A Joyful Sound

Pastor Hilton preaches from Psalm 89:15, declaring that God loves sound and that a joyful sound distinguishes His people. He traces this through Scripture: the heavenly host at Jesus' birth, the disciples' loud praise at the triumphal entry, and the sound from heaven at Pentecost that drew a multitude. He emphasizes that everyone born of the Spirit produces a distinct sound—not a chaotic, self-glorifying noise, but a genuine testimony of God's grace. Using 1 Corinthians 14, he contrasts uncertain sounds that confuse with the certain, distinct sound that prepares believers for battle and worship. He illustrates this through the blind man Bartimaeus and the two blind men by the wayside, who cried out to Jesus despite attempts to silence them. Pastor Hilton stresses that a joyful sound comes from a grateful heart, is unashamed, and draws God's attention. He concludes by inviting the congregation to make a joyful noise, referencing Psalms that command praise, and assures that this sound brings blessing, joy, and the light of God's countenance.