Bible Study

The Gift of Eternal Life Berean Bible Study Course

PART III--The Way Of Serving God In Christ Jesus

A. Lesson 13--We Serve By Worshipping

3. READ: COLOSSIANS 3:15-17

a. What should rule in our hearts?

Answer: The peace of Christ should rule in a Christian's heart. All the members of the one body, Christ's church, were called to peace, (verse 15).

MORE INFORMATION AND/OR OTHER SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

• This peace of Christ is to "rule" in our heart. The word "rule" literally means, "to function like an umpire." The "peace of Christ" becomes like an umpire, or an arbitrator, deciding all matters in the hearts of believers. So, this peace of Christ--the attitude of peace that Christ alone gives (in place of the attitude of bitterness and quarrelsomeness) is at work, "umpiring" in all human relationships--with other believers, with those in the world and within ourselves. It rules our lives. It provides direction and control in all situations:

John 14:27: [Jesus said,] "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Romans 14:19: "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification."

1 Timothy 2:1-4: "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, Who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the Truth."

• To NOT let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts is to hinder God's plan of salvation for those still in the world of sin, and will surely put in danger our own salvation:

Ephesians 4:31: "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

James 1:21: "Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the Word planted in you, which can save you."