14th June, 2015 - The Joy of The Lord is Our Strength - Newton
Watch the Sunday Service from Christian Fellowship Church, Bangalore
Summary
The sermon focuses on the theme of praise and joy, drawing heavily on scripture to encourage the congregation to worship God. Key passages emphasize that God's favor is eternal, and believers should rejoice because of the forgiveness and salvation found in Christ. The message concludes with a call to praise God for His mighty works and enduring grace.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The joy of the Lord is your strengthBelievers are meant to be strong in the Lord, and Nehemiah 8:10 tells us that this strength comes from having the joy of the Lord 24/7.
Rejoice because your names are written in heavenJesus told His disciples not to get excited merely over spiritual power, but rather that their names are recorded in heaven.Luke 10:20
Happiness versus JoyHappiness is external, emotional, and dependent on circumstances like food or promotions, whereas joy is internal, rooted in God, and remains constant.
The Kingdom of God brings joy in the Holy SpiritWhen God governs our lives, He brings righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, which is a hallmark of being filled with the Spirit.Romans 14:17
Jesus wants His joy to remain in usJesus spoke these things so that His joy might remain in His followers and that their joy might be made complete.
Rejoice in the Lord alwaysRejoicing is a command and a choice of the will, independent of changing feelings or external circumstances, much like going to work or school regardless of mood.
The sacrifice of joyDavid spoke of offering the sacrifice of joy and praising the Lord even when circumstances are difficult and feelings do not cooperate.
Rejoicing like HabakkukEven when material provisions fail and life is hard, the spiritual person rejoices in the God of their salvation.
Counting trials as joyJames encourages believers to count it all joy when facing various trials, knowing that the testing of faith produces endurance.
Drawing water from the wells of salvationBelievers can draw strength, healing, and grace with joy from the spiritual wells that God has provided.Isaiah 12:3
Heaven rejoices over a repenting sinnerRather than living in constant gloom or discouragement, Christians should remember that heaven throws a party when a sinner repents.
Gladness in the presence of the LordWhile there is deep reverence for God, His presence is also characterized by fullness of joy, pleasures forevermore, and gladness.
Anointed with the oil of gladnessJesus was anointed with the oil of gladness above all others because He loved righteousness and hated iniquity, setting an example for believers.
God's tender care and delightGod relates to His people with warmth and affection, picturing a safe environment where children can play freely in His presence.
Joy as fruit of the SpiritJoy is listed as a primary fruit of the Holy Spirit's work within the believer's life, transforming them into a happy person.
