Putting the Peace of God into Practice

Stefan Nitzschke April 24, 2022 Philippians 4:1-9

3 ways we are called to pursue peace

I. Develop Peace Among the Believers (2-3)

Philippians 4:2-3 - I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Philippians 1:27 - Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel…

1 Corinthians 11:19 - …for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. (ESV)

II. Guard Your Heart with the Peace of God (4-7)

Philippians 4:4-5 - Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.

Philippians 4:6a - Be anxious for nothing…

Matthew 26:38a - He said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, to the point of death…”

Matthew 6:25-34 - …do not be worried… why are you worried… Do not worry… do not worry…

Philippians 4:6 - Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

A. Prayer

B. Supplication

C. Thanksgiving

Philippians 4:7 - …the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

III. Guard Your Mind with the God of Peace (8-9)

Philippians 4:8-9 - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (ESV)

Romans 12:2a - …do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…

2 Corinthians 10:5b - …[take] every thought captive to the obedience of Christ

Philippians 4:8 - …whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (ESV)

2 Corinthians 10:5b-6a - …[take] every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience…

Philippians 4:9b - …practice these things… the God of peace will be with you.

Authors

Stefan Nitzschke

Roles

Pastor of College Ministries - Faith Church

Director of Faith West Community Center - Community Ministries West

Bio

B.S. - Management Information Systems, Iowa State University
M.Div. - Faith Bible Seminary

Stefan has been serving on the pastoral team at Faith Church since 2016. He and his wife have a passion for discipleship and evangelism and are the blessed parents of five carefree boys and one sweet girl. Stefan is certified as a biblical counselor through the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Christian Preaching at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.