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Anchored in Jesus: Living in His Peace

Alex Hogendoorn – October 5, 2025

Tagline

Christ absorbed our hostility in his own body to make us holy, blameless, and beyond reproach—so we can live in his peace.

Sermon Summary

This message opened with the image of audio feedback—how one sharp frequency, when caught in a loop, grows louder and more painful until the whole system is overwhelmed. In the same way, hostility in our world grows through cycles of mistrust, fear, accusation, and resentment—what Paul calls alienation and hostility in mind. But Jesus breaks the loop. In his body of flesh, he absorbed all our sin and violence and made peace by the cross. This is not abstract theology—it’s deeply personal. Paul says, “and you,” reminding us that Christ reconciled each of us individually, drawing us to himself to speak a new word over us: “You are holy. You are blameless. You are beyond reproach.”

Rather than defend ourselves or prove our worth, we can live in peace, knowing Christ has already spoken for us. We’re safe in his arms. The sermon invited us to dwell on those three identity words—not as pressure, but as peace. When we remember who we are in Christ, we become stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel. In a world of noisy accusation, Jesus’ voice says, “I got you.” And that truth changes how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we share the gospel with peace.

Group Discussion Guide

Icebreaker Question (pick one):

  • Playful: What’s a sound you absolutely cannot stand—like nails on a chalkboard or loud chewing?

  • Meaningful: Have you ever felt the need to defend yourself—only to realize later you didn’t have to?

Opening Prayer

Ask the Spirit to speak through the word and to lead your time together.

Scripture Reading

Read Colossians 1:13–14 and 1:21–23 aloud as a group.

Main Discussion Questions

God Revealed

What does this passage show us about how God deals with hostility, sin, and separation? How do you see his heart through the cross of Christ?

Humanity Mirrored

Paul says we were once alienated and hostile in mind. Where do you see these patterns still showing up in your life, your relationships, or our world?

Gospel-Centered Vision

This passage says Christ reconciled us “in his body of flesh.” Why does it matter that Jesus really suffered and died physically—and how does that anchor our hope?

Transformed Living

Paul uses three words to describe what Jesus has made us: holy, blameless, and beyond reproach. Which of these is hardest for you to accept personally—and how might it reshape the way you live?

Sharing and Witness

God calls us all to be part of his kingdom work. Consider where God is using you. How can we pray for each other in the mission God has called us to?

For Further Study

  1. Ephesians 2:11–22 – Christ breaks down the wall of hostility between people and unites us in one body.
  2. Romans 5:1–11 – We have peace with God through Jesus, who died for us while we were still sinners.
  3. 2 Corinthians 5:16–21 – God reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
  4. Philippians 4:4–7 – The peace of God guards our hearts when we turn to him in prayer.
  5. Isaiah 53:4–6 – The punishment that brought us peace was on him.
  6. Hebrews 2:14–18 – Jesus shared in our humanity to destroy death and be a merciful high priest.
  7. John 14:27 – Jesus gives peace not as the world gives—do not be afraid.
  8. Colossians 3:12–15 – As God’s holy people, we are called to forgive and let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.
  9. 1 Peter 2:24 – Jesus bore our sins in his body on the tree so we could live to righteousness.
  10. Psalm 85:8–10 – God speaks peace to his people, and steadfast love and faithfulness meet.

 

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