THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS PEACE Lesson 4 for the 23rd of January, 2010

Peace with God Peace in Jesus Peace in this world Peace at home Peace in the church

Why can we have true peace only if we have peace with God? What does “to have peace with God” mean? Peace with God Why can we have true peace only if we have peace with God?

“When we believe in Christ as our personal Saviour, the peace of Christ is ours. The reconciliation provided for us in the atonement of Christ is the foundation of our peace” E.G.W. (Lift Him up, November 14)

What secret did Jesus reveal that we can have peace? Peace in Jesus What secret did Jesus reveal that we can have peace? How can selfishness and pride prevent us from having the peace that Jesus gives?

“There is a condition to the rest and peace here offered us by Christ “There is a condition to the rest and peace here offered us by Christ. It is that of yoking up with Him. All who will accept the condition will find that the yoke of Christ will help them to bear every burden needful for them to carry. Without Christ at our side to bear the heaviest part of the load, we must indeed say that it is heavy. But yoked with Him to our car of duty, the burdens of life may all be lightly carried. And just in proportion as man acts in willing obedience to the requirements of God will come rest of spirit”. E.G.W. (That I may know Him, April 24)

How can we achieve peace in the turbulences of this world? Peace in this world Why is the peace that Jesus gives us different from the one the world offers? “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” (John, 14: 27)

“Happiness drawn from earthly sources is as changeable as varying circumstances can make it; but the peace of Christ is a constant and abiding peace. It does not depend upon any circumstances in life, on the amount of worldly goods or the number of earthly friends. Christ is the fountain of living water, and happiness drawn from Him can never fail”. E.G.W. (Reflecting Christ, September 6)

What pieces of advice can we find in God’s Word to have peace at home? Home is the best place in this world to find peace. What can I do to have peace at home, with God’s help? Peace at home What pieces of advice can we find in God’s Word to have peace at home?

“God wants parents and their families to come to the foot of the cross “God wants parents and their families to come to the foot of the cross. The settled peace of Jesus should abide with every member of the family: If Jesus comes into your home, he will say, "Peace be unto you."” E.G.W. (Review & Herald, August 14 1888)

What steps can I follow to be in peace with my brothers and sisters? Peace in the church What steps can I follow to be in peace with my brothers and sisters? “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans, 12: 18) How would you explain that text?

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, and peace “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, and peace. Discord and strife are the work of Satan and the fruit of sin. If we would as a people enjoy peace and love, we must put away our sins; we must come into harmony with God, and we shall be in harmony with one another.” E.G.W. (Lift Him up, October 26)

“The gospel is a message of peace “The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. The peace of Christ is born of truth. It is harmony with God. The world is at enmity with the law of God; sinners are at enmity with their Maker; and as a result they are at enmity with one another … Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for the purification and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of producing peace, because they do not reach the heart. The only power that can create or perpetuate true peace is the grace of Christ. When this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil passions that cause strife and dissension. The faces of men and women who walk and work with God express the peace of heaven. They are surrounded with the atmosphere of heaven. For these souls the kingdom of God has begun.” E.G.W. (God’s amazing grace, January 24)