perfect peace

	Pastor Jeremias Antonetty





The Text Jn.16:30-33 John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (NKJ) #28-33 Here is a plain declaration of Christ's coming from the Father, and his return to him. The Redeemer, in his entrance, was God manifest in the flesh, and in his departure was received up into glory. By this saying the disciples improved in knowledge. Also in faith; "Now are we sure." Alas! they knew not their own weakness. While we have God's favourable presence, we are happy, and ought to be easy, though all the world forsake us. Peace in Christ is the only true peace, in him alone believers have it. Through him we have peace with God, and so in him we have peace in our own minds. We ought to be encouraged, because Christ has overcome the world before us. But while we think we stand, let us take heed lest we fall. We know not how we should act if brought into temptation; let us watch and pray without ceasing, that we may not be left to ourselves. These things I have spoken unto you, &c.] As this is the conclusion of our Lord's sermons to his disciples, these words may well enough be thought to have regard to all that he had said in general; as concerning his departure from them; his going to prepare a place for them; his union to them, and their communion with him; and the various persecutions and afflictions they should endure for his sake; and the many blessings both of grace and glory they should enjoy; In context with this particular verse of Scripture, we see that Jesus spoke many things to his disciples. And now we see him admonishing his disciples to remain firm in him and not to be moved by their circumstances. His assurance to them is I have told you these things so that in me you will have peace. The Greek meaning of peace 515 eirene {i-ray'-nay} AV - peace 89, one 1, rest 1, quietness 1; 92 1 ) a state of national tranquillity 2 ) exemption from the rage and havoc of war 3 ) peace between individuals, i.e. harmony, concord 4 ) security, safety, prosperity, felicity, (because peace and harmony make and keep things safe and prosperous) 5 ) of the Messiah's peace 6 ) the way that leads to peace (salvation) 7 ) of Christianity, the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot, of whatsoever sort that is 8 ) the blessed state of devout and upright men after death We enter the kingdom through many tribulations Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." (NKJ) Everywhere we go there will be persecution Acts 20:23-24 "except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. (NKJ) Our present suffering Rom 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (NKJ) Our light affliction 2 Cor 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, (NKJ) Being acquainted with God gives peace Job 22:21 `Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace; Thereby good will come to you. (NKJ) Nothing can disturb God's perfect peace Job 34:29 When He gives quietness, who then can make trouble? And when He hides His face, who then can see Him, whether it is against a nation or a man alone?-- (NKJ) Peace is found walking with God Ps 1:1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; (NKJ) We can sleep in the peace of God Ps 4:8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. (NKJ) The Lord blesses his people with peace Ps 29:11 The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace. (NKJ)
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