Overflowing Joy

Good Morning

Lets begin with Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, we pray for your Spirit to move. Work in this church and in this community to make Jesus known. Father there are many who are in need of salvation. I want to pray especially this week for the teaches of West Fork.

Jessica Minnier

Margaret Nash

Erika Nielsen

Jill Rowe

Jennifer Schmidt

Be with them, bless them, and work in their hearts and lives that they may come to know you. Be with us, your church as we try to be for the harvest for your glory and the spread of your fame.

Welcome to the gathering of First Grace Baptist Church. We are truly glad you are here. If you would turn to 2 Corinthians 8 that is where we will be this morning. If you don’t have a Bible, we have some out at our welcome desk, please take one, it is our gift to you.

If you are using one of our sermon notebooks, also found free at the desk.

Title: Overflowing Joy

Big Idea: Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

Our passage seems to come from out of left field. This is particularly true if you are not paying attention to the context in which it occurs. So, before we get to our passage I want to set it up with some background and recap.

At the beginning of the book of Acts, after Jesus ascends to sit at the right hand of the Father, the apostles are fasting and praying when the Holy Spirit came upon them and they became his witnesses first in Jerusalem, then Judea, and to the ends of the known world. In Jerusalem many believed in Jesus Christ, repenting and putting their hope in him as their only hope of salvation. However, this had some consequences.

How do you think the people who crucified Jesus, who regarded him as a charlatan and false prophet and a blasphemer, would react to a new group of people who called him Messiah, Lord and God? We know they began to persecute the church there, it is what first scattered them to the corners of the Roman Empire. What about those who stayed? Well, the persecution didn’t stop. Many were rejected by their friends and family, so widows wouldn’t have anyone to care for them. They were removed from their synagogues which was their primary source of connection to their communities. All of this, along with the economic penalty of being persona non-grata, meant they struggled to meaningfully participate in the economy of Jerusalem. To combat this, they put their resources together so that no one was left out in the cold or starved because they chose to follow Jesus. We read about this in Acts 2 when they held all things in common. Even in Acts 5 the deacons were formed because certain Hellenistic-jewish widows were being forgotten in the distribution.

Eventually, a part of Paul’s ministry became a collection he was gathering to support the church in Jerusalem. He mentions it here, and 1 Corinthians, in Galatians, and Romans. However, the collection in Achaia had hit a roadblock in Corinth. There were some false apostles defaming Paul’s character, calling him weak and feeble as an apostle. Additionally, they brought suspicion upon the collection, likely hoping to take advantage of it for their own gain. This didn’t mean the church in Corinth was any less generous then when they had pledged to help, but their hearts had closed (even if it is only a little). Now, however, with the return of Titus, Paul was confident their relationship could be restored. So after dealing with their relationship to him over the course of 7 chapters, he shifts to talking about the collection, specifically in our passage, the Macedonian participation in it. For some, the change in topics is jarring, but the reality is that it is continuing a part of the ongoing conversation he has been having with the churches in Achaia.

2 Corinthians 8:1–15 (ESV) 1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

Lets Pray

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

It was my original intention to cover the whole chapter, but this one hit me really hard this week. I could not get it out of my head that I have been missing joy. I have been convicted that I too often allow my circumstances to dictate my joy. This isn’t how it ought to be. The Macedonian church shows us this. The admission that I have a problem when it comes to joy, was an important step for me, I think. From that point I can begin to move forward. Lets read our passage again:

2 Corinthians 8:1–15 (ESV) 1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

In verse 1, Paul begins to communicate one of the unexpected blessings he has witnessed during his time in Macedonia. He speaks of the grace of God which was given among the churches. This was a way to speak of the collection he was gathering for Jerusalem. Yet, it was clearly an act of God’s grace because in a severe test of affliction, the churches of Macedonia, our of their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty, have overflowed in a wealth of generosity. They weren’t asked, but they heard of the collection and begged to be able to participate in the relief of the saints in such a difficult state in Jerusalem. Yet, they gave themselves to the Lord first, and then to the apostles, one overflowed out of the other.

Paul was shocked that a group of churches, which he describes as being in a state of extreme poverty would give so sacrificially. When he says extreme, the word means “rock-bottom.” They were giving like the widow in Luke 21:1-4, which says:

Luke 21:1–4 (ESV)1 Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, 2 and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. 3 And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. 4 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”

It isn’t about how much was given, but on how sacrificial the gift. They, and the widow, didn’t give out of their abundance, but gave beyond it. Why? Because of joy.

In the Old Testament, when it speaks of giving to the Temple or even to give in support to the poor, it is proportional. This is where we get the concept about tithing, it is a proportional way to give, 10%. However, the New Testament does neither commands, nor does it praise proportional giving, but sacrificial giving. However, in this moment, I am less concerned about that than I am about the motivation which underlies it, abundant overflowing joy.

The Macedonian church was not an example to us because of its giving, but how it responded in their affliction and “rock-bottom poverty.” They were filled to overflowing with joy, it just so happened that it overflowed in this moment as a monetary gift. Where did this joy come from?

