“Joy” is an important concept in the Bible. Find out how to understand this biblical theme and apply it to your life.
Talking Points:
- From the very beginning of the Bible, God called his creation “good” and “very good” (Genesis 1). So it is natural for people to find “joy” in the “good” things in life.
- Biblical “joy” offers a unique perspective. We do not have joy and hope because everything is great all the time, but because we have ultimate trust in God’s love and promises.
- The joy of God’s people is not based on their current circumstances, but on their ultimate destiny. Even though the earliest Christians suffered for proclaiming Jesus’s resurrection, they had joy (Acts 13:49-52).
- When you place your faith in Jesus Christ you will have true joy and hope even through even the greatest trials. Philippians 3:1
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Who is a particularly joyful person you’ve known? Describe this person. Why do you think they’re so joyful?
- “We do not have joy and hope because everything is great all the time, but because we have ultimate trust in God’s love and promises.” Explain why you agree or disagree with this statement. If you have any examples, share one.
- Read Philippians 3:1. Paul wrote these words while he was in prison, and he wrote it to people in a city that hated them for their faith in Jesus. How should this affect how we view joy and rejoicing in the Lord?
- Read Hebrews 12:2-3. How could Jesus have had “joy” in this situation? What does this teach us?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
