A PAZ - Pastor Billy Graham

Summary

In this sermon, Billy Graham discusses the theme of peace, highlighting three types: peace with God, peace of God, and peace with others. He emphasizes that peace with God comes through reconciliation with Jesus Christ, offering forgiveness and transformation. Graham also explores the temporary peace the world offers versus the lasting peace that comes from God. He further calls for individuals to commit to Christ, stressing that true peace and eternal security are found in Him. The message invites listeners to experience this peace, live with purpose, and embrace salvation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jesus came to bring both peace and division. While he is the Prince of Peace, he also brought a sword to challenge and change the world.
• 😀 There is a difference between worldly peace and the peace that Jesus offers. The world's peace is temporary, but God's peace is eternal and transcends all understanding.
• 😀 The greatest need for every individual is peace with God, which is only achievable through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross.
• 😀 Reconciliation with God is necessary because all people are, whether they realize it or not, in rebellion against God. The cross bridges this gap.
• 😀 Billy Graham emphasizes the need for personal transformation and salvation, highlighting that the gospel is not just a religious practice, but a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
• 😀 Even in the midst of life's turmoil, true peace comes from a relationship with God, not from temporary distractions like substances or experiences.
• 😀 God's justice requires that sin be paid for, and Jesus willingly took on the punishment for humanity’s sins on the cross.
• 😀 Peace with others is also important; Jesus taught that we should work to live in peace with our neighbors and fellow human beings.
• 😀 The promise of ultimate peace will be fulfilled in the future, when God’s kingdom is established, and wars, death, and suffering will be no more.
• 😀 Billy Graham urges individuals to publicly commit to Christ, emphasizing that following Jesus requires open declaration and repentance, not just private belief.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the speech?

The central theme of the speech is the concept of 'peace' from a biblical perspective, focusing on peace with God, the peace of God, and peace with others.

How does the speaker reconcile the apparent contradiction between Jesus being called the 'Prince of Peace' and His statement that He did not come to bring peace but a sword?

The speaker suggests that Jesus' message was not about being a passive peacemaker, but rather about challenging the status quo. Jesus came to bring change, symbolized by fire and the sword, which would lead to division for the sake of a greater spiritual peace.

What does the speaker mean by 'peace with God'?

Peace with God refers to reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ, as a result of justification by faith. This peace is necessary because, according to the speaker, people are in rebellion against God due to their sinful nature.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of peace with God?

The speaker emphasizes peace with God because it is the foundation for all other types of peace. Without reconciliation with God, individuals cannot experience true peace in their lives.

What does the speaker say about the need for personal reconciliation with God?

The speaker argues that everyone needs personal reconciliation with God, as even those who are unaware of their rebellion against God are still in a state of spiritual conflict, which can only be resolved through accepting Jesus Christ.

How does the speaker describe the peace that Jesus offers?

The peace that Jesus offers is described as a deep, lasting tranquility, different from the temporary peace the world provides. This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is an inner peace rooted in a relationship with God.

What is the contrast between the peace the world gives and the peace Jesus offers?

The world offers temporary peace through substances, pleasures, or distractions, but these do not provide lasting fulfillment. In contrast, the peace of Jesus is enduring and grounded in faith, offering true serenity regardless of external circumstances.

What does the speaker mean by 'peace with others'?

Peace with others involves working actively to promote peace and reconciliation in relationships. It reflects the commandment of Jesus to live in harmony with others, despite the challenges of living in a broken world.

What biblical prophecy does the speaker refer to regarding the future of peace?

The speaker refers to Isaiah 2:4, which prophesies a future time when nations will no longer engage in war, transforming weapons into tools for peaceful agricultural work, symbolizing the ultimate establishment of peace on Earth.

How does the speaker conclude the speech regarding personal faith in Jesus Christ?

The speaker calls for individuals to make a public commitment to Jesus Christ, emphasizing that true peace, forgiveness, and eternal life are found only in Him. The call to action is to receive Jesus as Lord and Savior and experience the peace that comes with it.