Living in Peace: The Transformative Power of the Spirit

 

Summary

In Romans 8:5-8, Paul contrasts those who live according to the flesh with those who live according to the Spirit. This distinction is crucial for understanding the Christian life. Those who are in Christ are no longer governed by the flesh but by the Spirit, which brings life and peace. This transformation is not just a future promise but begins in this life. The righteousness of the law is fulfilled in those who walk according to the Spirit, a process initiated by God through Christ. The carnal mind is hostile to God and cannot please Him, but the spiritual mind is aligned with God's will, leading to peace.

Paul emphasizes that peace is a significant aspect of the Christian life. Peace with God is foundational, as it removes the enmity and rebellion inherent in the natural man. This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a profound reconciliation with God, made possible through Christ's sacrifice. The Christian, therefore, delights in God's law, seeing it as an expression of His character and a guide for living.

Internally, the Christian experiences peace as the end of restlessness and dissatisfaction. The life of sin is marked by a constant search for fulfillment, which is never truly found. In contrast, the Christian has found rest in the truth of God, no longer seeking but having arrived at a place of understanding and contentment. This inner tranquility is akin to being at the center of a hurricane, where there is calm despite the chaos around.

Moreover, the Christian life is marked by an inner harmony, a unity of purpose and will that was absent before. While the struggle against sin remains, it is no longer a central conflict but a battle against the remnants of sin in the flesh. The Christian's heart is no longer divided; it is fixed on God, resulting in a life that pleases Him. This peace extends to relationships with others, fostering unity and understanding within the community of believers.

Key Takeaways:

- Peace with God: The Christian life begins with peace with God, a reconciliation that removes the enmity and rebellion of the natural man. This peace is foundational for fulfilling the righteousness of the law, as it aligns the believer's heart with God's will. [11:09]

- End of Restlessness: Becoming a Christian ends the restlessness and dissatisfaction inherent in a life of sin. The believer finds rest in the truth of God, no longer seeking fulfillment in the fleeting pleasures of the world. [22:50]

- Inner Tranquility: The Christian experiences an inner tranquility, akin to being at the center of a hurricane. Despite external chaos, there is a profound peace that guards the heart and mind in Christ Jesus. [30:13]

- Unity of Purpose: The Christian life is marked by an inner harmony, a unity of purpose and will. While the struggle against sin remains, it is no longer a central conflict but a battle against the remnants of sin in the flesh. [32:28]

- Peace with Others: The peace that characterizes the Christian life extends to relationships with others, fostering unity and understanding within the community of believers. This peace is a testimony to the transformative power of the Spirit. [35:52]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:13] - Introduction to Romans 8:5-8
- [01:10] - Amplifying the Righteousness of the Law
- [02:02] - Transformation in Christ
- [03:22] - Distinction Between Flesh and Spirit
- [04:45] - Life and Peace in the Spirit
- [06:19] - The Significance of Peace
- [07:25] - The Mechanics of Peace
- [09:20] - Justification and Peace
- [10:54] - Peace with God
- [13:46] - Knowledge of God and Love
- [16:39] - Peace Within
- [20:11] - End of Restlessness
- [25:38] - Rest in the Truth
- [29:58] - Inner Tranquility and Harmony
- [35:52] - Peace with Others
- [37:20] - Pleasing God
- [42:35] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Romans 8:5-8
- 1 John 4:9
- 1 John 5:3

---

Observation Questions:

1. According to Romans 8:5-8, what are the characteristics of those who live according to the flesh versus those who live according to the Spirit? How does this distinction affect their relationship with God? [00:13]

2. In the sermon, it was mentioned that the carnal mind is hostile to God. What does this hostility look like, and why can't it please God? [11:24]

3. The sermon describes the Christian life as one of peace. What are the different aspects of peace that a Christian experiences according to the sermon? [10:54]

4. How does the sermon explain the concept of "peace with God," and why is it foundational for fulfilling the righteousness of the law? [11:09]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. The sermon emphasizes that peace is not just the absence of conflict but a profound reconciliation with God. How does this understanding of peace change the way one views their relationship with God? [10:54]

