The Heart Of Christmas Brings Joy

Bible Passage: John 1:9–19, 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11

Summary: The coming of Christ, the true light, brings joy and salvation to those who believe, and it’s important to live in the light of His return, fostering joy in our present lives.

Application: The joy of Christ's presence can transform lives, especially during the challenging holiday season. It provides reassurance that despite difficulties, joy can be found in Christ, leading to hope and an expectation of His return.

Teaching: True joy is rooted in our relationship with Christ, who is both the light and hope of our lives. It also discusses how this joy can influence not only our personal lives but also our communal living during the Christmas season.

Point to Christ: Christ is the embodiment of joy as the light that has come into the world. His incarnation revealed God's glory and grace, and through Him, believers are assured of eternal joy and hope, which is the essence of Christmas.

Big Idea: When we embrace Christ, the true light of the world, we find a profound joy that strengthens our hearts and unify our community in anticipation of His glorious return.

1. The True Light Brings Joy

John 1:9-13

Jesus's arrival and reception: The historical context of Jesus coming into the world, noting the mixed reception he received (some accepted him, others did not).

Context: John's Gospel was written towards the end of the first century, a time when the early Christian community was grappling with its identity and its relationship to Judaism. The passage reflects the growing separation between Christianity and Judaism and the emphasis on Jesus as the central figure of salvation.

Enlightenment: The true light enlightens everyone, bringing clarity and understanding.

Acceptance: Those who receive and believe in the true light are given the power to become children of God.

Grace and Truth: The Word became flesh, full of grace and truth, providing joy through divine presence.

Witness: John testified to the true light, emphasizing its preeminence and the joy it brings.

2. Joy in Salvation

Destined for Salvation: Believers are destined for salvation through Jesus Christ, which is a source of joy.

Encouragement: Encouraging and building up one another brings joy to the community.

Faith and Love: Putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the hope of salvation, fosters joy.

Living with Christ: Whether awake or asleep, living with Christ is a joyful assurance.

3. Joy in God's Presence

Glory of God: Moses' desire to see God's glory reflects the joy of experiencing God's presence.

Goodness of God: God's goodness passing before Moses signifies the joy of knowing God's character.

Protection by God: Being sheltered by God in the cleft of the rock symbolizes the joy of divine protection.

Divine Favor: God's favor and mercy bring joy to those who seek Him.

4. Joy in Jesus Christ

Incarnation: The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us is a source of immense joy.

Grace and Truth: Jesus, full of grace and truth, brings joy through His teachings and actions.

Witness of Glory: Witnessing the glory of the incarnate Logos brings joy to believers.

Unique Mission: The unique mission of Jesus as God's messenger brings joy through His life and sacrifice.

Joy in Acceptance

Joy in Salvation (continual and ultimate)

Joy in God’s Presence

Joy in Jesus Christ (we don’t have to seek our joy, Joy seeks us out)

Illustration:

Recall a time when a group of friends decided to throw a surprise party for someone special. They met in hushed whispers, planned diligently, and looked out for one another, keeping the excitement alive as the big day approached. Just like that, we must prepare actively for Christ's return, encouraging each other and sharing in the joy of our faith, love, and hope—not reserving it just for festive moments, but in the everyday aspects of life.