Isaiah 26:3
Perfect peace is a possible and achievable condition for individuals, obtained through peace with God and the peace of God.
Chuck Smith emphasizes the concept of 'perfect peace' as an inner tranquility that is free from turmoil, anxiety, and competition. He explains that this peace is achieved through a relationship with God, specifically through Jesus Christ, who reconciles us to God and grants us His peace. Smith highlights the importance of keeping our minds focused on God, as this is essential for experiencing perfect peace. He invites listeners to trust in the Lord, who is the ultimate source of stability and peace in their lives.
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"PERFECT PEACE"
Were I an artist and desired to paint a picture with a message of perfect peace,
picture of Christ sleeping in boat. We speak of peace on international level, of
this I have little to say, I do not preach for it or even advocate it, it cannot be
until the Prince of Peace comes. Of far greater importance is peace on the individual
level, this is possible even perfect.
I. WHAT IS MEANT BY PERFECT PEACE?
A. It means that there is no inner turmoil.
1. No frantic frenzy of activity "He that believeth shall not make haste."
2. No anxiety or worry.
3. No striving against others.
a. Competition or seeking to control.
B. A perfect inner rest.
1. An inner quietness.
II. HOW IS SUCH A CONDITION OBTAINED?
A. Peace has two stages.
1. Peace with God.
a. A man can never have peace when He is fighting with God.
1. "No rest saith the Lord for the wicked."
2. "The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff that
wind driveth."
3. "Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame."
b. To have peace with God, Jesus Christ is a necessity.
1. "Having made peace with God through the blood of
His cross."
2. No other way has been provided for peace with God.
3. Peace is never a by-product of other religious systems.
2. The peace of God.
a. "The peace of God shall keep your hearts and minds through
Jesus Christ."
b. "Peace leave with you, my peace give..."
B. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee."
1. How? Keep your mind stayed on God.
a. If your mind on yourself you desire to be recognized or you
desire to have.
"From whence come the fightings & wars."
b. If your mind is on others what they are doing or wearing; robbed
of peace.
2. It is not a mental state that we achieve it is God's work "Thou wilt."
a. The perfect peace is God's part.
b. Keeping my mind stayed on Him is my part.
If I do my part, I can be sure God will do His.
3. "Because he trusteth in thee."
a. Is God still on the throne?
b. He who created, can He not sustain?
III. THE INVITATION TO PEACE "TRUST IN THE LORD."
A. Put your trust in Him, He is worthy of your trust.
1. If you don't trust Him what are you going to trust?
a. Luck?
b. Your ability?
c. The U.N.?
B. "For the Lord Jehovah is the Rock of Ages."
1. Paint another picture.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - What is meant by perfect peace? - A perfect inner rest
- II points: - How is such a condition obtained? - Peace has two stages
- III points: - The invitation to peace - Trust in the Lord
Key Quotes
“He that believeth shall not make haste.” — Chuck Smith
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee.” — Chuck Smith
“For the Lord Jehovah is the Rock of Ages.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- To achieve perfect peace, you must have peace with God through Jesus Christ.
- Keeping your mind stayed on God is crucial for obtaining the peace of God.
- Trust in the Lord is the key to perfect peace.