I think the key words on this are in verse 5, “they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.” This has been weighing heavily on my mind all week. What is the source of their joy? The Lord Jesus, obviously. Is this because they were saved by grace through faith? Yes, in part; though, I am growing more and more certain it is because they had made a habit of abiding in him. As a result, they were not concerned with their circumstances because they had made their home in Jesus, they had built a home with him on the rock that is their salvation and further obedience to him who saved them. They gave themselves to Jesus and this led to overflowing joy even in the midst of trial, in fact, the trials themselves become a confirmation and multiplier of their joy because they understand to whom they belong. To make the point further, Jesus tells us this in John 15: 1-11, this is an extended quote, so focus in on what Jesus says.

John 15:1–17 (ESV) 1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. 12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. 17 These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another. It begins with abiding in him. He is the vine and we are the branches. We cannot bear any fruit, much less the fruit of joy, if we are not attached to the vine. This begins with faith. You cannot abide in Jesus whom you have not first believed. From there we build upon our faith with discipline to continually abide in him. What does that mean?

Let me start with, I am learning and I think we will all be learning until he calls us home, or he returns in glory. I think it is essentially making our home with and in him. He is the rock on which we build our lives. If we build our lives on the non-sense of this world, it will be burned away through the refining fire of his judgment. However, if we make our home in him and pick up our cross and follow him, becoming imitators of God as beloved children and walking in love as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us. This is the path of joy. Making our home in Jesus is the source of joy and it is the birthplace of love.

The Macedonian church gave themselves first to the Lord, then overflowing with joy, they gave themselves, by the will of God to the Apostle and his team. We only really know of the sacrificial monetary gift, but this doesn’t mean that is all they did. In this moment in our text, Paul is pointing it out for a reason, but the giving is a symptom, not the cause.

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

As I said, this text has been sitting heavily with me all week. It is convicting. However, as I said it isn’t about money or giving. We could easily apply it that way, but I think that would be to miss the point.

Would you say you are overflowing with joy? Why do you think that is (or isn’t)? To be honest, I don’t think I am, or I wasn’t. To be sure, I think there is a baseline of joy that comes from our faith in Jesus and the hope in future resurrection, and by being filled with the Spirit. However, often it isn’t overflowing as it should, it isn’t motivating us to live earnestly to the glory of Christ, to love one another, toward fellowship in the Spirit, and the making of disciples among the nations because we are not first giving ourselves to the Lord. We are not abiding in him. This means, when the storms arise, like Peter, we are terrified by wind and the waves. We forget that by faith and his power we can walk on top of them, that by simple faith mountains will pick themselves up and cast themselves in the sea.

I must confess, joy has always been elusive for me. It is easy to look at my circumstances and think it is understandable, until you pay attention to Macedonia. Holy cow, they gave out of their poverty. They gave out of their affliction, and they begged for the privilege! What? This, goes to show us, joy was not, first and foremost for the Macedonians, but for those around them. God used it to bless the apostle, and the church at large.

So, what then? What do we do? How do we turn on the switch of joy? It is simple, if not easy. First and most importantly, focus your thoughts and prayers on abiding in Jesus. Then discipline your mind to rejoice in him. Philippians 4:4-13 tell us what we need to know. I read a piece of this to you last week, but I keep coming back to it.

Philippians 4:4–13 (ESV)4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. 10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Rejoice in the Lord! You may not feel it in the moment, but rejoice because you have been given everything in Christ Jesus. It was a free gift and you don’t have to earn it! Rejoice in the Lord always, Rejoice!

Second, in contrast, be anxious for nothing! Easier said than done. So what do we do if we are becoming anxious, how do we combat it?

Third, you combat anxiety by praying with thanksgiving! You may not understand what is happening, but you can be sure of this, God knows. You may be afflicted on all sides, but nothing can take you out of his hand. You are more than a conquerer through him who saved you. Thank him for the privilege of being able to walk through affliction the way he did. Maybe we find ourselves praying earnestly that our present cup be taken away, but nonetheless, not our will be done, but his. Then the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.

Fourth, control your thoughts. Our hearts are deceptive and wicked; on top of that we have an enemy who does not want us to walk in abundant joy, to be exuberant and happy in Jesus Christ. He will whisper lies to us, or even have us fixate only on the things which have made life difficult. What do we do? We tell our hearts what should be on our mind. We actively consider what is good, true, and beautiful. There will always be an unending stream of bad, false, and ugly; let us endeavor to consider to control what we think about. (I know this is not easy, and I often fail).

Fifth, put your faith in to practice. Do the things you know to do and you will grow in your ability to live faithfully in joy.

sixth, Learn contentment because Christ will make your path straight and by his strength you can endure anything faithfully in him.

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

In Conclusion

We see in our passage that the church in Macedonia was overflowing in joy which expressed itself in generosity. This was to such an extent that an Apostle was floored by it. They had first given themselves fully to the Lord, abiding fully in him, then from their abundance gave of themselves to the Apostle and his team. We can do the same thing. This starts with us abiding in Jesus Christ, first individually, then together as we give ourselves in love toward one another. It is our of our connection to Christ that joy will come and begin to overflow. It is not something we can manufacture or pretend. True joy will flow from him. So, our homework as we walk out of here is to begin to actively give ourselves over fully to Jesus.

Joy overflows when we abide in Christ, then by his will give ourselves in love to one another.

Lets Pray