Advent - Peace

Theme: Christ’s arrival brings peace with God and within ourselves.

Key Scripture: Isaiah 11:1-10; Luke 2:8-14

Main Idea: Jesus is the Prince of Peace who reconciles us to God and invites us i

Peace in the Midst of Waiting

Bible Passage: Isaiah 9:6-7, Philippians 4:6-7, John 14:27

Summary: The theme of peace during Advent reflects the anticipation of Christ's coming and the gift of peace He brings to our lives, both during the waiting period and beyond.

Application: This sermon can help Christians who are feeling anxious or restless during the Advent season. It emphasizes trusting in God's promises and finding peace in His presence, reminding believers that even in uncertain times, they can experience tranquility through faith.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that true peace is a gift from God that surpasses all understanding, and it can be fully realized as we wait for Christ's return. It encourages reliance on prayer and thanksgiving as pathways to receiving God's peace.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout the Bible, Jesus is revealed as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) who fulfills the longing for peace with God and within ourselves. His life, death, and resurrection inaugurate a new era of peace between God and humanity, which Advent highlights through anticipation of His birth.

Big Idea: As we prepare our hearts during Advent, we are reminded that peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of Christ, who calms our anxieties and assures us of His unwavering love and sovereignty.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the different biblical Greek terms for peace in your Logos library, particularly focusing on 'eirēnē' to better understand its implications in the New Testament. Investigate the cultural context of peace in ancient Israel and how it relates to the prophetic messages in Isaiah 9. Delve into commentaries on Philippians 4 to uncover deeper insights on prayer and peace within the life of the early church.

1. Promise of a Peaceful King

Isaiah 9:6-7

Perhaps start by focusing on the hope expressed in Isaiah's prophecy. Emphasize that Jesus, the 'Prince of Peace,' fulfills our deepest longing for peace. His reign is characterized by justice and righteousness, ensuring that the peace He offers is eternal. As we wait during Advent, we can find solace in knowing that this promised peace is not illusory but assured through Christ's birth and reign. Remind your audience to look towards the supernatural peace that Jesus provides in the chaos of life.

2. Prayer-Powered Peace

Philippians 4:6-7

You could explore how Paul instructs believers to bring their anxieties before God through prayer and thanksgiving. Highlight the promise that God's peace, which transcends understanding, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Encourage your listeners to engage in prayer as an act of trust in God's provision and sovereignty. Remind them that this divine peace secures their inner tranquility, regardless of external circumstances, embodying the peace advent brings.

3. Peaceful Presence of Christ

John 14:27

Maybe end by reflecting on Jesus' words about leaving His peace with His followers. Unlike the world’s temporary and often superficial peace, Jesus offers a peace rooted in His eternal presence and assurance. During Advent, as we anticipate His coming, believers are called to rest in this promise. The peace He gives us dismisses fear and calms troubled hearts, inviting us to experience lasting serenity in His presence.

Outline:

The Promise of Peace: A future ruled by perfect justice and righteousness (Isaiah 11:6-9).

The Announcement of Peace: The angels declare peace to all people (Luke 2:13-14).

The Gift of Peace: Experiencing personal and relational peace through Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

Application: Challenge the congregation to live as peacemakers, pointing others to the peace found in Christ.

Personal Notes:

Main premise:

We can experience peace now

our hearts are unsettled

stats on restless generation

Peace Later but also peace now

Romans 5:1 CSB

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The prophet Isaiah looked forward to the arrival of a future king who would make a covenant of shalom (peace, well-being) with his people. This king would set the world right and heal all that has been harmed. Read Isaiah 9:6-7 aloud together. What specific words or phrases stand out to you as you observe this passage and why? 

The prophet Isaiah looked forward to the arrival of the Prince of Peace, whose reign would lead to eternal shalom. Jesus' arrival fulfilled Isaiah's words. Read and reflect on Luke 2:9-15 as a group. Why do you think God announced the king's arrival to no-name shepherds? What does this tell you about the nature of God and his Kingdom?

The biblical story shows how humanity often chooses a way of life apart from God and suffers as a result. According to Colossians 1:19-23, what did God want to do to remedy this pain, and how did he accomplish his desire through Jesus? 

Jesus offers his peace to all people as a gift. How did Jesus make peace between two sharply divided people groups (Jews and Gentiles), and why did he do it (see Eph. 2:11-16)? 

Now, let's carefully read Ephesians 4:1-3. How can humility, gentleness, patience, and love help maintain the unity Jesus calls his followers to? What happens to unity when one of these virtues is missing?

Would you and your group like to learn more about God's shalom? Download the BibleProject app and explore the Advent study, where we explore how hope, peace, love, and joy arrive in the world through Jesus.