Finding True Joy in Christ's Birth and Promises
Summary
In the sermon titled "JOY COME" from the "Christmas Come Series" at Eagle Life Church on December 10, 2023, the pastor explores the multifaceted concept of joy in the context of the Christmas story and Christian faith. The sermon delves into the transformative power of God's joy, the fulfillment of prophecies, and the deep spiritual significance of joy that transcends temporary happiness.
The pastor begins by referencing Jude 1:24, emphasizing God's ability to keep believers from stumbling and to present them blameless before His glory. This divine promise is a source of great joy, offering salvation and cleansing to those who feel empty or unworthy. The pastor then addresses the contemporary worldview of indifference, which leads to a distorted perception of good and evil and a lack of purpose. In contrast, the pastor encourages finding joy in a relationship with Jesus, which brings strength and perseverance even in harsh realities.
The sermon also highlights the importance of rejoicing in sufferings, as exemplified by Peter, and the complete joy that awaits believers in Christ's presence. The pastor invites those who do not know God to receive the joy of salvation and encourages believers to rediscover joy amidst life's challenges.
The joy of Christmas is connected to the birth of Jesus, with the pastor recounting the use of swaddling cloths from the Passover Lambs to wrap baby Jesus and the angelic announcement to the shepherds. The pastor prays for the congregation to understand the richness of this joy, which was foretold by prophecies such as Psalm 98.
The pastor discusses the Shepherd's candle on the Christmas wreath, representing joy, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus' birth. The joy of salvation fulfilled in Christ is presented as a joy for all followers of Jesus, with the pastor citing Luke 2:8 and the birth of Jesus in a stable.
True joy, according to the pastor, is found in having one's name written in the Lamb's Book of Life, rather than in temporary successes. The pastor uses the example of Peter to illustrate that despite failures, Jesus offers a new identity and joy in sharing in His sufferings.
The sermon also explores the prophecies of Zechariah about a humble king and the anticipation of the coming joy of salvation. The pastor compares this to the excitement of returning home for Christmas and asserts that hope in God's promise is not empty but a confident expectation.
The significance of John the Baptist and the events surrounding Jesus' birth are highlighted, with the pastor emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise to bring salvation to all nations. Psalm 98 is discussed as a praise song that celebrates God's past deeds and prophesies future salvation.
The pastor assures the congregation of the reliability of the biblical record and God's fulfillment of prophecies, with between 200 and 450 Old Testament prophecies about a coming king fulfilled during Jesus' ministry. The immediate fulfillment of joy surrounding Jesus' birth is also discussed, including the miraculous conception and Mary's visit to Elizabeth.
The pastor asks the congregation to consider what Christmas joy means to them, emphasizing that true joy transcends temporary happiness and is rooted in the promise of God fulfilled in Jesus. The sermon series "Christmas come" began with a focus on hope and testimonies of God's transformative power.
The historical context of the Israelites' captivity and the messages of hope from prophets like Isaiah and Zechariah are discussed. Despite captivity, the people held onto the promise of returning to Zion and spreading the good news.
The pastor compares finding a physical oasis during a family outing to the spiritual oasis found in Jesus Christ. They encourage the audience to be evangelists for the joy and hope found in Christ, contrasting this with the despair of atheism.
The encounter between Mary and Elizabeth in Luke 1:39 is used to emphasize the significance of life in the womb and the role of John the Baptist as a messenger of the coming Lord.
Lastly, the pastor uses the analogy of a sailboat to illustrate how Christians can be filled with God's joy, which enables them to overcome challenges and find fulfillment. The pastor reminds the congregation that true joy comes from having their names written in heaven, not just from earthly victories.
Key Takeaways:
- The joy of the Lord is a transformative power that offers salvation and cleansing, providing a stark contrast to the emptiness and moral confusion prevalent in a worldview of indifference. This joy is not dependent on circumstances but is a divine gift that fills believers with strength and perseverance. [01:28:12]
- True joy is found in the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the birth of Jesus Christ. The prophecies of the Old Testament, such as those in Psalm 98, foretold the coming of a savior, and their fulfillment brings a deep and lasting joy that transcends the temporary pleasures of the world. [46:03]
- The joy of salvation is not limited to personal peace but is a communal and historical reality. The biblical narrative, from the prophecies of Isaiah and Zechariah to the events surrounding Jesus' birth, demonstrates God's faithfulness in bringing joy and salvation to His people across generations. [52:24]
- The spiritual oasis that Jesus provides is essential for a generation weary from hopelessness and indifference. As Emmanuel, God With Us, Jesus offers a joy and hope that can rejuvenate tired hearts and inspire believers to share the good news with others. [01:10:42]
- Joy in the Christian life is not merely a reaction to success or victory but is a state of being that comes from knowing one's eternal destiny is secure in Christ. This joy is a powerful force that enables believers to sail through life's challenges with confidence and purpose. [01:17:52]
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Jude 1:24-25: "Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen."
2. Luke 2:8-11: "And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'"
3. Psalm 98:1-4: "Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made known his salvation; he has revealed his righteousness in the sight of the nations. He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!"
