:26). Just as Jesus was sent by His Father (God) bring peace, He called His disciples to to go out into the world…..to reach others….to share peace (John 20:21).
One of Jesus’ Jewish disciples, Thomas, makes a profound statement when he declares Jesus as “My Lord and My God!” (John 20:28). He acknowledges Jesus as one true Creator God of the Universe. Only God could have restored the shalom that was broken in the Garden and He needed to die on a cross to accomplish it (Luke 24: 44-47). The best way to restore shalom, to bring things back to the way they were supposed to be, was to fix the root cause by addressing the sin of man. Jesus came so that all who trust Him can have peace!
WEEK 2: MAKE PEACE – LISTEN OR WATCH
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Peacemakers are those who actively pursue God-glorifying, Christ-centered, cross-focused peace with God, with the people of God and with all men. They preserve peace where it is and bring peace where it is not.
Beware of PEACEBREAKING (Romans 16:17-18) and PEACEFAKING (Jeremiah 6:14).
THREE ARENAS IN WHICH WE ARE TO “MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO DO WHAT LEADS TO PEACE” (Romans 14:19):
- Pursue peace with God – Romans 5:1
- Pursue peace with the people of God – 1 Peter 3:8-11, Romans 12:16, Colossians 3:15
- Pursue peace with all men – Romans 12:18, Hebrews 12:14
PEACEMAKING IS MISSIONAL: John 20:19-21, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20, Romans 10:13-15
GOD’S TERMS FOR PEACE – THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST: Isaiah 52:7, Ephesians 2:14-17
As sons & daughters of the living God, our identity in Christ is foundational to peacemaking; we do not make peace in order to become peacemakers, rather, we make peace because it is intrinsic to our identity in Christ. As peacemakers, we are representing and emulating Jesus, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), the son of the God of Peace (Romans 15:33, Philippians 4:9, 1 Thessalonians 5:23).
Peacemaking is not ushering in the absence of pain and conflict, but rather bringing peace into places of conflict, despite the pain – whether our own or others’. If the peace we have or the peace we bring comes only from a circumstance or situation, then a situation or a circumstance can take that peace away. Therefore, have, make and bring peace that rests in the power and grace of the gospel.
WEEK 3: BRING PEACE – LISTEN OR WATCH
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10
In bringing peace, peacemakers can expect persecution. This is not necessarily the general persecution we all experience by living in a broken world; rather, this specific persecution will be directly related to the righteousness that we have in Jesus. (Matthew 5:10-12, 2 Timothy 3:12)
There are 2 general responses to righteousness – and thus to peacemaking – being inserted into a broken world. People will come to the light or they will hate the light (John 3:19-21, 2 Corinthians 2:15-16).
Despite the promise of persecution, we are called to go out into the word and be SALT & LIGHT (Matthew 5:13-16). Salt adds flavor and acts as a preservative. Light illuminates, holds back darkness.
The most foundational step to having peace in your life is to receive the peace that only comes through a relationship with Jesus Christ, then we must circle back to that constantly.
Men’s Ministry News – October 2013
The Men’s Ministry would like to invite you to some upcoming activities that have been designed to positively and encouragingly impact your walk with the Lord and in turn your spheres of influence.
WEEKLY DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES
Men’s Ministry weekly discipleship classes are a great way to get connected and increase your knowledge of the word and provide you with some mid-week encouragement. No previous experience or Bible knowledge is required; all you need is a willingness to grow and be challenged. For a course listing and full details, please visit www.restonbible.org/men.
- FUEL – The Journey to Authentic Manhood Continues. Current Series: Living a Life with Purpose; On Purpose – What road are you on? Where are you headed? Every one of us is on a road – and every road we are on is taking us somewhere. Where do you want to go, and what is the right road to get there? Join us for this workshop to help us create a framework for the future state of our lives. It’s about being intentional, on purpose, and the next step is up to you. At FUEL, our desire is to help men grow and live to be the Authentic Men God designed them to be as modeled by Jesus Christ. Join us! Tuesdays 6:25-7:30 AM – Sr. High Bldg.
- EXEMPLARY HUSBAND – The home is the most important area of ministry for husbands. It is often also the most difficult. Come out on October 23rd at 7pm in Room 236 for a 13-week study of ‘The Exemplary Husband’. It will be a challenging but also encouraging opportunity to explore how the Lord wants us to lead in our Marriages and Families. For questions or more information, contact Brad Hummel at mensministry@restonbible.org or 703-489-6028.
MARRIAGE BOOSTER
When: Friday, October 18, 2013, 8:00 PM
Where: RBC Sanctuary
Speaker: Pastor Paul Goodnight
Topic Entropy and Other Laws of Marriage
Registration: www.restonbible.org/
Join us for our next Marriage Booster where you’ll enjoy an evening of looking at the laws of marriage that are impacting your relationship, or could impact them in the future. Pastor Paul will lead our time…so you know it won’t be normal.
