This weekend we will explore what it means that Isaiah speaks about the Messiah as “the Prince of peace” and that Jesus says that He bestows peace upon His disciples after the resurrection.
Passages: Isaiah 9:6; John 14:27; Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:14-18
SERMON OUTLINE
“And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6b)
Messiah as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
Jesus as the Messiah Who Brings Another Kind of Peace (Luke 2:14; Matt. 10:34; John 14:27)
The Peace Jesus Brings with God (Romans 5:1)
The Peace Jesus Brings with Ourselves (Matthew 11:28-30)
The Peace Jesus Brings with Others (Ephesians 2:14-18)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What sort of peace do you think you need, others need, and the world needs right now?
- As we continue our series, “Name Above All Names,” this week we focus on Jesus as the “Prince of Peace.” Begin your study by quieting yourself before God. Next, ask God to. speak to you through His word as you read Isaiah 9:6 aloud.
- This verse lists a number of descriptions of the Messiah who will come. What do you think those titles mean? Why do you think “prince of peace” is the final title given?
- When Jesus was born, the angels announced his birth with a message of joy and peace. Read Luke 2:9-14. What was the reason the angels announced peace with Jesus’ birth?
- Throughout Jesus’ ministry, themes of peace come in again and again. However, Jesus confounds His disciples and other listeners by telling them that the peace is different than they might expect. Read both John 14:27 and Matthew 10:34 aloud. What do these tell us about Jesus’ peace?
- In what ways do you think God’s peace could bring divisions?
- Let’s look at three passages that talk about the peace that Jesus brings. Read each passage and reflect on what they tell us about the peace found in Jesus:
- Romans 5:1
- Matthew 11:28-30
- Ephesians 2:14-18
- How would you summarize the peace that God brings in Jesus Christ?
- What does this mean to you personally?
- What is one thing that God is speaking to you through this study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Isaiah 9:6 this week.
- Do a word or theme study on ‘peace’ or ‘peace of God’ in Scripture this week to gain a better understanding of peace.
- Explore The Bible Project’s online resources on themes of peace and shalom.