Finding True Home and Healing in Christ
Summary
This morning, we gathered as a family of faith to reflect on what it truly means to come home—not just to a physical place, but to the presence of Jesus, where our deepest needs are met. In a world that often leaves us feeling like wandering nomads, we are reminded that our true citizenship is not of this earth, but in heaven, anchored in Christ. Just as my daughter’s homecoming brought comfort and belonging, so too does our return to Jesus bring us into a place of forgiveness, peace, and new life.
We explored the story of the disciples in the upper room after Jesus’ resurrection. Locked behind closed doors, they were gripped by fear, confusion, shame, and guilt. Yet, Jesus entered into their midst, fully aware of their inner turmoil, and offered them exactly what they needed: peace and forgiveness. He breathed on them the Holy Spirit, not as a one-time empowerment for mission, but as a gentle, life-giving presence to heal their hearts and prepare them for what was to come.
The Holy Spirit is not just a theological concept, but the very breath of God that brings life, comfort, and unity. It is the Spirit who reminds us of Jesus’ words, intercedes for us in our weakness, and empowers us to live out forgiveness in our relationships. We saw how peace and forgiveness are inseparable—there can be no true peace where unforgiveness reigns. Jesus, knowing the disciples’ need, gave them both, setting the stage for the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost and the birth of the Church.
This is not just a story for the first disciples, but a daily reality for us. Each of us has doors we lock—fears, anxieties, resentments, or shame. Yet Jesus comes, not to condemn, but to breathe peace and forgiveness into our lives. He invites us to lay down our burdens, receive the Spirit, and walk in the freedom and unity that only He can give. As we prepare to be sent into the world, we are called first to rest in His love, receive His peace, and extend forgiveness to others, knowing that God is on the move and we are part of His unfolding plan.
Key Takeaways
- True Home is Found in Christ, Not in This World
Our deepest sense of belonging and identity is not rooted in earthly places or circumstances, but in our citizenship in heaven. When we feel like outsiders or wanderers, Jesus welcomes us home, grounding us in His love and presence. This spiritual homecoming is available to all who seek Him, offering a foundation that cannot be shaken by the brokenness of the world. [10:20]
- The Holy Spirit Meets Us in Our Need, Not Just for Mission but for Healing
Before empowering the disciples for bold witness, Jesus first breathed peace and forgiveness into their fearful, guilt-ridden hearts. The Spirit’s initial work is to heal, comfort, and restore us where we are, preparing us for what God will do through us. God knows exactly what we need in each moment, and the Spirit’s presence is tailored to our unique circumstances and struggles. [33:40]
- Peace and Forgiveness Are Inseparable Gifts of Christ
Jesus offers peace not as a fleeting feeling, but as a reality rooted in the forgiveness of our sins. Where unforgiveness, shame, or resentment persist, true peace cannot flourish. To live in the abundance of Christ, we must both receive His forgiveness and extend it to others, allowing the Spirit to break cycles of bitterness and bring reconciliation. [45:59]
- God’s Breath Brings New Life—Again and Again
Just as God breathed life into Adam, Jesus breathes the Spirit into us, making us new creations. This is not a one-time event, but a daily renewal; every morning, we need to be reminded that we are forgiven, loved, and empowered by the Spirit. The breath of God transforms locked rooms of fear into places of resurrection and hope. [48:47]
- Jesus Enters Our Locked Rooms Without Condemnation
No matter what doors we have closed—whether out of fear, shame, or confusion—Jesus comes to us with gentleness and understanding. He does not force His way in to judge or scold, but to offer exactly what we need: peace, forgiveness, and the Spirit’s presence. Our role is simply to receive, rest in His love, and prepare to be part of His ongoing work in the world. [50:00]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[02:30] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[05:23] - Ministry Updates and Community Partnerships
[09:12] - Reflections on Homecoming and True Belonging
[10:20] - Our Citizenship in Heaven
[11:09] - Worship and the Invitation to Authentic Praise
[20:39] - The Meaning of Coming Home to Jesus
[21:34] - Confession, Forgiveness, and New Creation
[26:17] - Encountering the Risen Lord: John 20
[33:40] - The Holy Spirit’s Role in Our Lives
[36:17] - Jesus Meets Us in Our Fear and Shame
[45:59] - The Connection Between Peace and Forgiveness
[48:47] - Daily Renewal Through the Spirit
[50:00] - Jesus Enters Our Locked Rooms
[01:05:24] - Communion: All Are Welcome at the Table
[01:08:10] - Closing and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Coming Home to Jesus—Peace, Forgiveness, and the Breath of God
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### Bible Reading
- John 20:19-23
(Jesus appears to the disciples in the locked room, offers peace, breathes on them, and gives the Holy Spirit.)