The booster consists of two parts: 1) An on-your-own dinner date with your spouse where you talk over advance questions provided by our speaker, and 2) a message followed by small group discussion at RBC. Child care reimbursement is provided by RBC as needed and information on the website.
THE SUMMIT
When: October 21, 2013, Monday 7:30-8:30 PM
Speaker: Congressman Daniel Webster of Florida
Topic: “How to Live with Integrity while Under Attack”
Where: RBC Sanctuary
Dinner: 6:30 PM RBC Clubhouse by Famous Dave’s BBQ
Registration: www.restonbible.org/summit
Our speaker will be Daniel Webster who has served as the Speaker of the Florida House and Majority Leader in the Florida Senate. He is currently a conservative congressman in the US House of Representatives where he has served since being elected in 2010. He is known for many things, but Daniel Webster still holds his faith, his family, and his principles as his biggest assets.
Come out and join us on Monday, October 21st, to hear how he views the challenges facing our county and the difference a personal relationship with Jesus has made in the life of a prominent leader in our country. We encourage you to bring a friend or co-worker.
FAITH & REASONING 101
When: Monday, October 14, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Reston Bible Church, Room 238
Topic: God Created Sex…So Let’s Talk About It (Part 2 of 2)
Registration: Please e-mail wgaines@firstportfolio.com to RSVP that you will be attending so that we can plan accordingly.The popular view in our culture is that the Bible is outdated and irrelevant with regards to sex. This month we’re going to look at what our culture says about sex and contrast it with the Bible’s message, and ask, “Who’s Really Looking Out For You?”
Men, women and teens are welcome to join this adult conversation on an important Biblical topic. Hope to see you there!
Faith & Reasoning 101 Mission Statement: To equip believers in the Christian faith to be prepared to have answers for those who ask them for the reason for the hope that they have, and to assist those seeking spiritual truth by providing a comfortable place to learn.
Upcoming activities are scheduled in November and beyond. So mark your calendars.
MISSIONS CONFERENCE WEEK – 11/6-10 – watch the RBC website for info!
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Men’s Ministry is looking for a few good men to help with our event logistics. No special skills needed—just a servant heart. Events are The Summit, Men’s Retreat, Boosters, and special men’s events. We plan to have teams that can alternate events. If interested, please contact Brad Hummel at mensministry@restonbible.org.
As always the Men’s Ministry is here to be an encouragement in your walk with the Lord. Contact us at mensministry@restonbible.org if you have any questions or concerns.
God Bless,
The Men’s Ministry Leadership Team
Sunday Rewind | 9.22.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (Psalm 27:1) – Let The Future Begin by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Our God Is Love (1 John 4:9-10) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Hosanna (Mark 11:9-10) – Saviour King by Hillsong
In Christ Alone (Philippians 3:7-8a) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
TEACHING: The Missing Peace, Part 1
Peace is something we all want, but something that often seems impossible to get, much less keep. We tend to settle for circumstantial peace instead of true shalom – God’s design for how things were meant to be. This series will look at how we get peace, make peace and bring peace as we follow Jesus.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT PEACE?
We would love to have an interactive/collaborative component to our Missing Peace series. If you have any questions regarding the topic of peace or peacemaking, please email us at themissingpeace@restonbible.org. We will address some of your questions in the final part of the teaching series. The deadline for question submission is noon on Wednesday, October 2.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this message you hope to discuss as a group?
- What do you think of when you think of “peace”?
- How does our culture tend to define peace? Is that different from “shalom”?
- Read and discuss John 20:19-29. What does this indicate about the nature of man? What do you observe about the person of Christ?
- What do you imagine this situation was like for Jesus’ disciples? What do you observe about the disciples’ reaction to Jesus’ return? Why do you suppose Jesus repeated the phrase “Peace be with you”?
- What is an area of your life where you have experienced true, deep peace?
- How does the gospel address the root problem of broken shalom?
- Is there an area of your life where you are struggling to experience peace? What would “shalom” look like in that area? Spend some time in prayer with your small group about this.
Sunday Rewind | 9.15.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Let Your Kingdom Come (Psalm 59:16-17) – Valley of Vision by Sovereign Grace Music
Your Love Never Fails (Romans 8:28) – Your Love Never Fails by Jesus Culture
The Lord Our God (James 1:17) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
TEACHING: Getting to Know Scripture, Part 3
While we gain knowledge through study and insight through meditation, application is the practical implementation of Biblical precepts into our everyday lives. “Little” violations of the Word of God today will have major implications and consequences later in life. Where do we need to recalculate?