2. The sermon describes the Christian's inner tranquility as being at the center of a hurricane. How does this metaphor help explain the Christian's experience of peace amidst life's chaos? [30:13]

3. The sermon suggests that the Christian life involves a unity of purpose and will. How does this unity manifest in a believer's daily life, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this process? [32:28]

4. The sermon mentions that the Christian's heart is no longer divided. What does it mean for a Christian to have a heart fixed on God, and how does this impact their struggle against sin? [35:17]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your current relationship with God. Do you feel at peace with Him, or is there an area of enmity or rebellion that needs reconciliation? How can you address this in your spiritual life? [11:09]

2. The sermon describes the end of restlessness as a key aspect of the Christian life. Are there areas in your life where you still feel restless or dissatisfied? What steps can you take to find rest in God's truth? [22:50]

3. Consider the metaphor of being at the center of a hurricane. How can you cultivate a sense of inner tranquility in your life, even when external circumstances are chaotic? [30:13]

4. The sermon highlights the importance of unity within the community of believers. How can you contribute to fostering peace and understanding in your church or small group? [35:52]

5. Think about a specific relationship in your life where there is conflict or misunderstanding. How can the peace of Christ guide you in seeking reconciliation and unity in that relationship? [35:52]

6. The sermon mentions that the Christian life is marked by a unity of purpose and will. What is one area of your life where you feel divided or conflicted, and how can you align it more closely with God's will? [32:28]

7. Reflect on the concept of delighting in God's law. How can you develop a deeper appreciation for God's commandments, and what practical steps can you take to live them out more fully? [18:18]

Devotional

Day 1: Reconciliation with God Brings True Peace
The Christian life begins with a profound peace with God, a reconciliation that removes the enmity and rebellion inherent in the natural man. This peace is foundational for fulfilling the righteousness of the law, as it aligns the believer's heart with God's will. Through Christ's sacrifice, believers are no longer at odds with God but are brought into a harmonious relationship with Him. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep-seated reconciliation that transforms the believer's life. It is the starting point for a life that seeks to please God and live according to His Spirit. [11:09]

Isaiah 32:17-18 (ESV): "And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever. My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places."

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you feel distant from God? How can you seek reconciliation and peace with Him today?


Day 2: Rest in God's Truth Ends Restlessness
Becoming a Christian ends the restlessness and dissatisfaction inherent in a life of sin. The believer finds rest in the truth of God, no longer seeking fulfillment in the fleeting pleasures of the world. This rest is not passive but an active engagement with the truth that God provides. It is a rest that comes from knowing one's identity in Christ and the assurance of His promises. The believer no longer chases after temporary satisfactions but finds contentment in the eternal truths of God's Word. This rest is a gift that transforms the believer's perspective on life and priorities. [22:50]

Jeremiah 6:16 (ESV): "Thus says the Lord: 'Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’"

Reflection: What worldly pursuit are you holding onto that prevents you from finding rest in God's truth? How can you let go of it today?


Day 3: Inner Tranquility Amidst Life's Storms
The Christian experiences an inner tranquility, akin to being at the center of a hurricane. Despite external chaos, there is a profound peace that guards the heart and mind in Christ Jesus. This tranquility is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the believer's relationship with God. It is a peace that surpasses understanding, providing stability and calm in the midst of life's storms. The believer can face challenges with confidence, knowing that God's peace is a constant presence. This inner tranquility is a testament to the transformative power of living according to the Spirit. [30:13]

Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling."

Reflection: When faced with chaos, how can you remind yourself of the inner peace that God provides? What practical steps can you take to focus on His tranquility today?


Day 4: Unity of Purpose in the Christian Life
The Christian life is marked by an inner harmony, a unity of purpose and will. While the struggle against sin remains, it is no longer a central conflict but a battle against the remnants of sin in the flesh. The believer's heart is no longer divided; it is fixed on God, resulting in a life that pleases Him. This unity of purpose is a reflection of the believer's commitment to living according to the Spirit. It brings clarity and direction, enabling the believer to pursue God's will with determination and joy. This harmony is a powerful witness to the world of the transformative work of the Spirit. [32:28]

Philippians 2:1-2 (ESV): "So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind."

