5 SEPTEMBER
Peace with God and conscience
‘Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.’ Hebrews 13:20–21
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Philippians 4:4–9
He bestows peace: I create the fruit of the lips; peace to him that is afar off [Isaiah 57:19]; and only he can do it. He gives peace by faith: Romans 5:1 [Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ]. Let us consider the branches:
(i) peace with God. By nature we are at war, he with us and we with him. All the evils and miseries we feel and fear are tokens of his displeasure, and our spirits and conduct show our enmity, especially when he touches us closely either by his Word or providence. Now this war ceases when we believe. He is at peace with us: no more condemnation, though perhaps the comfort of it is not yet known. He then supports and teaches, and blesses the soul with spiritual blessings. The enmity on the sinner’s part is ended and he is made willing to serve and love the Lord.
(ii) peace of conscience. Many are in a safe state before they know it assuredly in themselves—but in due time he will show it them. From hence flows:
(a) a peaceful frame of mind. Where sin is pardoned, all is well. Not that there will be no exercises and distresses, but there is a ground of peace in the heart, and in proportion as faith and grace grow, it has power to rule in the heart, as is expressed [in] Colossians 3:15 [And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful].
(b) a disposition of peace towards others. The Lord’s peace sweetens the spirit and subdues selfishness. By nature we are hateful and hating one another.
FOR MEDITATION: Try yourselves by these things. Sinners, can you be content to remain at war with the God of peace?
SERMON SERIES: HEBREWS 13:20–21, NO. 1 [3/3]
Milo 