The Distinctions of Discipleship (Sermon 5)

The Distinction of Joy

Romans 12:12 ESV

12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Introduction:

Paul writes this with the intent of helping his readers recognize what a Christian looks like and how the Christian functions in life. Specifically in this Scripture he mentions rejoicing on the heels of an edit to serve the Lord.

I want to help you to see that, today. The disciple lives and serves with Joy.

Joy - Closely related to gladness and happiness, although joy is more a state of being than an emotion; a result of choice. One of the fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22–23). Having joy is part of the experience of being a Christian.

Biblical Relevance

In the Old Testament, joy is closely related to victory over one’s enemies. For example, in 1 Sam 18:6 when David returned from killing the Philistine, he was met with joy and dancing. It is also associated with religious acts and feasts, including sacrifices in Psa 27:6 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread (2 Chr 30; Ezra 6).

“Joy” also occurs frequently in songs of praise, most frequently in the book of Psalms (1 Chr 16; Pss 20; 33; 47). The prophets speak of joy, both its being taken away on account of exile (Ezek 24:25; Joel 1:12) and of the joy that will return when the people are restored (Isa 35:10; Jer 31:13).

In the New Testament, “joy” is still used for victory, as shown by the disciples returning with joy since even the evil spirits listened to them (Luke 10:17).

However, the victory focuses more on salvation (Luke 15:7)

Luke 15:7 ESV

7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

Transition: Romans 12:12 gives you and me an opportunity to embrace joy as a disciple.

Live with expectation Romans 12:12a

Romans 12:12a ESV

12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Hope - means to have expectation

Live with Endurance Romans 12:12b

Romans 12:12b ESV

12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

There are some tribulations we cannot avoid but we can endure.

psalm 105.6

John 16:33

Jame1.1

ILLUS: Little girl asked her mother, “How does one overcome a broken heart?” The mother replied, “With time”

Transition: It is imperative that we trust that with time and Jesus we can overcome and endure anything.

Application:

Live in Prayer Romans 12:12c

Romans 12:12c ESV

12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

The joy of the disciple is exhibited through his prayer life.

- He does not voice his frustration on Facebook, snap chat, twitter

- The Christian prays constantly

- 1 Thess 5.17

1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV

17 pray without ceasing,