InstaStudy

Not As The World Giveth: A Study of Divine Peace and Provision

This Bible study explores the profound difference between the temporary, conditional offerings of the world and the eternal, unconditional gifts bestowed by the one true God, Jesus Christ. It delves into the nature of divine peace, love, and life, and how believers can receive and live in these superior blessings.

1. The World's Fleeting Gifts

1.1 Material Possessions and Earthly Security

Verses: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:15; 1 John 2:15-17
  • Worldly gifts are temporary and cannot satisfy the soul.
  • They are subject to loss and do not provide lasting security.
  • Our focus should be on eternal treasures, not earthly accumulation.

1.2 Superficial Peace

Verses: Jeremiah 6:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:3
  • The world offers peace based on the absence of conflict or favorable external circumstances.
  • This peace is easily disturbed and does not address inner turmoil.
  • It is a false sense of security that can quickly vanish.

1.3 Conditional Love and Acceptance

Verses: Proverbs 18:24; Luke 6:32
  • Worldly love often comes with strings attached and expectations.
  • Acceptance is frequently based on performance, appearance, or utility.
  • Such love can be withdrawn when conditions are not met or circumstances change.

2. The Divine Giver and His Unchanging Nature

2.1 The One True God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; James 1:17
  • There is only one God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
  • He is the ultimate source of every good and perfect gift.
  • His nature is unchanging, and His promises are steadfast.

2.2 Jesus Christ: God Manifest in Flesh

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • Jesus is the embodiment of the one God, fully divine and fully human.
  • He is the giver of eternal life, peace, and salvation.
  • All the fullness of the Godhead dwells in Him bodily.

2.3 The Holy Spirit: The Spirit of Christ

Verses: John 14:16-18; Romans 8:9-11; Acts 2:38
  • The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the one God, Jesus Christ, working in and through believers.
  • He empowers, comforts, guides, and teaches us.
  • He is the divine presence within us, connecting us to the Lord.

2.4 God's Unconditional Love and Grace

Verses: Romans 5:8; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 John 4:10
  • God's love for humanity is steadfast, eternal, and not based on our merit.
  • His grace is freely given, a gift of salvation not earned by works.
  • He loved us even when we were sinners, demonstrating His profound compassion.

3. The Superiority of God's Gifts

3.1 Enduring Peace

Verses: John 14:27; Philippians 4:7; Colossians 3:15
  • God's peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is an inner state of tranquility.
  • It transcends all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
  • This divine peace remains even amidst trials and tribulations.

3.2 Eternal Life and Spiritual Riches

Verses: John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Matthew 6:20
  • God offers life everlasting through faith in Jesus Christ.
  • His gifts are spiritual and eternal, far surpassing any earthly treasure.
  • We are encouraged to lay up treasures in heaven, where they are secure.

3.3 The Gift of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:13-14; Galatians 5:22-23
  • The Holy Spirit is a divine endowment, empowering believers for service and holy living.
  • He is the seal of our salvation and the guarantee of our inheritance.
  • He produces the fruit of righteousness within us, transforming our character.

4. Receiving and Living in God's Gifts

4.1 Repentance and Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • Repentance is a turning away from sin and a commitment to God.
  • Baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is essential for the remission of sins.
  • It symbolizes our burial with Christ and resurrection to new life.

4.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The Holy Spirit is received by faith, often with the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues.
  • He empowers believers for spiritual warfare and effective witness.
  • This divine indwelling enables us to live a life pleasing to God.

4.3 Walking in Obedience and Faith

Verses: John 14:15; Hebrews 11:6; James 2:17
  • We must live according to God's Word, demonstrating our love through obedience.
  • Faith is the foundation of our walk, believing in God's promises and power.
  • Obedience is not burdensome but a joyful response to His grace and love.

4.4 Sharing God's Gifts with Others

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; 1 Peter 4:10; Galatians 6:10
  • We are called to be channels of God's blessings, extending His peace and love to the world.
  • Our lives should reflect the divine gifts we have received, drawing others to Him.
  • Evangelism and acts of kindness are expressions of our gratitude and mission.