Ruled by Peace, Anchored in Christ - Colossians 3:15
Main Idea: Embrace the peace of Christ as the ruling force in your heart, allowing His presence to transform every part of your life.
Introduction
Peace is one of life’s most sought-after treasures. The world offers temporary peace through distractions, possessions, or fleeting moments of calm. But today, we turn to a verse that speaks of a peace far greater, eternal, and transformative.
Paul’s letter to the Colossians contains profound truths about living a life shaped by Jesus. In Colossians 3:15, Paul writes:
"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful." (Colossians 3:15, NLT)
We’ll unpack this verse in light of its context, explore supporting Scriptures, and discover how the peace of Christ can truly transform our lives.
1. The Source of Peace: Christ Himself
"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts..." (Colossians 3:15a, NLT)
Paul wrote to the church in Colossae to counter false teachings and refocus them on the supremacy of Christ. In Chapter 3, he transitions to practical Christian living, urging believers to “set their sights on the realities of heaven” (Colossians 3:2). In verse 15, Paul highlights Christ's peace as central to living out this heavenly perspective.
The word for "peace" here is the Greek eirene, which carries the sense of wholeness, harmony, and rest. This peace originates from Christ’s finished work on the cross, reconciling us to God and granting us inner tranquility amidst life’s storms (see Colossians 1:20).
Paul uses the word "rule" (brabeuo), which in Greek refers to acting as an umpire or arbiter. Christ’s peace should govern our emotions, decisions, and interactions. It is not a passive feeling but an active, guiding force in our hearts.
Is the peace of Christ ruling in your heart today? Are you allowing His peace to guide your choices, relationships, and responses to challenges? To let Christ's peace reign, we must surrender control and trust in His sovereignty.
"I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid." (John 14:27, NLT)
Jesus promises a peace that the world cannot match. His peace is rooted in His unchanging presence and eternal promises.
R.C. Sproul said, "Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God."
Think of a ship sailing through a storm. Its anchor keeps it steady amidst the waves. Similarly, Christ’s peace anchors our hearts, keeping us steady in life’s trials.
2. The Call to Unity: Living in Peace
"For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace." (Colossians 3:15b, NLT)
Paul reminds the Colossians of their identity as members of Christ’s body—the church. Unity and peace among believers reflect Christ’s character and glorify God.
The phrase "live in peace" echoes Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21, where He asked for unity among His followers. The peace of Christ is not just personal; it is communal.
The Greek term for "called" (kaleo) implies a divine summons. Peace is not optional but essential for those who belong to Christ. When His peace rules in our hearts, it naturally overflows into our relationships, promoting harmony and reconciliation.
Are we fostering peace in our families, churches, and communities? Living in peace requires humility, forgiveness, and a commitment to resolve conflict in a Christlike manner.
"Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18, NLT)
Paul acknowledges that peace requires effort and, at times, sacrifice. As Christ-followers, we are called to take the initiative in pursuing peace.
Rick Warren writes, "Peacemaking is not avoiding conflict. It is actively seeking to resolve it."
Imagine a symphony orchestra. Each musician plays their part, but it’s the conductor who unites them in harmony. Christ is the conductor of our lives, ensuring we live in harmony with one another.
3. The Practice of Gratitude: A Heart of Thanks
"And always be thankful." (Colossians 3:15c, NLT)
Gratitude is a recurring theme in Colossians. In verse 16, Paul urges the church to let gratitude overflow in worship, and in verse 17, he calls for thanksgiving in everything. Gratitude fuels peace by shifting our focus from our problems to God’s faithfulness.
The Greek word for "thankful" (eucharistos) denotes a spirit of thanksgiving rooted in God’s grace (charis). When we remember Christ’s sacrifice and the hope we have in Him, gratitude becomes a natural response.
Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s will. It transforms complaining into praise and anxiety into trust. A thankful heart reflects a life ruled by Christ’s peace.
How often do we pause to thank God amidst life’s challenges? Practising gratitude deepens our awareness of His blessings and strengthens our faith.
"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NLT)
Even in trials, gratitude acknowledges God’s sovereignty and goodness.
Ann Voskamp writes, "Thanksgiving is the evidence of our acceptance of whatever He gives. Thanksgiving is the manifestation of our Yes! to His grace."
Think of a child receiving a gift. Their joy isn’t just in the gift itself but in the love of the giver. When we give thanks to God, we affirm His love and care for us.
Conclusion: Ruled by Peace, Anchored in Christ
Colossians 3:15 calls us to a life transformed by Christ’s peace. This peace comes from Christ alone, unites us as His body, and overflows in gratitude.
Application:
Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart daily. Seek unity in your relationships and cultivate a habit of gratitude. In every situation, remember that Christ’s peace is greater than any storm you face.
Call to Action:
Commit today to allow Christ’s peace to guide your life. Take steps to restore broken relationships, spend time thanking God for His blessings, and trust Him in every trial.
Invitation to Faith:
If you have never experienced the peace of Christ, know that it begins with a relationship with Him. Jesus died for your sins and rose again to give you eternal life and peace with God.
Pray with me:
"Lord Jesus, I surrender my heart to You. I ask for Your peace to rule in my life. Forgive my sins and make me new. I trust You as my Saviour and Lord. Amen."
