Advent - The Great Joy Of The Gospel

Advent—The Great Joy of the Gospel Luke 1:39-45; 2:8-14 There is an undeniable connection between God’s presence and true joy. “You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest . . .” Isaiah 9:3 In Need of Joy . . .  Without Christ there is no hope, and without hope there is no joy.  The things of this world will never produce joy. The Joy of His Presence . . .  The advent of Jesus was God’s gift of great joy. (Luke 1:39-45; 2:8-14) o Where Christ is not present, there is no joy. (Isaiah 9:1-3) o Where Christ is present, there is overwhelming joy. (Matthew 2:10)  The indwelling presence of Christ is the source of all joy. (Psalm 16:11; 37:4) o Inexplicable joy is experienced when we are delighting and finding pleasure in Christ. o All satisfying joy eludes us when we pursue the “lesser joys” of life. o Sustaining joy is present even in times of sorrow. (2 Corinthians 6:10; John 16:16-22) God’s Invitation to You . . .  God invites all, through His Son Jesus, to know the joy of His salvation. o Without Christ, all is not right. o In Christ, all is made right.