ADVENT: PEACE
Message by Josh Mutter – Dec 18, 2022
Big Idea: At Advent, we are celebrating how Jesus has come to bring us God’s peace
Isaiah 9:2-5 NIV The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
1. The peace we long for is the promise of better days
Isaiah 9:3 NIV You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder.
Isaiah 9:4 NIV For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor.
Isaiah 9:5 NIV Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
2. The peace we long for is initiated by God
Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Matthew 15:19 NIV … out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
The advent theme of Peace invites us to see Jesus as the one who can address the root causes of conflict in our lives.
Application: The focus of our minds has a big impact on our ability to experience God’s peace.
You can find the sermon on YouTube here.
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