On Line Bible Study - For the Week October 29-November 4, 2012

Lesson 560  -  War and Peace
John 14:25-31 

 Jesus promises the Father will send the Holy Spirit.  The two points we want to raise in this lesson have to do with the peace Jesus gives, and the battle Jesus is engaged in.

John 14:  ²⁷ 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.

The "peace" Jesus offers is not the cessation of conflict.  it is not a guarantee that there won't be pain or frustration in life.  Rather, it is an assurance that God is with us.  The Holy Spirit is ever present.  Our destiny is sealed because our destination is secured.

As we reflect on the circumstances the first and second century church found itself in, the affirmation of the reality of peace is no small gift.  Who isn't willing to endure the pain of an operation and the physical exertion of therapy if the outcome is assured?  The world cannot offer us what Jesus provides because the world seldom (if ever) concerns itself with matters of the spirit.

John 14:  ... the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, ³¹ but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me. 

Jesus acknowledges the struggle that awaits him just around the corner.  We see in the last phrase of Verse 30 evidence of the same kind of peace Jesus gives to his disciples.  All that will result from whatever the 'prince of this world' has to throw at him will be the undeniable evidence of Jesus' love for the Father.  And, with a nod to the previous lesson, we see here that Jesus' love is proven by virtue of his actions.  He will do what the Father commands.

What are the struggles you face just now?  Where are the places in your life you long to hear Jesus speak the word to you - Peace I leave with you ...