A Great Message for These Troubling Times – Hope, Faith, and Strength - Pastor Jimmy Evans

Summary

In this powerful sermon, the speaker explores the profound importance of peace in the life of a believer, emphasizing that true peace is a gift from God, distinct from the fleeting peace of the world. Drawing from biblical teachings, the speaker highlights how God's peace guides, protects, and empowers believers, acting as a spiritual compass for decision-making and as armor against anxiety and fear. Personal anecdotes illustrate the transformative impact of peace on both the mind and heart, showing that walking in God's peace not only leads to personal well-being but also serves as an attractive witness to non-believers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Peace is a powerful and profound gift that Jesus offers to believers, especially in turbulent times.
• 😀 Peace is not just an absence of conflict, but a deep, abiding internal tranquility that comes from walking with Jesus.
• 😀 The world’s peace is fragile and circumstantial, but the peace Jesus gives is stable, internal, and unshakable.
• 😀 Distress and anxiety are symptoms of living without God’s peace, but believers have the promise of peace that surpasses understanding.
• 😀 Jesus' peace is available to every believer, and it is a birthright that provides protection against fear and anxiety.
• 😀 Anxiety is not a condition, but a choice; believers are encouraged to choose peace through prayer and trust in God.
• 😀 Peace serves as a guide in making decisions, just as the peace of God guided the High Priest in the Old Testament.
• 😀 The peace of God can help believers avoid fear-driven decisions, offering clarity and tranquility even in difficult situations.
• 😀 Living in God’s peace has tangible, physical benefits, including protection against stress and its harmful effects on the body.
• 😀 Peace is not only a personal blessing but also an attractive witness to others, showing unbelievers the peace they are searching for.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the sermon shared in the script?

The main theme of the sermon is the power of peace, particularly the peace that Jesus offers to believers. The preacher highlights the importance of peace in turbulent times and contrasts it with worldly peace.

Why did the preacher's sermon on peace go wrong during the first attempt?

The sermon did not go well because, while the preacher was discussing peace, a series of chaotic events occurred, including tornadoes touching down and softball-sized hail, which distracted the congregation and caused people to leave.

How does the preacher describe the importance of peace in today's world?

The preacher emphasizes that peace is the most precious commodity in today's world, especially with the increasing distress and turmoil, such as terrorism and global unrest. Peace is presented as the antidote to anxiety and fear.

What is Jesus' role in relation to peace according to the preacher?

Jesus is described as the 'Prince of Peace,' and the preacher emphasizes that Jesus offers an eternal, internal peace that surpasses the temporary and fragile peace offered by the world.

What are some of the Bible verses referenced to support the theme of peace?

Some key Bible verses referenced include Romans 14:17, Romans 15:13, Galatians 5:22, Isaiah 9:6, John 14:27, and Philippians 4:6-7. These verses highlight peace as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, a promise from Jesus, and a vital part of the believer's life.

What distinction does the preacher make between worldly peace and the peace of Jesus?

The preacher distinguishes worldly peace as fragile, elusive, and circumstantial, which is hard to obtain and easy to lose. In contrast, the peace of Jesus is described as enduring, internal, and unshaken by external circumstances.

How does the preacher explain the connection between peace and decision-making?

The preacher explains that peace plays a crucial role in guiding believers' decisions. By allowing the peace of God to rule in their hearts, believers can discern God's will, especially in situations where the Bible doesn't provide clear instructions.

What is the significance of the Urim and Thummim in the context of peace?

The Urim and Thummim, used by the high priest in the Old Testament, are described as tools for seeking God's guidance. The preacher draws a parallel between this ancient practice and how the peace of God guides believers today—peace being a tangible and reliable indicator of God's will.

How does the preacher suggest believers should handle anxiety and stress?

The preacher suggests that believers should choose not to be anxious but instead bring everything to God in prayer, with thanksgiving. By doing so, the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will protect their hearts and minds from fear and anxiety.

What role does peace play in the life of a believer according to the preacher?

Peace is portrayed as vital in the believer's life for several reasons: it guides decision-making, protects the heart and mind from anxiety, and serves as a platform for witnessing to others. Peace is both a divine promise and a practical tool for navigating life's challenges.