Peace Be Unto You Series

PEACE BE UNTO YOU

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 20:19-23

Key Verse: “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” (John 20:21)

Supporting Texts: John 14:27; Philippians 4:6-7; Isaiah 26:3; Colossians 3:15

INTRODUCTION

In John 20:19, the disciples were gathered behind closed doors, gripped by fear after the crucifixion of Jesus. Uncertainty and anxiety filled their hearts as they wondered what would happen next. It was in this atmosphere of fear that Jesus appeared among them and spoke these powerful words: “Peace be unto you.”

This greeting was not merely a customary expression; it was a divine impartation. Jesus brought a supernatural peace that calmed their fears, reassured their hearts, and restored their confidence. His presence transformed their panic into peace.

Today, many believers face situations that cause fear, anxiety, and distress. However, the same Jesus who spoke peace to His disciples still speaks peace to His people. His peace is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in His presence and victory.

1. THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST BRINGS PEACE

When Jesus appeared, His presence immediately changed the atmosphere.

a. Peace in His Presence (John 20:19)

Jesus stood among them and spoke peace into their fear.

b. God’s Presence Removes Fear (Isaiah 41:10)

The assurance of God’s presence drives away fear.

c. Calm in the Midst of Storms (Mark 4:39)

Jesus brings peace even in turbulent situations.

d. Assurance of His Nearness (Psalm 46:1)

God is a present help in times of trouble.

e. Biblical Example:

When Jesus walked on water and entered the boat, the storm ceased, and peace was restored (Matthew 14:29-32).

2. THE PEACE OF CHRIST OVERCOMES FEAR AND ANXIETY

Jesus addressed the fear in the hearts of His disciples with His peace.

a. Freedom from Fear (2 Timothy 1:7)

God has not given a spirit of fear.

b. Peace That Surpasses Understanding (Philippians 4:6-7)

God’s peace guards the heart and mind.

c. A Steadfast Mind (Isaiah 26:3)

Perfect peace comes to those who trust in God.

d. Casting Burdens on the Lord (1 Peter 5:7)

Believers are called to release their anxieties to God.

e. Biblical Example:

David found peace in God even when surrounded by enemies (Psalm 3:1-5).

3. PEACE COMES THROUGH THE FINISHED WORK OF CHRIST

The peace Jesus gave was based on His completed work on the cross.

a. Reconciliation with God (Romans 5:1)

Justification brings peace with God.

b. The Gift of Peace (John 14:27)

Christ gives peace that the world cannot give.

c. The Blood of the Cross (Colossians 1:20)

Peace was made through the sacrifice of Jesus.

d. Rest for the Soul (Matthew 11:28–29)

Christ invites believers into His rest.

e. Biblical Example:

After the resurrection, the disciples’ fear was replaced with joy and peace when they saw the Lord (John 20:20).

4. PEACE EMPOWERS BELIEVERS FOR THEIR MISSION

After declaring peace, Jesus sent His disciples on their mission.

a. Commissioned with Peace (John 20:21)

Peace prepares believers for service.

b. Boldness Through Assurance (Acts 4:31)

Peace gives confidence to fulfil God’s calling.

c. The Role of the Holy Spirit (John 20:22)

Jesus breathed on them, imparting the Spirit.

d. Living as Ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20)

Believers are sent to represent Christ.

e. Biblical Example:

The disciples, once fearful, became bold witnesses after receiving peace and the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:14-18).

CONCLUSION

The words “Peace be unto you” are a powerful reminder that Christ offers peace in every situation. His peace calms fears, restores hearts, and brings assurance even in uncertain times.

Believers are called not only to receive this peace but to live in it daily. When we trust in Christ and rely on His finished work, we can walk in peace regardless of circumstances and boldly fulfil our divine purpose.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, let Your peace fill my heart and remove every fear, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, help me to trust in You in every situation, in Jesus name.

3. Father, let Your peace guard my heart and mind continually, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, deliver me from every spirit of anxiety and worry, in Jesus name.

5. Father, help me to walk in the assurance of Your presence, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, let the peace of Christ rule in my heart always, in Jesus name.

7. Father, strengthen me to remain calm in every storm of life, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, empower me to fulfil my divine assignment with confidence, in Jesus name.

9. Father, let Your peace overflow in my life and influence others, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, establish my life in unshakable peace, in Jesus name.