Series: Fruit of the Spirit
Date: 10/04/2020
Text: Philippians 4:4-9
Central Thought: Peace with God and the peace of God are gifts from God.
Read the text, then discuss some/all of the following questions.
Icebreaker: When you envision a peaceful place in your mind, how would you describe it?
Peace with God
From the sermon: “Before we know Jesus personally, we are considered enemies of God.” Do you remember what your life was like before becoming a Christian? Were you ever aware you were at enmity with God or was it invisible to you?
See Romans 5:8-10.
- Do you acknowledge that God saved you when you were still a sinner in his view?
- How does that make you feel toward him knowing that is true?
- Are you aware of people around you who think they are “on God’s side” when they really do not know him personally? How can you help them see their need for a savior?
The peace of God
See:
Philippians 4:6-7
- How would you try to describe this peace if someone asked you to?
- Have you ever felt a peace in the middle of a turbulent time that did not make sense to others or a peace that surprised even you?
John 16:33 Jesus said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
- How does it make you feel to know that Jesus promises to overcome whatever the world brings your way?
- How does his promise affect your view of your circumstances?
- How does his promise affect your outlook on life?
John 14:25-27:
- Do you see the world’s view of “peace” just the same as ours as believers or do you see a difference?
- Are there people in your life who do not appear to know the Lord and you wish they could experience His kind of peace?
Peaceful thoughts and practices
Philippians 4:8-9
- What is Paul encouraging us to think about?
- What does he say is the result?
CLOSE IN PRAYER
Let us pray for one another to experience the peace of God regardless of our circumstances.
Pray for our church family to share with others about how they can have peace with God (through Jesus Christ).
Pray for neighbors, family, and friends to recognize the hopelessness of seeking earthly peace apart from Jesus. May they turn to Jesus as their Prince of Peace!
