Overview
The sermon explores how Jesus provides peace through promises rather than mere recommendations, focusing on John chapter 14. Three main promises are addressed for those who love Jesus: living as intended, experiencing union with God, and assurance of life beyond death.
Difference Between Worldly Peace and Jesus' Peace
- Worldly peace is temporary, earned by effort, self-focused, and circumstantial.
- Jesus' peace is lasting, unearned, and not dictated by circumstances.
- Troubled hearts may result from seeking peace as the world gives instead of Jesus’ promises.
Promises That Produce Peace
1. Living the Way You Were Meant to Live
- Loving Jesus leads to obedience to His commandments, not as obligation but as a natural outcome.
- Obedience without love leads to legalism; love without obedience leads to empty sentimentality.
- The promise is for gradual transformation to become more like Jesus and live life as designed.
2. Experiencing Life with God Near, With, and In You
- Jesus promises the Holy Spirit ("helper," "comforter," "advocate") to believers, ensuring God’s continuing presence.
- The Holy Spirit’s role includes guiding, comforting, advocating, and indwelling believers.
- This indwelling is described as God making His home within, renovating believers’ hearts over a lifetime.
3. Assurance of True Life Beyond Death
- As Jesus was resurrected, those who love Him will also live beyond death.
- Suffering, disappointment, or failure are not the end of the story for believers.
- Following Jesus includes self-denial and even suffering, but holds the ultimate promise of resurrection life.
Applicability of Promises
- The promises are specifically for those who love Jesus.
- Loving Jesus is a personal, relational commitment, not simply respect or admiration.
- The depth of love ("enough") is not the criteria—genuine love, however imperfect, suffices.
Invitation and Reflection
- Those recognizing a lack of love for Jesus are encouraged to honestly assess and pray for a softened heart.
- Believers are reassured that these promises are grounded in grace, not their ability to earn or keep them.
Conclusion and Prayer
- The sermon closes with thanks for God’s faithful promises and a plea for greater love and trust in Jesus.