Jesus brings joy and there is great joy in His birth and ministry. What is joy? How does Jesus really bring joy? How is this different from manufactured joy? How can we experience joy in Jesus?
Sermon Outline
“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people..” (Luke 2:9-10)
A Little History Lesson
- Christmas
- Epiphany
A Little Language Lesson
- Happiness
- Joy
A Big Announcement
- Matthew 2:1-12
- Luke 2:1-15
Joy Then, and Joy Now.
- Fear
- Joy
- Community
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Spend time slowly reading aloud the two accounts of Jesus’ birth in the Gospels. Note the times mood, emotions, feelings, and the like are mentioned. Ask the Holy Spirit to illumine your understanding of the Joy of Christ’s appearing to the Jewish people.
- What has joy meant to you in your life? What are some times you chose Joy over Fear?
- Do a quick word study on the word Joy in the gospels. What do you find in the contexts around the word Joy? Here is a quick list of places to look to help you get started. (Matthew 2:10; Matthew 13:20; Matthew 13:44; Matthew 25:21; Matthew 25:23; Matthew 28:8; Mark 4:16; Luke 1:14; Luke 2:10; Luke 8:13; Luke 10:17; Luke 15:7; Luke 15:10; Luke 24:41; Luke 24:52; John 3:29; John 15:11; John 16:20-22; John 16:24; John 17:13)
- The Angel’s declared “Fear Not!” What are the fears in your life that usurp your Joy?
- Matthew makes kind of a big deal about the Wise Men showing up, why do you think that is? Who is the Joy of the gospel for? What was Matthews goal, as best we can perceive, in doing this?
DIG DEEPER
- Watch this video again, and as we celebrate the Christmas Season, find ways to share Joy with those around you.
- Memorize on Isaiah 51:11.
- The Gospel brings “great joy to all people.” Share the gospel this week in a tangible way.
- Merry Christmas!