Reflection: In what ways can you align your daily actions with your purpose in Christ? How can you cultivate a unified heart and mind in your walk with God?


Day 5: Extending Peace to Others
The peace that characterizes the Christian life extends to relationships with others, fostering unity and understanding within the community of believers. This peace is a testimony to the transformative power of the Spirit, as it enables believers to live in harmony with one another. It is a peace that breaks down barriers and builds bridges, promoting reconciliation and love. The believer is called to be a peacemaker, reflecting God's peace in interactions with others. This peace is not passive but actively seeks to create an environment of mutual respect and support within the body of Christ. [35:52]

Ephesians 4:2-3 (ESV): "With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Reflection: Is there a relationship in your life that needs healing? How can you take a step towards fostering peace and understanding in that relationship today?

Quotes


The Christian is a man who's arrived. I'm not seeking for truth in this pulpit this evening. I'm here because I found it. Can the blind lead the blind? Of course not, as our love says, they'll both fall into the ditch. The Christian's not an end of seeking for truth. He's a man who's found it, found by it if you like. I don't get but all I know is that he's found it. [00:25:38]

The Christian is a man who is living at the center of a hurricane. I understand it at the center of the hurricane there is a point of complete rest. Everything's twirling round and round, not at the center. That's fixed. So is the Christian. So the Apostle Paul is able to say in nothing be anxious. [00:29:58]

The Christian is a man who can please God and who does please God. In other words, he is just repeating what he said in the first half of us for that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us right the people in whom the righteousness of the law is fulfilled the people who please God. [00:37:20]

The Christian is a man who has come to see and to know God, God as He is, God as He has revealed Himself. And the result of that is that he loves God. No man can be a Christian without realizing this, that in spite of his having been the rebel that he was, in spite of all that was so true of him in sin, the perversion and the thousand sins, the pollution, in spite of the fact that he deserved nothing but hell, that God so loved him. [00:13:46]

The Christian is a man who has got life and peace, yes, and primarily peace with God. What does that mean? It means this: here is a man who really has come to a knowledge of God as God is. The first thing that is true about the Christian is that he is the only man who has a true conception of God. [00:11:09]

The Christian is a man who is being sanctified. He's already sanctified in Christ Jesus, but he is progressively and increasingly being sanctified, and he is one who, because he is in Christ, will finally be completely sanctified, entirely sanctified. He will be faultless, he will be blameless, he will be without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. [00:42:35]

The Christian is a man who has found this place of rest and of peace as regards his essential personality. There's no longer any division there. Very well then, he has peace with God, and he has peace within, but he also has peace with others. [00:35:52]

The Christian is a man who delights in the law of God. Did you notice 1 John 5:3? His commandments are not grievous, says John. That's the Christian. His commandments are not grievous. They are grievous to everybody else, but they're not grievous to the Christian. A man who objects to the Ten Commandments is not a Christian. [00:18:13]

The Christian is a man who has got an inner tranquility. Life and peace. What do you mean? Well, I mean this: the Christian is a man who is living at the center of a hurricane. I understand it at the center of the hurricane there is a point of complete rest. Everything's twirling round and round, not at the center. That's fixed. [00:30:13]

The Christian is a man who has found rest in the truth. That's the glorious thing about it. A Christian is a man who's arrived. I'm not seeking for truth in this pulpit this evening. I'm here because I found it. Can the blind lead the blind? Of course not, as our love says, they'll both fall into the ditch. [00:22:50]

The Christian is a man who is no longer in the position of Romans 7:24, "Oh wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me?" Now that's a central division, as the Apostle pointed out to us. With the mind, you see, I serve the law of God, but with the flesh, the law of sin. [00:32:28]

The Christian is a man who is at peace with God and because he's at peace with God, there is this wonderful possibility of the righteousness of the law being fulfilled in him, but only in him, which is exactly what Paul had said in verse 4, that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit. [00:35:52]

Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 25, 2017. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?