Shoes of Gospel Peace
Audio Recording
Sermon Outline
Speaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together
Ephesians 6:13-18, John 14:25-27 (ESV)
13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.
25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Sermon Outline
Christ calls us to a path of peace through a world where many slip, stumble and fall.
1. Jesus’ way is different from the world
John 14:27 “not as the world gives do I give to you”
2. We are disciples learning as we go
v26 “The Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and bring to remembrance…”
v25 “I have spoken while I am still with you”
3. We have a helper who is with us
v26 “… the Father will send in my name”
v27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
v27 “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Prayer of Confession
Our generous God, you do not give as the world gives. You do not treat us as our sins deserve. We have been people of enmity, hostility and alienation. We have been takers, not givers. We have promoted division. Our hearts have not been at peace; we have suffered the pains of selfish thoughts and desires. We have acted as though we know what is best, only to demonstrate our foolishness. We have not had proper regard for you or others. Forgive our many sins. We thank you for mercy and grace. Amen.
Questions for Reflection
What is the gospel of peace? Why is peace so central in the Christian message?
How does Jesus give differently than how the world gives?
What are some indicators we don’t have peace?
How does God teach and lead His people today? What should Christians do to mature in light of what Jesus says in John 14:25-27?
If Jesus gives us peace, why do we still experience difficulties?
How does temptation always serve to separate us from God? How can understanding temptation ready us to hold to Christ’s ways of peace where they seem insufficient?
What assurance comes with the message that peace is given to us by Jesus? How can you get more grounded so you experience more that peace?