Peace Be with You

John 20:19, 21 and 26

After the crucifixion, the disciples of the Lord Jesus likely experienced a range of emotions. Heartache, confusion, fear, anxiety, as well as many others. One thing that they were probably not feeling was peace. In many ways, their whole world was thrown into confusion. They had followed Jesus closely for three years, and now he was gone. During the 40 days that Jesus gave proof of his resurrection, one thing he did was make sure to remind them of the peace that could be found only in him.

The first example is found in John 20:19. The disciples had gathered in a secure location due to fear of the Jews in Jerusalem. It was the evening of the first day of the Jewish week, which we understand to be Sunday. Of course, they had good reason to be afraid, considering what had just happened on Friday to Jesus. Furthermore, Jesus had warned them that they should expect to suffer, too (see John 15:20). But then Jesus suddenly appeared and offered the perfect word they needed to hear. Peace. This word meant more than a general greeting, as noted in him repeating it in verse 21.

“The words “peace be with you” now have new meaning because Christ has made peace by the blood of His cross. Those who are justified by faith have peace with God.”[1] 

The second example occurs a week later, as recorded in John 20:26. The setting is similar, as would have been the disciples’ general feelings. And just as Jesus appeared to the disciples before, so he manifested himself to them again. Once again, Jesus speaks a word to them that they needed to hear. Peace. Jesus is repeating a promise that he had given them in John 14:27. Peace for the disciples, then and now, is always found in the Lord Jesus.

““Peace be with you” is a traditional Hebrew greeting that is still used in Israel today. For Jesus, this was more than a greeting. He was encouraging the disciples to appreciate the “peace” He had promised.”[2]

Like the disciples, we experience a range of emotions each day. While these emotions vary, one thing that we can be certain of is the peace that the Lord Jesus gives us. We need to daily remember that peace is first found in being reconciled with God (Romans 5:1). Next, we have the internal peace of God as a result of this (Philippians 4:7). Finally, we have peace knowing that the Lord will fulfill all the promises related to the future for us.

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (John 14:27 NASB 95)

Blessings,

Pastor Steven

[1] Believer’s Bible Commentary, pg. 1538.

[2] J. Carl Laney. Moody Gospel Commentary - John, pg. 365.