### Observation Questions
1. According to Jude 1:24-25, what is God able to do for believers? How does this relate to the concept of joy? [01:28:12]
2. In Luke 2:8-11, what message did the angel bring to the shepherds, and how did it relate to joy? [46:03]
3. Psalm 98:1-4 speaks of singing a new song to the Lord. What reasons are given for this joyful singing? [48:41]
4. How does the pastor describe the difference between temporary happiness and eternal joy in the sermon? [40:32]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean for God to keep believers from stumbling and present them blameless with great joy, as mentioned in Jude 1:24-25? How does this promise impact a believer's sense of joy? [01:28:12]
2. The angel's announcement to the shepherds in Luke 2:8-11 was described as "good news of great joy." Why is the birth of Jesus considered such a significant source of joy for all people? [46:03]
3. Psalm 98 connects joy with the salvation and righteousness of God. How does understanding God's salvation lead to a deeper, more lasting joy compared to temporary pleasures? [48:41]
4. The pastor mentioned that true joy is found in having one's name written in the Lamb's Book of Life rather than in temporary successes. How does this perspective change the way believers view their circumstances and achievements? [01:20:12]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced temporary happiness. How did it compare to the lasting joy described in the sermon? What steps can you take to seek more of this lasting joy in your daily life? [40:32]
2. The pastor spoke about the joy of salvation being a communal and historical reality. How can you share this joy with others in your community, especially during the Christmas season? [52:24]
3. The sermon highlighted the importance of rejoicing in sufferings, as exemplified by Peter. How can you find joy in your current challenges or sufferings? What practical steps can you take to shift your focus from your circumstances to God's promises? [01:24:28]
4. The pastor used the analogy of a sailboat to describe how Christians can be filled with God's joy. What are some "sails" you can raise in your life to catch the wind of God's joy? How can you ensure that your joy remains full even in difficult times? [01:17:52]
5. The encounter between Mary and Elizabeth in Luke 1:39-45 emphasizes the significance of life in the womb and the role of John the Baptist. How does this story inspire you to recognize and celebrate the joy of new life and God's promises in your own life? [01:02:49]
6. The pastor encouraged the congregation to be evangelists for the joy and hope found in Christ. Who in your life needs to hear about this joy and hope? What specific actions can you take this week to share the good news with them? [01:12:20]
7. Reflect on the historical context of the Israelites' captivity and their hope for returning to Zion. How does this story of hope and joy amidst despair encourage you in your own faith journey? What promises of God are you holding onto during challenging times? [52:24]
Devotional
Day 1: Joy Beyond Circumstances
Joy is not found in the ebb and flow of life's situations but in the steadfast promise of God's salvation. This divine joy is a fortress against the chaos of the world, offering a peace that surpasses all understanding. It is a gift that empowers believers to stand firm, regardless of the trials they may face. [01:28:12]
James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."
Reflection: How can you embrace trials as opportunities for joy, knowing they are developing perseverance in your faith?
Day 2: Prophecy Fulfilled, Joy Unveiled
The birth of Jesus is the culmination of ancient promises, revealing a joy that is both historical and personal. This joy is not fleeting but is anchored in the reality of prophecy fulfilled, offering a profound sense of connection to God's eternal plan. It is a joy that outlasts the momentary pleasures of life. [46:03]
Isaiah 55:12 - "You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."
Reflection: In what ways does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' birth deepen your understanding and experience of joy?
Day 3: Communal Joy in God's Faithfulness
The joy of salvation is a shared experience, woven through the fabric of history and community. It is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His people, a joy that transcends individual stories and unites believers in a common narrative of redemption. [52:24]
Zephaniah 3:17 - "The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."
Reflection: How does recognizing the communal aspect of joy in salvation change the way you interact with fellow believers and the world?
Day 4: Oasis of Joy in a Weary World
In a world burdened by despair and indifference, the joy found in Christ is a refreshing oasis for the soul. This joy is not a temporary escape but a transformative presence that renews and empowers believers to become beacons of hope and evangelists of the good news. [01:10:42]
Habakkuk 3:17-18 - "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."
Reflection: Can you identify areas in your life where you need the rejuvenating joy of Christ? How can you seek this joy and share it with others?
Day 5: Eternal Joy in Our Heavenly Citizenship
True joy is not a response to earthly achievements but a celebration of our heavenly citizenship. It is a joy that comes from knowing our names are written in the Book of Life, a joy that equips us to navigate life's storms with confidence and purpose. [01:17:52]
Philippians 3:20-21 - "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body."
Reflection: What does it mean to you to have your name written in heaven, and how does this assurance shape your daily life and perspective?
Quotes
"Our joy is not in giving away gingerbread houses; our joy is because our names are written in heaven. Your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life, and if it isn't, then you will never find joy." [01:21:34] (Download)
"Peter knew what it meant to get thrown around in life... he's the one who got out of the boat to walk on the water in the storm and then took his eyes off Jesus and fell into the water, and Jesus said, 'Oh you of little faith.'" [01:23:37] (Download)
"Jesus makes this claim about himself: 'These things I have spoken to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be full.' There's a holy transfer that happens, and if you can get your mind around this, then you understand God's Plan of Salvation because God adds his joy to our life and then our joy is full." [01:17:03] (Download)
"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy - there it is again, good news of great joy for all the people." [01:28:12] (Download)
"In the midst of a frozen generation, a people who have tired and weary hearts, we are the people who have a fire pit and hot cocoa and some chairs for a struggling world to rest at, and they can find joy." [01:12:20] (Download)
"God has given you a sail and God is blowing the wind of his Joy at you and you put up your sail and you receive his joy and now your ship is sailing, now your joy is full." [01:18:47] (Download)
"There is something supernaturally spiritual about a people who know their Savior and can rejoice in sufferings and rejoice when the glory is revealed. It is a supernatural thing that you can experience." [01:24:28] (Download)
"We have good reason to build our faith on this rock, as the biblical record is sound; what God promises, He fulfills. We don't just look at this as an empty promise or as wishful thinking." [01:00:37] (Download)
"The Virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and you shall call his name Emmanuel, which means God with us. This prophecy, fulfilled in Jesus' birth, is evidence that we can trust what He says." [01:02:05] (Download)
"The joy of our Salvation... is good news of great joy for all the world... you would flood our hearts with the joy of heaven and lead us into a celebratory future where the circumstances of life don't weigh us down." [46:48] (Download)
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