CHRISTMAS - EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
“I Didn’t Expect Peace In The Process!”

Will DeVaughn | 12.06.2015

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” - John 14:27 (NIV)

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,(B) will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

THREE IMPORTANT PLACES WE HAVE GOD’S PEACE FROM THE INSIDE OUT

a) IN CHRIST

“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.” - John 16:33 (NIV)

b) FROM WITHIN OURSELVES

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 15:13 (NIV)

c) IN COMMUNITY

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” - Colossians 3:15 (NIV)

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” - Luke 2:14 (NIV)

Four things that ensure peace to those on whom God’s favor rests: (grace/access)

1) His Love

“Though the mountains be shaken
     and the hills be removed,
     yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken
     nor my covenant of peace be removed,”
     says the LORD, who has compassion on you. - Isaiah 54:10 (NIV)

2) Justification by Faith

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” - Romans 5:1 (NIV)

3) Reconciliation

“But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.” — Colossians 1:22 (NIV)

4) Prayer and Thanksgiving

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” - Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

GOING DEEPER

SCRIPTURE READING:  Philippians 4:6-7, Isaiah 54:10, Romans 15:13

GETTING STARTED 
* From the message, what insight or principle did you find helpful, interesting, or challenging?
* How did Joseph and Mary experience unexpected peace in the process of giving birth to Jesus? Can you relate?
* In what unusual way have you experience unexpected peace? What impact did it have on you? 

A CLOSER LOOK
* Read John 14: 27.
* What is the difference between peace in the world and peace in Christ?

DIGGING DEEPER
* Read Philippians 4:6 and Colossians 3:15.
* Why is prayer and thanksgiving important in knowing the peace of God?