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### Observation Questions
1. When Jesus appears to the disciples in the locked room, what are the first words He says to them? Why do you think He starts with these words? (John 20:19, [26:17])
2. What physical actions does Jesus take to show the disciples who He is? (John 20:20, [26:17])
3. According to the passage, what does Jesus do after saying, “Peace be with you”? (John 20:22, [26:17])
4. In the sermon, what emotions or struggles were the disciples experiencing behind the locked doors? ([36:17])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why might Jesus have chosen to offer peace and forgiveness before sending the disciples out on their mission? What does this say about what we need before serving others? ([36:17])
2. The sermon says, “Peace and forgiveness are tied together.” Why is it impossible to have true peace where there is unforgiveness, shame, or resentment? ([45:59])
3. The Holy Spirit is described as the “breath of God” that brings new life. How does this image help us understand what the Spirit does in our lives, especially when we feel stuck or afraid? ([48:47])
4. Jesus enters the disciples’ locked room “not to scold or condemn, but to offer exactly what they need.” What does this reveal about Jesus’ character and how He approaches us in our own struggles? ([50:00])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon talked about “locked doors” in our lives—fears, anxieties, shame, or resentment. What is one “locked door” you are facing right now? What would it look like to invite Jesus into that space this week? ([36:17])
2. Jesus offers peace and forgiveness as inseparable gifts. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive, or do you need to receive forgiveness for yourself? What is one step you could take toward that this week? ([45:59])
3. The Holy Spirit is not just for “big moments” but for daily renewal. What is one practical way you can remind yourself each morning that you are forgiven, loved, and empowered by the Spirit? ([48:47])
4. The sermon said, “Our true home is found in Christ, not in this world.” When do you most feel like a “wanderer” or outsider? How can you anchor your sense of belonging in Jesus this week? ([10:20])
5. Jesus comes to us with gentleness and understanding, not condemnation. How does this truth change the way you approach your own failures or the failures of others? ([50:00])
6. The disciples were sent out after first receiving peace and forgiveness. Is there a place or relationship where you feel God is calling you to bring peace or forgiveness? What might that look like in action? ([26:17])
7. The sermon mentioned that “God is on the move and we are part of His unfolding plan.” What is one area of your life where you sense God inviting you to participate in His work? How can you say “yes” this week? ([50:00])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to spend a few moments in silent prayer, asking Jesus to breathe His peace and forgiveness into any “locked rooms” in their hearts, and to fill them afresh with the Holy Spirit for the week ahead.
Devotional
Day 1: Our True Citizenship Is in Heaven
It is easy to feel like a wanderer in this world, searching for a place to belong, but Scripture reminds us that our true home is not here on earth but in the presence of Jesus Christ. No matter how comfortable or familiar our earthly homes may be, they are temporary compared to the eternal home we have with God. When we gather as believers, we are reminded that our citizenship is in heaven, and we are welcomed into the family of God, grounded and anchored in His love and grace. Let this truth bring you comfort and hope, especially when you feel lost or out of place in this world. [10:20]
Philippians 3:20-21 (ESV)
"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself."
Reflection: When you feel out of place or unsettled in your daily life, how can you remind yourself today that your true home and identity are found in Christ and His kingdom?
Day 2: Jesus Brings Peace and Forgiveness
When Jesus appeared to His disciples after the resurrection, He found them locked away in fear, shame, and confusion. Yet, He did not come to scold or condemn them; instead, He spoke peace over them and breathed the Holy Spirit upon them, offering forgiveness and new life. In the same way, Jesus meets us in our moments of anxiety, regret, and uncertainty, bringing the peace that only He can give and washing us clean from our sins. His presence brings relief, but it is the Spirit that brings lasting peace and forgiveness, setting us free to live abundantly. [36:17]
John 20:19-23 (ESV)
"On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, 'Peace be with you.' When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.' And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.'"
Reflection: What burdens of fear, shame, or regret are you carrying today, and how can you invite Jesus to breathe His peace and forgiveness into those places?
Day 3: The Holy Spirit Empowers and Comforts
The Holy Spirit is not just a distant theological concept but the very presence of God dwelling within us, guiding, teaching, comforting, and empowering us for daily life. Jesus promised that the Spirit would come to be our Helper, Advocate, and source of power, enabling us to live out our faith boldly and to be united with other believers. The Spirit intercedes for us, fills us with spiritual gifts, and produces fruit in our lives, making us new creations and keeping us in true faith. Each day, we are invited to rely on the Spirit’s presence and power, trusting that God knows exactly what we need in every moment. [29:30]
Acts 1:4-5, 8 (ESV)
"And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, 'you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.' ... 'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.'"
Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need the Holy Spirit’s guidance or strength today, and how can you intentionally invite Him to fill and empower you?
