Apr. 27, 2025

Pastor Dave's sermon begins at 20:29 min into the video. The music "Shout to The Lord", "Lamb of God - Merideth Andrews", "Living Hope",  and "How Great Is Our God" are licensed under CCLI Copyright #2723035 and Streaming Media #22024223 licenses.

Jesus Comes and Gives to His Disciples - Finding Peace and Purpose in the Risen Christ

Have you ever felt lost in life’s storms, wondering where God is? Step into the transformative journey of John 20, where the risen Jesus meets His disciples—and you—with peace, assurance, and a purpose that can change your everyday life. Let’s discover how His presence turns fear into courage and despair into hope. Pastor Dave’s sermon invites you to experience a spiritual transformation through the gifts Jesus offers after His resurrection: His presence, assurance, peace, purpose, and the Holy Spirit. These aren’t just ancient promises—they’re for you today, reshaping how you face life’s challenges. Imagine waking up each day knowing Jesus is with you, speaking peace over your worries, and giving you a mission to share His love—this message calls you to lean into His presence, find courage in His promises, and live with purpose, whether you’re at home, work, or in your community.

Pastor Dave’s Key Teachings:

Jesus Comes to You in Your Fear: In John 20:19, Jesus enters locked rooms and fearful hearts, proving His resurrection overcomes every barrier. When overwhelmed, trust that Jesus is near. Pause, pray, and find His presence in small moments. As Pastor Dave noted, “He makes His presence known to us… often in moments when we’re vulnerable.” Jesus offers courage when you feel alone.

 Jesus Assures You of His Faithfulness: By showing His wounds (John 20:20), Jesus confirms His identity and sacrifice. His resurrection validates every promise, including His intercession (Hebrews 7:25). Memorize promises like “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20) to anchor yourself in doubt. Jesus’ scars remind you of His presence and care.

 Jesus Speaks Peace Over Your Chaos: Jesus says, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19, 21, 26), offering deep well-being. When anxious, breathe deeply and repeat His words. Let His peace guide your reactions. As Pastor Dave explained, “Peace is a blessing of well-being.” Jesus’ peace steadies your heart, helping you respond with kindness.

 Jesus Sends You with Purpose: Jesus commissions His disciples (John 20:21) to share His message. Find small ways to share His love. Pastor Dave affirmed, “There’s no insignificant assignment in God’s kingdom.” Every act in His name matters, giving daily tasks eternal value.

 Jesus Empowers You with the Holy Spirit: Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit on His disciples (John 20:22), equipping them for their mission. Stay open to the Spirit’s nudges. Pastor Dave requested, “Be receptive to the Holy Spirit’s work.” Acting on these prompts can transform your day and others’ lives.

Scriptural Foundation: 

John 20:19-23 shows Jesus appearing to fearful disciples, offering peace, purpose, and the Holy Spirit, forming the heart of the sermon’s message about Christ’s transformative gifts. When fear locks you in, trust Jesus’ words, “Peace be with you,” and step out to share His love, empowered by the Spirit. This scripture reminds you that Jesus meets you in your struggles, equipping you to live boldly for Him.

Matthew 28:18-20, the Great Commission, promises Jesus’ presence “always, even until the end,” linking His assurance to the disciples’ mission to make disciples. Carry this promise into your daily tasks, knowing Jesus is with you as you share His love, whether at home or work. This verse encourages you to see every interaction as a chance to reflect Jesus, trusting He’s by your side.

Hebrews 7:25 assures us that Jesus “ever makes intercession for us,” providing constant care and advocacy before God. Pray with confidence, knowing Jesus is pleading your cause, especially in tough times. This truth gives you courage to face challenges, knowing you’re never alone in your struggles.

Acts 10:38 describes Jesus “going about doing good,” anointed by the Spirit, modeling the purpose He gives us. Follow Jesus’ example by doing good in small ways, like helping a coworker or volunteering. This verse simplifies your purpose: do good wherever you are, and you’re living out Christ’s mission.

Your Journey Forward:

Ready to live out this transformative message? Here’s how:

• Seek His Presence Daily: Start each morning with a simple prayer: “Jesus, make Your presence known to me today.” Look for Him in small moments—a kind gesture or a peaceful feeling.
• Anchor in His Promises: Write down Matthew 28:20 (“I am with you always”) and keep it where you’ll see it. When doubt creeps in, read it aloud to remind yourself of Jesus’ faithfulness.
• Choose Peace: When stress hits, pause and whisper, “Peace be with you.” Let Jesus’ words calm your heart before responding to challenges.
• Live Your Purpose: Commit to one act of kindness each day in Jesus’ name—maybe a text to encourage a friend or helping a stranger. No act is too small.
• Stay Open to the Spirit: Spend five minutes in quiet prayer each evening, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your next steps. Act on any nudges to serve or speak hope.

Closing Prayer and Reflection:

Father, I thank You for Your Word today. I thank You for the promises, the assurance in Your presence. Thank You, Lord, for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord, for the assignments. Thank You, Lord, for Your peace. Lord, we just give You all praise and glory. We worship our risen Savior. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As you step into this week, carry the truth that Jesus is with you, speaking peace and giving you purpose. Every step you take, every kind word you share, is part of His mission. Let His presence transform your fears into courage and your ordinary moments into extraordinary opportunities to reflect His love. Who will you share Jesus’ peace with today?