Rather, “in Christ Jesus,” meaning either, the peace of God keeps the believer in union with Christ; or, those who are “in Christ Jesus” will be guarded by the peace of God. For Paul’s usage of the expression “in Christ” compare Phil. 1:1; 2:1; see on Rom. 8:1.

Gr. noēmata, “thoughts,” “purposes,” such as proceed from the heart.

 The NT uses the word “heart” to describe the center of thought, desire, feeling, and passion (see on Matt. 5:8, 28; 12:34; Rom. 1:21).

Rather, “shall guard.” God’s peace, like a sentinel, patrols before the heart and mind to guard the affections and thoughts from anxiety.

Gr. nous, capable of several shades of meaning:

 (1) “comprehensive faculty,” “understanding,” “mind”;

 (2) “reason”;

 (3) “power of judgment”;

 (4) “mode of thinking,” hence, “thoughts,” “feelings.” In the NT nous occurs 24 times, and is translated “mind” 17 times, and “understanding” 7 times. Here, Paul’s meaning may be either

 (1) the peace of God surpasses every human reason in its ability to overcome anxiety; or

 (2) God’s peace surpasses our highest possible imaginations.

 The second meaning seems the more likely, since it accords with Paul’s habit of being caught up with the glory of his topic and of using superlatives in an attempt to express what is beyond human expression (cf. Eph. 3:20). None but those who know this peace by experience can have satisfactory insight into its meaning.

Gr. huperechō, “to excel,” “to be superior,” “to surpass.”

 Doubtless meaning the peace that comes from God, or the peace that God bestows. This is not the same as having peace with God (Rom. 5:1), but results from enjoying that experience. Paul makes clear that such peace will be given him who lives a prayer-filled life (Phil. 4:6). It may not be possible for the Christian always to be at peace with all men (Heb. 12:14; see on Rom. 12:18), but failure to achieve that condition need not interfere with his receiving the peace of God in his heart. Such peace is grounded on faith in God and a personal knowledge of His power and care. It flows from a sense of His abiding presence, and produces childlike confidence and trustful love. See on John 14:27; Rom. 1:7; 5:1; Col. 3:15; 2 Thess. 3:16.