Christ's Glorious Promise of Peace
Jesus offers a supernatural peace that is available to all who have been justified by faith and reach out to the Savior.
David Wilkerson emphasizes Christ's promise of peace, reminding believers that despite the turmoil and fear that may plague their hearts, Jesus offers a peace that surpasses worldly understanding. He highlights that Jesus came to deliver us from fear, allowing us to serve Him in holiness and righteousness, regardless of life's challenges. The sermon reassures that peace is available even in suffering and uncertainty, as Jesus, the Prince of Peace, provides comfort and strength through the Holy Spirit. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace this supernatural peace, which is a core aspect of the gospel and a gift for all who trust in Christ.
Text
Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27).
Many Christians have troubled hearts and some live in fear, secretly plagued with panic, turmoil and sleepless nights. For many, peace comes and goes, leaving them worried, restless and battered by stress. Yet, Zacharias prophesied that the Messiah would come "to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life" (Luke 1:74-75).
Beloved, Jesus came to this earth and died for sinful man so that we could walk with God without fear and enjoy his peace all the days of our lives! This includes times of suffering, turmoil, testing, and uncertainty. It means both good days and bad days. No matter what comes our way, we are to enjoy peace.
Jesus is the Prince of Peace! At his birth the angels sang, "Peace on earth" (see Luke 2:14) and he promised of himself, "In Me you may have peace" (John 16:33). Peace is what the gospel is all about: "The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ" (Acts 10:36).
In this world we will face tribulation, persecution and fiery trials. We will be tempted and we will suffer for the sake of Christ. Still we are to serve him in righteousness, full of peace and joy in the Holy Spirit at all times. Paul's prayer for all believers was this: "May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all" (2 Thessalonians 3:16).
Think of it -- peace in every circumstance! Truly that is supernatural but it is available to all who have been justified by faith and reach out to the Savior.
Sermon Outline
- I. The Promise of Peace in Jesus
- A. Jesus' promise of peace in John 14:27
- B. The source of peace in Jesus
- II. The Reality of Troubled Hearts
- A. Many Christians struggle with fear and anxiety
- B. The consequences of a troubled heart
- III. The Gift of Peace in Christ
- A. Jesus' death and resurrection bring peace
- B. Peace is available in all circumstances
- IV. The Character of the Prince of Peace
- A. Jesus is the Prince of Peace
- B. The angels' declaration of peace at Jesus' birth
Key Quotes
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” — David Wilkerson
“In Me you may have peace” — David Wilkerson
“May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- We can have peace in every circumstance by reaching out to the Savior and trusting in His promise.
- Jesus' peace is not like the world's peace, but a supernatural peace that comes from Him.
- We must walk in the peace that Jesus offers and not let our hearts be troubled or afraid.