The Peace of God
Peace, or “shalom,” is not a thing. It is a person. The Father is called “Jehovah Shalom.” The Son is the “Prince of Shalom.” The Spirit produces the fruit that is shalom. How do we more completely experience the peace Christ offers?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What did you find most encouraging from this message? What did you find most challenging?
- In Ephesians 6:15, we are told to put on the gospel of peace “as shoes for your feet.” The word “peace” in this verse points to the fact that we are no longer at war with God if we are in Christ. Why do we need to have peace with God before we can experience the peace of God?
- Discuss the notion that “peace is not a thing; it is a person.” Read John 14:27 and Ephesians 2:14. How is Jesus our peace?
- An important part of establishing a disposition of peace is the idea of “taking captive every thought” (2 Corinthians 10:5), which requires fixing our eyes on Jesus. Read and discuss Hebrews 12:1-2 and 2 Corinthians 5:17. How can you discipline your mind to focus on Jesus?
- Pastor Bruce mentioned that only 8 percent of the things we worry about have a basis in reality as something that should concern us. Discuss how well you do at managing worry.
- Philippians 4:6-7 talks about prayer and gratitude. How do you focus on keeping a heart of gratefulness and prayer in times of difficulty?
- It is important in the process of trying to establish peace that we recognize that we are crucified with Christ and that He is to live through us. What helps you to focus on Christ living through you?
- What makes it difficult to maintain peace? What do you find to be helpful?