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
The booklet Pastor Mike references & reads from in this sermon is a short booklet he wrote called Moral Discernment. It is available for free on iTunes – click here to download it.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- In last week’s questions, groups were encouraged to pick a portion of Scripture to meditate on. Take some time to share any below-the-surface insights with each other.
- If you were to give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- Are you where you thought you’d be in life? Can you identify any key decisions you made that brought you to where you are today?
- Read and discuss James 1:19-25. What do these verses tell us about the nature of man? What do you observe about the nature of God? What encouragements or warnings do you see here in terms of obeying/applying the Word of God?
- What does it mean to take inventory of your life? Why is that important?
- Consider the most important relationships in your life. When was the last time you took inventory? What do you need to do to check the inventory of those relationships?
- Consider your entertainment habits. When did you last take inventory in this area? What changes might you need to implement?
- Are there any “mundane” areas of your life where you have heard but not applied the Word of God? How do “little” violations of God’s Law add up over time?
- Are there any other areas of your life that need “recalculating” – practical application of the biblical principles you are already aware of? Spend some time in prayer for this with your small group.
Sunday Rewind | 9.8.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
The Lord Our God (James 1:17) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Come Thou Fount (Psalm 16:11) – Original Arrangement
I Stand Amazed (2 Corinthians 8:9) – North Point Live by Candi Pearson (North Point)
God Is Able (Ephesians 3:20-21) – Forever Reign by Hillsong Chapel
Agnus Dei (Revelation 5:20-21) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Getting to Know Scripture, Part 2
Meditating on Scriptures helps us move the precepts of the Bible from head to heart. Meditation is seeking the richness of God’s Word by being still as we reflect on the greater possibilities of meaning and application without violating the intended meaning of the text.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What was one thing from this sermon you found particularly insightful, helpful or difficult to grasp?
- What tends to come to mind when you think of “meditation”? How is that similar or different to meditation from a biblical perspective?
- Read and discuss Psalm 1. What does this chapter tell or infer about the nature of man? What do you observe about who God is? What does Psalm 1 tell us about mediation and the Word of God?
- What are some benefits of meditating on Scripture? How have you personally experienced some of those benefits?
What is the difference between studying Scripture and meditating on Scripture? Are both necessary? Why or why not? - Pastor Mike defines mediation as “seeking the richness of God’s Word by being still as you reflect on the greater possibilities of meaning and application without violating the intended meaning of the text.” What does it mean to violate the intended meaning of a text? How can we avoid that?
- Look over the account of David & Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. As Pastor Mike shared from his own meditations, what insights were fresh for you from this well-known account? How is this account pointing us to Jesus?
- What practical steps can you take to incorporate meditation as a regular discipline in your walk?
- Pick a portion of Scripture to meditate on as a group. Spend the next week meditating on those verses. Take some time to share any below-the-surface insights with each other the next time your group meets.
The Green Room Sessions: The Lord Our God
This Sunday, we’ll introduce the song The Lord Our God. In the latest edition of the Green Room Sessions, Erik Palmer and Paul Goodnight discuss healthy food options for the band, cultivating a culture of worship, songwriting, and the personal impact this song had with Erik’s family.
The Green Room Sessions are a sneak peak into the heart of the worship ministry at Reston Bible Church. We have a huge desire to communicate God’s Word through song and respond to the Spirit, freely worshiping when we’re together. Our hope is that these short videos will provide an extension of the community at RBC and supply your home, car, and office with great songs about the greatness and love of our incredibly able God.
See more Green Room Sessions here: http://rstbl.ch/PrUkYS
Sunday Rewind | 8.18.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Glorious by Paul Baloche
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (Psalm 27:1) – Let the Future Begin by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 6
As we continue our series in the book of Ruth, Pastor Mike delves into the concept of the kinsman-redeemer. When the redemptive power of the gospel is lived out in our lives, it will draw others to us.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you were give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- Read and discuss Ruth 4:1-12. What is the significance of this exchange between Boaz, the town elders, and the other kinsman-redeemer? What are the implications for Ruth?
- What is the significance of a kinsman-redeemer? How is Jesus a kinsman-redeemer?
- Pastor Mike shared this quote: “When we act, think, talk, and love like Jesus, we’ll have more walk-in business than we can handle.” What does that mean? What are the implications for us?
- Can you think of someone to whom you have felt drawn because of Jesus in their life?
- Do you feel you are living in such a way that people are drawn to you? Why or why not?
- How is the gospel attractive? In what ways is it repulsive?
- The great commission (Matthew 28:19) can be translated as “as you are going, make disciples.” What does this mean? How can you put this to practice as you go about your life? Spend some time in prayer with your group for this.
