What did Jesus say he would leave with the disciples?

In the Gospel of John, specifically John 14:27, Jesus makes a significant promise to his disciples, leaving them a gift that many cherish: peace. This isn't just any sort of run-of-the-mill tranquility; it's a divine peace that transcends the chaos of everyday life. One fascinating detail about this verse is that it follows Jesus' reassurance to his disciples that he wouldn’t leave them alone; he would send the Holy Spirit after his departure. So this peace is deeply connected to the comfort and guidance that believers are meant to experience from the Spirit.

In a world riddled with turbulence and conflict, it's easy to see why this promise is powerful. Furthermore, if we dive a bit deeper into the Hebrew concept of peace, known as "Shalom," it encompasses complete well-being, harmony, and wholeness. So, this aspect of peace that Jesus promises isn't merely the absence of strife but a fullness of being. It's soul-deep and relates closely to personal relationships with others and God.

Interestingly, the word "peace" appears frequently throughout the scripture. For instance, Psalm 29:11 states that "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace," suggesting that peace is not just an isolated token, but part of a broader experience of strength and blessing. The echo of peace, from the Old Testament to the New, paints a vivid picture of its importance within spiritual life. So, when Jesus tells his disciples that he leaves them peace, it implies an invitation to a deeper, enduring relationship filled with hope and assurance. Now, think of it—this was delivered on the very brink of upheaval! What a remarkable sentiment!