Preview: An in depth study of the fruits of the spirit. This is the fourth lesson in a thirteen-part series of lessons on this subject.
Pre-reading: Acts 10:28, Acts 10:34-38, Acts 10:43.
Scripture Reading: Mark 4:35-41.
Memory Verse: Galatians 5:22.
1. Should it help us to stop worrying and start trusting our Lord when we read the foregoing Scriptures? Discuss.
2. What must we do if we sincerely desire to be at peace with ourselves and others? John 16:13, John 16:23-28, John 16:33.
3. What hinders us from having complete trust in the loving care of our Savior? I John 3:22-24, I John 4:15-18.
Note: There is no genuine or lasting peace apart from love and trust in God through Jesus Christ. If we truly believe that He is who He says He is, then we can cast all our cares on Him with complete confidence that He will never leave or forsake those who trust and obey. He is greater than all of our problems.
4. How does God administer peace to those who put their trust in Him? John 14:1-3, John 14:6, John 14:23-27.
5. Is this promise of peace only to those who look to Him for peace? Psalm 28:1-2, Psalm 28:7-9, Psalm 29:10-11, Psalm 119:165, Psalm 2:1-12.
6. Is God’s peace confined to any one race or nation of people? Why not? Ephesians 2:11-22.
Note: When we look at the turmoil and chaotic condition of the various war torn nations, we are prone sometimes to wonder why God permits humanity to suffer such devastation. We must remember that even in the worst storms of life, God will give inward peace to any individual who loves and trusts Him. Peace does not depend on the absence of trouble and trials. It is a state of being between God and anyone anywhere who will accept the Gospel of peace (Jesus Christ).
7. How is this accomplished? Colossians 3:1-17.
8. What is the greatest gift that we can share with those hurting people who often have no hope? Matthew 28:16-20, Luke 24:47-48, Romans 10:8-17.
Note: Sending food, clothing, etc. to those war torn nations is good, but that aid is only a temporary fix for their trouble. The greatest hope that we can give them is the saving Gospel of Christ. This is the only thing that will ever bring true and lasting peace. If you can’t go, support those who can with your prayers, encouraging words, and finances. Pray for those who work with the printed literature, which often reaches those who may not be reached by messengers and missionaries.
9. Can those who have experienced the peace of God in times of stress and affliction better witness to others who are suffering? Why? II Corinthians 1:1-10.
10. What must we do to keep this peace from God alive in our heart? Philippians 3:8-14, Philippians 4:4-9.
To Be Continued…
Other Lessons* in this series:
The Fruit of the Spirit - A Tree Planted By the Rivers of Water: Part 1 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Love: Part 2 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy: Part 3 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Peace: Part 4 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Long-suffering: Part 5 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Gentleness: Part 6 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Goodness: Part 7 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 8 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 9 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faith: Part 10 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Meekness: Part 11 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit is Temperance: Part 12 of 13
The Fruit of the Spirit in Review: Part 13 of 13
*Lessons in a series may not necessarily be in the same category.