Peace on Earth
VBC Albuquerque · Dec 5, 2023
This sermon explores the angelic proclamation of Jesus Christ's birth and the blessing of "Peace on Earth" in the context of a world filled with conflict and unrest. The pastor contrasts the condition of sinful humanity with the promise of true peace that can only be found in Christ and reconciliation with God.
The beginning of the sermon presents the main theme through the angel's proclamation in Luke 2:10-14, announcing the birth of the Savior and the blessing of "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men." The pastor emphasizes that this peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather an inner peace and reconciliation with God. This message is expressed through various Bible translations, each emphasizing different aspects of this sacred blessing.
The second section develops the desperate condition of humanity without Christ. The sermon cites Genesis 6:5 to show that human sin has become overwhelming, and James 4:1-2 reveals that the source of wars and conflicts is the desires warring within human hearts. Furthermore, Matthew 24:6-7 warns of coming wars, famines, and earthquakes, while Luke 12:51-53 shows that even Christ's coming brought division rather than the world's peace. These references illustrate that worldly peace is temporary and unreliable.
The third section applies the message of peace to the spiritual life of believers. The sermon points out that true peace comes from justification by faith (Romans 5:1, 10), where we are reconciled with God through Christ's death and resurrection. John 14:27 and John 16:33 affirm that Christ gives us a peace unlike that of the world, a peace that remains even when we experience trials in the world. Psalm 46:1-3 and Philippians 4:7 further confirm that God is our refuge and strength, and His peace will guard our hearts and minds.
The fourth section emphasizes service and blessing. The sermon incorporates Numbers 6:22-26, where God instructs Moses how to bless the people of Israel, a blessing that concludes with a request for God to grant peace to all people. This shows that peace is a grace given by God, and believers are called to convey this peace to others. Colossians 1:2 and 3:15 remind us that the peace of Christ should reign in our hearts, and we must be grateful for having been called to become one body.
The sermon concludes by returning to the angel's words in Luke 2:10-14 (BDM version), with the blessing "Peace on earth to those whom He loves." This reminder emphasizes that true peace is not the absence of war or suffering in the world, but personal reconciliation with God through Christ. It is a peace that surpasses all human understanding and forms the foundation of the believer's hope.