Knowing the Peace of God

Ernie expresses joy in gathering with fellow believers in Richmond and emphasizes the importance of prayer and thanksgiving as outlined in Philippians 4:6-9. He highlights that God is a God of peace, desiring that His children experience harmonious wholeness, even amidst life's challenges. The Hebrew word "Shalom" and the Greek "Eirene" signify this peace, which is not merely the absence of conflict but a complete state of well-being. Ernie explains that through Jesus Christ, believers can have peace with God, achieved through justification by faith, which removes the guilt of sin. He encourages the congregation to embrace this peace and not dwell in guilt or anxiety, as God has already forgiven their sins. Ernie also discusses the importance of casting anxieties on God, as He cares for His children. He urges believers to focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly concerns, which often lead to anxiety. Finally, he calls on the congregation to be ambassadors of peace, promoting reconciliation and harmony among themselves and with the world, reflecting the peace they have received from God.

Outline of Main Points

1. Joy in fellowship and prayer.
2. God as a God of peace.
3. Understanding peace in biblical terms (Shalom and Eirene).
4. Peace with God through justification by faith.
5. Encouragement to embrace forgiveness and reject guilt.
6. Importance of casting anxieties on God.
7. Focus on heavenly treasures over earthly concerns.
8. Call to be ambassadors of peace and reconciliation.