Reasons for Rejoicing: A Symphony of Grace
Introduction:
The apostle Paul, even from a prison cell, penned words that resonate with joy and hope: "Rejoice in the Lord." This isn't a flippant command, but a profound invitation to experience the fullness of life found in Christ. Today, we will explore the reasons behind this rejoicing, reasons that should fill our hearts with unwavering gratitude and anticipation.
I. Rejoice IN the Lord: The Foundation of Our Joy
A. The Rejoicing is Due to the Relationship (Philippians 4:4):
Our joy isn't based on fleeting circumstances, but on the enduring relationship we have with the Lord. It’s not just happiness, but a deep, abiding joy that stems from being "in Christ."
B. In Christ: A Cascade of Blessings (Ephesians 1:3, 7; Galatians 3:26; 1 Peter 2:9):
Being "in Christ" unlocks a treasure trove of spiritual blessings:
• All spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3): Every good and perfect gift comes from above.
• Redemption and forgiveness (Ephesians 1:7): We are bought with a price, cleansed from our sins.
• Children of God (Galatians 3:26): We are adopted into His family, heirs to His kingdom.
• Out of darkness into light (1 Peter 2:9): We are rescued from spiritual blindness and brought into the marvelous light of Christ.
This relationship is the wellspring of our joy, a constant reminder of God's immense love and grace.
II. Recipients of God’s Constant Concern: The Nearness of God
A. The Lord is Near (Philippians 4:5):
This isn't just a theological concept; it's a practical reality. God is actively involved in our lives.
• This "nearness" isn't solely about the Second Coming, but about God’s constant presence and interaction with us.
• James 4:8 and Psalm 73:28 remind us that drawing near to God results in Him drawing near to us.
B. He Cares for Us (1 Peter 5:7):
We can cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us. His concern is not distant or abstract; it is personal and profound.
C. The Nearness of the Lord Demonstrated:
• In the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 10:16): We commune with Christ, experiencing His presence in a tangible way.
• He is accessible to us (Hebrews 7:25): We have direct access to the Father through Christ, our High Priest.
• He is our Advocate (1 John 2:1-2): When we stumble, we have a faithful advocate who pleads our case before the Father.
God's nearness is not just a promise; it's a lived reality, a constant source of comfort and strength.
III. Rejoice in Future Glory: The Hope That Sustains Us
A. The High Calling (Philippians 3:14):
We are called to a higher purpose, a heavenly calling that transcends earthly limitations.
• We are called by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14), set apart for His glory.
B. Looking Forward to Glory (Philippians 3:20-21):
Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await the day when Christ will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.
C. We Will See Him and Be Like Him (1 John 3:1-3):
We will see Him face to face, and we will be transformed into His likeness. This is the ultimate fulfillment of our hope.
D. We Will Ever Be With the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17):
We will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 1 What a glorious promise!
JOY IN CHRIST
- By the way God reveals himself Luke 10:21
- By finding the lost sheep Luke 15:5
- It remains in believers John 15:11
- Granted through his words John 17:13
- He sustained him on the cross Hebrews 12:2
Great Joy, its occasions
- In the laying of the foundations of the Temple: Ezra 3:12.
- In the creation: Job 38:7.
- In the coming of Christ: Matt. 2:10.
- In the resurrection of Christ: Matt. 28:8.
- In the ascension of Christ: Luke 24:52.
- In the conversion of the Gentiles: Acts 15:3
Conclusion:
Our reasons for rejoicing are rooted in the very nature of God and His relationship with us. We rejoice in the Lord, in His constant nearness, and in the glorious future that awaits us. Let this symphony of grace resonate in our hearts, filling us with unwavering joy and hope. Let us live as those who have tasted the goodness of God, reflecting His love and light to a world in need. Amen.
