In John 20:19 and 21, Jesus appears to His disciples after the resurrection, offering them a profound message: “Peace be with you”. For me, this wasn’t just a casual greeting; it was a powerful declaration, a promise of divine tranquility in the face of fear and uncertainty. Understanding the depth of this post-resurrection promise offers solace and guidance, especially when I’m grappling with daily anxieties and seeking God’s peace. In this Bible study, I want to explore the significance of this message, connecting it to my life and the enduring need for peace that only Christ can provide.

The Setting: Fear and Uncertainty

The Gospel of John tells that the disciples were gathered behind locked doors, “for fear of the Jews”. They were in hiding, gripped by fear in the aftermath of Jesus’ crucifixion. Their leader was gone, their hopes seemed shattered, and the threat of persecution loomed large. In this environment of fear and uncertainty, Jesus appears, offering not a rebuke, but a word of peace.

Like the disciples, I too have often found myself metaphorically “behind locked doors,” paralyzed by fear, anxiety, and the overwhelming stresses of life. I’ve learned that recognizing my anxieties is the first step toward accepting the peace that Jesus offers. I often struggle with anxiety and stress, and I have a tendency to focus on worries. I need to be reminded of the peace that God offers. This personal reflection highlights the relatability of the disciples’ fear and the universal need for reassurance and peace.

“Peace Be With You”: More Than Just a Greeting

When Jesus says, “Peace be with you,” He is offering more than just a polite greeting. He is imparting a gift, a treasure that is “dazzling in delicate beauty yet strong enough to withstand all onslaughts”. This peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God amidst trouble. It is a peace that transcends understanding, a peace that guards the heart and mind in Christ Jesus.

Jesus insists on offering His peace, urging believers to accept it. This insistence underscores the importance of actively receiving God’s peace, making it a daily practice to combat anxiety and stress. The passage in John 14:27 further clarifies this, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”.

The Resurrection Context: A New Reality

The message of peace is deeply intertwined with the resurrection. It is only after Jesus has conquered death that He can offer this profound peace. The resurrection signifies a new reality, a victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life. This new reality transforms the context of fear and uncertainty. The disciples’ fear was rooted in the apparent defeat of Jesus, but the resurrection reveals that this defeat was not the end. It was a necessary step in God’s plan, leading to ultimate triumph and the offer of enduring peace.

“As the Father Has Sent Me, I Also Send You”

Following the declaration of peace, Jesus commissions His disciples: “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you”. This commissioning connects the disciples’ mission to Jesus’ own mission. Just as Jesus was sent by the Father to bring God’s love and redemption to the world, the disciples are now sent to continue this work. This is an invitation to share in the ministry of reconciliation, offering the same peace and hope that they have received from Jesus.

Applying the Promise Today of “Peace be with You”

The promise of “Peace be with you” is not just for the disciples in that upper room. It is for all who yearn for Jesus, all who seek refuge from the storms of life. In a world filled with anxiety, stress, and uncertainty, this promise offers a lifeline.

To apply this promise today, we must:

• Acknowledge the need for peace: Like the disciples, I must honestly assess my fears and anxieties. Recognizing the areas where peace is lacking is crucial for seeking and receiving God’s gift.
• Receive God’s peace: I need to intentionally choose to receive the peace that Jesus offers, recognizing it as a rare treasure that can withstand any onslaught. This involves actively rejecting fear and anxiety, and replacing them with trust and faith in God’s provision. I am learning to sit quietly and allow God’s peace to settle over me.
• Practice Gratitude: Developing an “attitude of gratitude” has been a game changer for me. Thanking God for His peace and His presence in the midst of struggles helps me to shift my focus from worries and anxieties to the blessings and promises of God.
• Live with Regal Dignity: Embracing self-respect and humility involves learning to “wear My Peace with regal dignity”. This is a lifelong journey, but one that is worth pursuing.

“Peace Be With You” in your Trauma

I have found that scripture in John is relevant to those healing from trauma. It is possible to experience peace, even when wrestling with past hurts and difficult memories. The key is to continually surrender these burdens to God, trusting in His ability to heal and restore. I know that this is not always easy, but it is always possible with God’s help.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13). I pray that you embrace this peace, allowing it to transform your heart and mind. As you continue on your spiritual journey, remember that you are not alone. If you’re seeking ways to transform your struggle into strength, consider how faith plays a role in that process; check out “How to Transform Your Struggle into Strength“.

For those interested in understanding the roots of faith, the article “Naomi: A Comprehensive Biblical Character Study” offers deep insights. Additionally, for those grappling with inner turmoil, “How to Renew Your Mind & Overcome Inner Darkness” provides a beacon of hope. I encourage you to sign up for our newsletter to connect with others who share your desire for spiritual growth and healing. Together, we can support each other and grow in faith, always pointing back to the One who offers us true and lasting peace. “Peace Be With You”

References

• Jesus Calling: 365 by Sarah Young – https://www.jesuscalling.com/