1. In this verse Jesus gave encouragement and instructions to the apostles. 2. This morning our lesson was based on the Lord's instruction: "let not your heart be afraid." 3. This evening we are concentrating on the Lord's encouragement to give peace to the apostles. 4. As we analyze John 14:27 we conclude: "peace is a gift from the Lord." 5. Thankfully, we have information revealed in Philippians 4:4-9 that shows us how to receive the peace that the Lord gives. Discussion: I. THESE VERSES MENTION 2 SPECIAL BLESSINGS THAT RELATE TO "PEACE"
A. The introduction to this letter (Philippians 1:1-2) shows that Paul wanted the Christians in Philippi to have "peace" from the Father and Christ. B. In ch.4 Paul assured the Christians in Philippi that: 1. "the peace of God" would keep their hearts and minds through Christ (vs.7) 2. "the God of peace" would be with them (vs.9b). C. We can have these blessings, but they are conditional (Colossians 3:15). II. THESE VERSES TEACH US HOW TO RECEIVE PEACE FROM THE LORD
A. (vs.4) We are instructed to "rejoice" -- "in the Lord" (3:1; Galatians 3:27) and "always" [at all times]. 1. To receive peace from the Lord, we must rejoice in Him always. 2. This is something we are responsible for doing -- no one else can do it for us. B. (vs.5) We are to let our "moderation be known unto all men." 1. "Moderation:" a forbearing, gentle, patient spirit 2. This verse teaches us to practice "moderation" [forbearance] before others. 3. To motivate us, we are reminded that "the Lord is at hand." 4. Since the Lord is near, we must: a. seek assistance from Him (Psalm 145:18-19) b. look to His example and imitate it. 5. To receive peace from the Lord we must demonstrate a forbearing, gentle, and patient spirit toward all men. C. (vs.6) We are to "be careful [anxious] for nothing." 1. The alternative to anxiety is found in vs.6b (also see 1 Peter 5:7). 2. To receive peace from the Lord we must avoid anxiety. D. (vs.8) We must think on the right things. 1. "Think:" to meditate, to let your mind dwell on, to carefully reflect upon 2. We learn from Proverbs 23:7 why we must think on the right things. 3. Meditating upon these things will determine the kind of people we are. 4. To receive peace from the Lord we must think on the right things. III. THESE VERSES MENTION PAUL'S TEACHING AND EXAMPLE
A. (vs.9a) Paul instructed the Christians in Philippi to do what he had taught them and to follow his example. B. The example that Paul set in Philippi is seen in Acts 16:22-25. C. Paul rejoiced in the Lord, he practiced forbearance, he avoided being anxious, and he obviously thought on the right things. Conclusion:
1. Paul practiced what he preached, and Jesus gave Him peace. a. "The peace of God" kept his heart and mind. b. "The God of peace" was with him. 2. To receive the peace that Jesus gives let us follow Paul's teaching and example.
