If you could be any superhero for a day, who would it be and why?
The sermon talked about different ways people try to achieve peace—pragmatism (to make anything happen you’ve gotta make some kind of deal, some kind of compromise), policy (if the rules aren’t working it’s because the people don’t understand them well enough. If they understood better, if they knew more, then peace could be achieved), provocation (calling out or angering people into movement) or passivity (seeking peace without involving yourself in the world). Which one do you find yourself leaning toward the most, and why?
The Sadducees thought peace came through compromise even at the expense of truth and conviction. Can you think of examples where you may have compromised your beliefs or values in order to “keep the peace?” What are some ways that we can be peacemakers without compromising our beliefs and values?
Read Matthew 23:23-28. The Pharisees were so focused on achieving peace through policy that they followed the letter of the law and missed the spirit of it. This perspective can often lead us to do the “right things” for the wrong reasons. If I do X, Y, and Z then my life will be go the way I want it. This heart posture often reveals itself through judgement and condemnation of others that don’t follow “the rules” the way we do. What are some areas or relationships in our lives that we may be keeping the “letter of the law” but missing “the spirit of the law?” (In our marriages, friendships, workplaces, etc.) What are some practical ways that we follow the “letter of the law” while keeping our eyes focused on the “spirit of the law” or the heart behind the law.
The Zealots thought peace came through fighting back. They didn’t understand the revolutionary take on true peace that Jesus taught and modeled. In what ways does today’s church seek peace through zealous ways and means? Do you think it’s any more or less effective today then it was in Jesus’ time? What are some practical ways that we can be zealous in a way that builds the Kingdom up? (ie. Zealous in our love of God and one another)
The sermon mentioned that when the Jews revolted against Rome, the Roman Empire responded with extreme violence. How does this historical event highlight the power of Jesus’ approach to peace through reconciliation instead of retaliation?
The Essenes removed themselves from the world to avoid conflict. Jesus, however, engaged with people where they were and commanded us to do the same. Read Luke 8:15-16. How can we actively bring Christ’s peace and light into a world full of conflict?
Jesus’ peace is described as “shalom”—wholeness and completeness. What are some areas in your life where you feel like you are lacking shalom or wholeness?
Read John 14:27. How does the peace and security offered by Jesus differ from the peace and security that the world offers. What are some practical ways to tell the difference between the two?
What are some practical ways we as individuals, small groups and as a church reflect the peace of Jesus in our relationships, communities, and workplaces? What is one tangible way you can bring the peace of Christ into a specific situation or relationship this week?
