Celebrating the Joy of Salvation This Christmas
Summary
Merry Christmas, Liberty family! Today, we gather to celebrate the joy of the season and the profound message of "Joy to the World," inspired by Psalm 98. This carol, penned by Isaac Watts in 1719, invites us to reflect on the joy that comes with the arrival of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Watts, known as the father of hymns, introduced a new way of worship through hymns, which were initially met with resistance. Yet, "Joy to the World" has endured for over 300 years, reminding us of the joy and salvation brought by Christ.
Psalm 98 calls us to sing a new song to the Lord, celebrating His wonders and the salvation He offers. This joy is not just for us but for all creation, as the psalmist describes the earth, rivers, and mountains joining in praise. The carol echoes this sentiment, urging us to prepare our hearts to receive our King and to let heaven and nature sing. As we sing these carols, we are reminded of the power of music to draw us closer to God, whether through new songs or old hymns that take on fresh meaning in our lives.
The message of Christmas is one of salvation and hope. Jesus came to live a perfect life, die for our sins, and offer us His righteousness. This gift of salvation is not something we can earn; it is a gift from God. As we partake in communion, we remember the sacrifice of Christ and the joy of our salvation. The first coming of Jesus brought salvation, and His second coming will bring judgment and the fulfillment of His promises.
As we prepare for Christmas Eve services, let us invite others to experience this joy and salvation. The joy of seeing lives transformed by the gospel is unparalleled. Let us be intentional in sharing this joy with others, knowing that our efforts can lead to eternal impact. As we celebrate, may we remember that true joy is found in putting Jesus first, others second, and ourselves last.
Key Takeaways:
- The Power of New Songs: Psalm 98 encourages us to sing a new song to the Lord, celebrating His wonders and salvation. New songs, like old hymns, can draw us closer to God and take on fresh meaning in our lives, reminding us of His goodness and faithfulness. [42:54]
- Joy in Salvation: Christmas is a celebration of salvation, as Jesus came to live a perfect life, die for our sins, and offer us His righteousness. This gift of salvation is a reason for great joy, as it is not something we can earn but a gift from God. [55:05]
- The Anticipation of Christ's Return: The first coming of Jesus brought salvation, and His second coming will bring judgment and the fulfillment of His promises. As we celebrate Christmas, we also look forward to His return, when every wrong will be made right. [01:04:01]
- The Joy of Sharing the Gospel: There is no greater joy than seeing lives transformed by the gospel. As we invite others to Christmas services, we have the opportunity to share this joy and make an eternal impact in the lives of those around us. [46:35]
- True Joy in Surrender: Real joy is found in surrendering everything to Jesus Christ as Lord. As we reflect on our lives, let us ensure that we have room for Jesus in every aspect, from our schedules to our relationships and finances. [01:07:02]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[36:42] - Introduction to "Joy to the World"
[37:42] - The History of Hymns
[38:51] - Embracing New Music
[40:14] - The Song of the King
[42:54] - Singing a New Song
[44:12] - The Power of Old Songs
[45:16] - Joy in Heaven
[46:35] - Sharing the Gospel
[47:39] - Praise and Worship
[49:40] - The Heart of Worship
[50:46] - Love and Worship
[52:01] - The Strength of the King
[53:30] - God's Control and Power
[55:05] - The Salvation of the King
[56:18] - Mary's Song and Joy
[57:10] - True Joy and Impact
[58:21] - Christmas Communion
[59:37] - The Second Coming of the King
[01:00:24] - Jesus, King of Kings
[01:01:28] - Jesus' Miracles and Authority
[01:02:13] - The Curse and Redemption
[01:03:08] - Communion and Reflection
[01:04:52] - The Promise of His Return
[01:05:48] - Proclaiming the Lord's Death
[01:07:02] - Room for Jesus
[01:08:05] - Prayer and Invitation
[01:09:18] - Christmas Communion Instructions
[01:11:45] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Psalm 98
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Observation Questions:
1. What is the significance of Psalm 98 in the context of the sermon, and how does it relate to the carol "Joy to the World"? [40:14]
2. How did Isaac Watts' introduction of hymns, including "Joy to the World," change the way worship was conducted in British churches? [37:42]