VIDEO: God of Angel Armies
As we closed out our series on spiritual warfare back in February (The Forgotten War), our worship team gave a special performance of Chris Tomlin’s Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies). Thanks to your many kind requests, on Sunday we’ll reprise this powerful song. The video above is a taste of what you’ll see live during worship services this weekend. We hope you’ll enjoy and engage with us in worshiping the God who goes before us, stands behind us and is always by our side.
Sunday Rewind | 8.11.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Our God Is Love (1 John 4:9-10) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Everything Glorious by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
You Never Let Go (Psalm 23:4) – Beautiful News by Matt Redman
Beautiful Scandalous Night (Romans 5:7-8) – Give Yourself Away by Robbie Seay Band
Nothing But The Blood (1 John 1:7) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 5
The third chapter in the book of Ruth brings up the question: can the will of God be managed or manipulated? From a human perspective, it is terribly risky to follow the will of God and to live a life of godly character for His glory.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this sermon you hope to talk about as a group?
- Do you tend to be a person who runs from risk or seeks out risk?
- Read and discuss Ruth 3. What insight does this give about the character of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz? Where do you see themes of wisdom, obedience & generosity? What other themes do you see in this chapter?
- How do we know what the will of God is? Why is it “risky” to follow the will of God?
- In what ways is it risky to live a life of godly character?
- What does it mean to “manage” the will of God? How is that different from “manipulating” the will of God?
- How does the gospel deal with our propensity to manipulate the will of God?
- Is there an area of your life where God is currently asking you to take a risk? How are you tempted to “manipulate” the will of God in this situation? What would it look like to “manage” this for the glory of God? Spend some time in prayer with your group for this.
Men’s Ministry News – August 2013
Men of RBC: The Men’s Ministry would like to invite you to some upcoming activities that have been designed to positively and encouragingly impact your walk with the Lord and in turn your spheres of influence.
- Speaker: Dr. Richard Blackaby
- Where: Meadowkirk Retreat Center, Middleburg, VA
- When: Sept 20-22
- Topic: Living on God’s Agenda
What man following Christ does not desire to hear from God and live it out? This year’s unprecedented combination of speaker, topic and location have resulted in record-shattering early registrations. Total space is limited to 150 and there are just 57 overnight accommodations remaining. Enjoy the fellowship of like-minded men, don’t get left out – click for more information or register here now!
WEEKLY DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES
Men’s Ministry weekly discipleship classes are a great way to get connected and increase your knowledge of the word and provide you with some mid-week encouragement. No previous experience or Bible knowledge is required; all you need is a willingness to grow and be challenged. For a course listing and full details, please visit www.restonbible.org/men.
- FUEL—Men of Action: The Role of Authentic Men in the Next Generation Church. Join us on this journey to Authentic Manhood. Tuesdays 6:25-7:30 AM – Sr. High Bldg.
- Training Faithful Men-Great Doctrines of the Faith. No registration required. For questions, call or email Ray Shoaff (703-625-5595) or ray@shoaff.com). Wednesday 6:00-7:00 AM – Sr. High Bldg.
The following upcoming activities are scheduled in September and beyond, so mark your calendars.
THE SUMMIT
When: October21, 2013, Monday 7:30-8:30 PM
Speaker: Congressman Daniel Webster of Florida
Topic: “How to Live with Integrity while Under Attack”
Where: RBC Sanctuary
Dinner: 6:30PM, RBC Clubhouse by Famous Dave’s BBQ
Registration: www.restonbible.org/summit
Most people know of Jesus, but many do not have a personal relationship with Him, and it is hard for them to even get their head around what that means. Generally, men are expected to be self-reliant and independent, and don’t seek out or admit a need for help when faced with challenges.
These are just a few reasons why it can be so powerful for men to hear the personal testimony of another man, especially a successful leader who is willing to be transparent and share how his relationship with Jesus Christ has impacted his life.
Webster served as the Speaker of the Florida House and Majority Leader in the Senate prior to being elected to the U.S. Congress in 2010. He is known for many things, but Daniel Webster still holds his faith, his family, and his principles as his biggest assets. Webster is married to the former Sandra Jordan of Orlando, and they have six children: David, Brent, Jordan, Elizabeth, John, and Victoria, and seven grandchildren. Webster is active in his church, First Baptist Church of Central Florida.
Come out and join us on Monday, October 21st, to hear about the difference a personal relationship with Jesus has made in the life of a prominent leader in our country and please bring a friend or co-worker.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Men’s Ministry is looking for a few good men to help with our event logistics and to take photos of our events. No special skills needed—just a servant heart. Events are The Summit, Men’s Retreat, Boosters, and special men’s events. We plan to have teams that can alternate events. If interested, please contact Brad Hummel at mensministry@restonbible.org.
As always the Men’s Ministry is here to be an encouragement in your walk with the Lord. Contact us at mensministry@restonbible.org if you have any questions or concerns.
God Bless,
The Men’s Ministry Leadership Team