Day 4: Peace and Forgiveness Are Inseparable
True peace in our lives and relationships is only possible when we walk in forgiveness—both receiving it from Christ and extending it to others. Jesus’ death and resurrection have reconciled us to God, making peace by the blood of His cross, and the Holy Spirit brings that peace into our hearts. Where unforgiveness, bitterness, or resentment reign, peace cannot flourish. As we live in the forgiveness Christ offers, we are empowered to forgive others, bringing unity and healing to our relationships and reflecting the peace of God to the world. [45:59]
Colossians 1:19-20 (ESV)
"For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross."
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive or seek forgiveness from today so that God’s peace can reign more fully in your heart and relationships?
Day 5: Jesus Meets Us Behind Locked Doors
No matter what fears, anxieties, or doubts have caused you to close yourself off, Jesus comes to you—not to condemn, but to offer peace, forgiveness, and new life. He knows exactly what you are facing and what you need, and He is able to breathe His Spirit into your situation, unlocking the doors of your heart. Each day, we need to receive afresh the peace and forgiveness He offers, allowing Him to wipe the slate clean and empower us to forgive others. As you open yourself to His presence, get ready—God is on the move, and you are part of His plan. [48:47]
Revelation 3:20 (ESV)
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me."
Reflection: What “locked door” in your life do you need to open to Jesus today, trusting Him to bring peace, forgiveness, and a fresh start?
Quotes
We're a people who walk in the hope and the truth and the life that comes through the forgiveness of sin. And even though Jesus took those sins and they are crucified on the cross, each week we confess them because I'm a human being, and each week the devil comes at me and tries to lay those sins back on me, and I need to hear over and over that I've been forgiven. How about you? [00:20:50] (25 seconds)
Amen. and He comes to His people, and He welcomes you home with these words, that you have been forgiven of all your sins in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You are a new creation in Christ, resurrected to life, abundant and eternal. You have been and are forgiven. That's the truth. Believe it, and it causes us to sing. [00:22:22] (36 seconds)
there might have been a wooden spoon on the way the door is locked and they are scared they're still believing that they too might come under arrest that they too might be imprisoned or even be killed for following jesus they have reports from some in their group that jesus is alive we talked about the two going to emmaus last week and mary and pete i mean there's some people that have seen jesus been comforted even taught by him at this point but the group hasn't seen him they've just heard reports so what's true what's happening where is he i mean some scholars even suggest that maybe the door is locked because they're not just for fear of uh the pharisees and those jews they're for fear of one particular jew jesus coming back [00:56:59] (49 seconds)
the disciples and the followers of jesus in that moment what they needed above all things was peace and forgiveness and not just for themselves but they needed to practice that forgiveness forgiveness for those who had perpetrated this unjust punishment forgiveness for judas and forgiveness for themselves you you can't have abundant and eternal life if you live in the bitterness of unforgiveness i'm going to say that again you can't live in the abundance of eternal life abundant and eternal life if you live in the bitterness of unforgiveness and jesus knew this he practiced it remember what he says from the cross remember we a good friday one of the seven last words that we talked about father for for they know not what they do if the disciples were going to be able to take on the ministry and the message that jesus was calling them to that he knew was coming then they needed to let go of their anger and their bitterness and their disappointment their shame and their guilt they needed to know that they were forgiven of their sins and they needed to forgive those whom they were holding sins against [01:16:06] (67 seconds)
they needed to live grounded in the peace of god the transforming peace that jesus won and offer to all who come the same forgiveness and peace that is jesus to give there were two things that jesus saw and understood they need peace and they need forgiveness and that's just what he does the power and the spiritual gifts will come later the indwelling the baptism of the holy spirit will happen on the day of pentecost but in that moment the spirit descended and there was peace and forgiveness and renewal and resurrection for all in that room [01:17:10] (42 seconds)
what doors does jesus find you locked behind this morning what sort of anxiety or fear or anger or resentment or unforgiveness are you locked behind this morning [01:20:46] (15 seconds)
are you feeling hopeless are you confused are you unsure of where god is or what god is doing are you struggling with who you are or what your purpose in life is what are you closed up behind well jesus has come to free you to raise you to raise you up and to breathe on you today [01:21:44] (23 seconds)
just as he did long ago he's still breathing out peace and he offers forgiveness new life and a fresh start and resurrection this isn't just a momentary reality that jesus offered to those in the upper room no down probably no but no but no [01:22:47] (17 seconds)
It's great to have a place on earth that we feel comfortable and is home to us. But this is a broken world. Amen? And our citizenship where we truly have standing, legal standing, where we belong before the throne of God is in heaven. And it's coming. But it also happens when we gather. [00:09:34] (29 seconds)
We're grateful for the power of the resurrection that literally raises us to new life here and promises eternal life with you. For our citizenship is in heaven with you. [00:10:41] (15 seconds)
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