3. According to the sermon, what role does music play in drawing us closer to God, and how can both new and old songs take on fresh meaning in our lives? [42:54]
4. What examples from the sermon illustrate the joy of sharing the gospel and seeing lives transformed? [46:35]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon interpret the phrase "sing a new song" from Psalm 98, and what does it suggest about the nature of worship? [42:54]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the joy of salvation is a gift from God, and how does this understanding impact the way we celebrate Christmas? [55:05]
3. How does the anticipation of Christ's return, as discussed in the sermon, influence the way believers live their lives today? [59:37]
4. What does the sermon imply about the importance of making room for Jesus in every aspect of our lives, and how is this connected to experiencing true joy? [01:07:02]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on the idea of singing a new song to the Lord. Is there a particular song or hymn that has taken on new meaning for you recently? How did it impact your relationship with God? [42:54]
2. The sermon emphasizes the joy of salvation as a gift. How can you remind yourself of this gift daily, especially during the Christmas season? [55:05]
3. Consider the anticipation of Christ's return. How does this belief shape your priorities and decisions in your daily life? [59:37]
4. The sermon encourages sharing the gospel with others. Who in your life could you invite to a church service or share your faith with this Christmas season? What steps will you take to do so? [46:35]
5. Reflect on the concept of true joy being found in putting Jesus first, others second, and yourself last. How can you apply this principle in your relationships and daily interactions? [01:07:02]
6. The sermon challenges us to make room for Jesus in our schedules, relationships, and finances. What specific changes can you make to ensure Jesus is at the center of these areas in your life? [01:07:02]
7. As you prepare for Christmas, how can you intentionally create moments of worship and reflection to focus on the true meaning of the season? [40:14]
Devotional
Day 1: The Transformative Power of New Songs
The call to sing a new song to the Lord, as inspired by Psalm 98, is a profound invitation to embrace the transformative power of music in our spiritual lives. New songs, much like the old hymns, have the ability to draw us closer to God, offering fresh perspectives and renewed meanings. This is not merely about the novelty of the music but about the heart's posture in worship. As we engage with these songs, we are reminded of God's wonders and His enduring faithfulness. The act of singing becomes a spiritual exercise, allowing us to express our gratitude and awe for the salvation He offers. [42:54]
Psalm 40:3 (ESV): "He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord."
Reflection: What new song or form of worship can you incorporate into your daily routine to draw closer to God and reflect on His goodness?
Day 2: Joy in the Gift of Salvation
Christmas is a celebration of the profound gift of salvation brought to us through Jesus Christ. His life, death, and resurrection offer us righteousness that we could never earn on our own. This gift is a source of immense joy, as it signifies God's love and grace towards humanity. The realization that salvation is a gift, not a reward for our deeds, should fill our hearts with gratitude and joy. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of Christ's sacrifice and the joy of our salvation, encouraging us to live in the light of this truth daily. [55:05]
Titus 3:5-7 (ESV): "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life."
Reflection: How can you express your gratitude for the gift of salvation in your daily interactions and decisions today?
Day 3: Anticipating Christ's Return
The first coming of Jesus brought salvation, and His second coming will bring the fulfillment of His promises and judgment. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded not only of His birth but also of the hope and anticipation of His return. This anticipation should inspire us to live lives that reflect His teachings and prepare us for the day when every wrong will be made right. The promise of His return is a source of hope and encouragement, urging us to remain steadfast in our faith and to share this hope with others. [01:04:01]
2 Peter 3:10-13 (ESV): "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God."
Reflection: In what ways can you prepare your heart and life for the return of Christ, and how can this anticipation influence your daily actions?
Day 4: The Joy of Sharing the Gospel
There is unparalleled joy in witnessing lives transformed by the gospel. As we invite others to experience the joy and salvation of Christmas, we have the opportunity to make an eternal impact. Sharing the gospel is not just about words but about living a life that reflects Christ's love and grace. This season, let us be intentional in reaching out to others, inviting them to experience the joy of knowing Christ. Our efforts, no matter how small, can lead to significant changes in the lives of those around us. [46:35]
1 Thessalonians 2:8 (ESV): "So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us."
Reflection: Who in your life can you reach out to this week to share the joy of the gospel, and what practical steps can you take to do so?
Day 5: True Joy in Surrender
True joy is found in surrendering every aspect of our lives to Jesus Christ as Lord. This means making room for Him in our schedules, relationships, and finances, ensuring that He is at the center of all we do. Surrender is not about losing control but about trusting God with every part of our lives. As we reflect on our priorities, let us ensure that we are putting Jesus first, others second, and ourselves last. This order brings a deep and abiding joy that transcends circumstances and aligns us with God's will. [01:07:02]
Galatians 2:20 (ESV): "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Quotes
The psalmist tells us to sing a new song, not just here, but in Psalm 33 .3, Psalm 40, verse 3, 96 .1, 98 .1, Psalm 144 .9, Psalm 149 .1. He tells us over and over again, sing a new song. Now, that word in the Hebrew, new, everybody say new, it means fresh. It means fresh. [00:42:54] (26 seconds)
And I contend you can even sing an old song with a fresh new. In fact, I think you would agree with me, if you have walked with God for any amount of time, you can go through some trials in life, and an old song takes on a whole new meaning. [00:43:20] (20 seconds)
Jesus is the friend of sinners. He came to seek and save. The lost. And so, I want you to get this. Jesus came to live a perfect life that I could not live. To die on the cross and pay for my sin. He took upon himself. He who knew no sin became sin for me. And then the Bible says he imputed. [00:54:43] (22 seconds)
And that's why he came. And that's what he is doing. Salvation. Salvation is a gift. You can't earn it. You can't save yourself. It's something he had to provide for us. And it says here he remembered his love and faithfulness to Israel. What did he say to Abraham and to the people of Israel? I'm going to bless you. And through you, all the nations of the world will be blessed. [00:55:14] (22 seconds)
Christmas means salvation has come. When we take the bread and we take the cup, it's a picture of salvation. It's his body, his blood that he willingly laid down for us that our sins could be forgiven. It's all about salvation. [00:58:48] (22 seconds)
The fourth and last thing I want you to see is this. The second coming of the king. Now, look at this. What the psalmist said in the last verse. Last verse, verse 9. For he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world righteously and the peoples fairly. [00:59:17] (19 seconds)
He's not just king of the Jews. He's king of kings. He's Lord of lords. He's going to rule. He's going to rule the world with truth and grace. And he's going to make the nations prove the glories of his righteousness and the wonders of his love. I'm just telling you, the same Jesus who was revealed, who was made known to us, is coming again. [01:00:41] (20 seconds)
And the world has no problem with a baby. But the world doesn't want a king. Everybody loves babies, right? But nobody wants somebody to take charge of their life. I'm just telling you, Jesus is the baby born in Bethlehem, but he's no ordinary child. [01:01:01] (19 seconds)
Look at what the songwriter said here. No more let sins and sorrows grow, nor thorns infest the ground. Where do these thorns come from? Where does sin and sorrow come from? It comes from the curse. He comes to make his blessings flow far as the curse is found. How far is the curse found? It's worldwide. [01:02:37] (24 seconds)
Now, as you go to take communion today, I want to remind you that his first coming was for salvation. That's what the bread. And the blood represents. But his second coming will be about judgment. He's going to make every wrong right. Everything that you've ever dealt with, it's going to be finally once and for all. [01:04:01] (29 seconds)
Do you have room for Jesus in your schedule, in your calendar? Do you have room for Jesus in your relationships? Do you have room for Jesus in your finances? Do you have room for Jesus in your life? In everything that you do, I want you to know real joy is only found when you surrender everything to Jesus Christ as Lord. Would you bow with me for prayer? [01:07:02] (26 seconds)
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