Sermon Notes

Introduction to New Series: The Joy of Christmas

In the words of Andy Williams, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” not for the reasons in his song, but for a very special reason: God came to earth through His son, Jesus Christ, to bring light, hope, salvation, and everlasting joy to the world. During this Advent season, we will focus on Joy and explore some of its characteristics rooted in our faith and trust in Christ.

The situation – Two pregnant relatives overflowing with Joy – Luke 1:39-45

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. v41

• During the 6th month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, Mary journeyed from Nazareth to visit a hillside town in Judea.

• As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby, six months in her womb, leapt for joy, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

Application

Pregnancy naturally breeds expectation of what is to come, but the same can be said for anything that the Lord has placed in your heart. What is the Holy Spirit doing within you that is making you excited and filling you with Joy?

The Problem – Does Joy mean I will always be happy? – Luke 1:5-8

But they were childless because Elizabeth could not conceive, and they were both very old. v7

• The source of our joy is rooted in our relationship with God and our knowledge of salvation.

• Happiness depends on external factors, which can change with life’s circumstances.

• Zechariah and Elizabeth continued to trust and serve God despite their inability to have children.

Application

The Joy that comes from knowing God and His truth endures through changing seasons and moods — whether in happiness, sadness, celebration or mourning. During low moments, take time to reflect on the Joy of your salvation through Jesus Christ. – See Rom 8:35-39

The Solution & Celebration – The gift of Joy is free, eternal, and open to all – Luke 1:45-50

His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation. v50

• Both Elizabeth and Mary recognised the significance of what was happening in their lives and the impact their children would have on the world.

• This everlasting joy does not fade in difficult times or amidst challenges; the joy of the Lord is our strength each day.

Application

No wonder Paul could write from prison, “Rejoice in the Lord always”: and again, I say, Rejoice. – Because the gift of salvation, along with the power and fruit of the Holy Spirit, continually reminds us that nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Discussion questions

1. Is there a spiritual moment in your life that you would say created joy? What were the circumstances around this time?
2. What does this passage teach us about joy? How can we cultivate a sense of joy in the Lord, even when our circumstances are difficult? – see Luke 1:39-45
3. Can you share a time when you were joyful, even though you weren’t all that happy?
4. Mary believed the angel’s message, while Zechariah (Elizabeth’s husband) doubted and was muted. How do their different responses challenge or inspire your own faith when God calls you to an unexpected action?
5. Mary “hurried” to visit Elizabeth after receiving the news from the angel (v. 39). Why do you think she felt this urgency, and what does it teach us about seeking godly counsel and support from fellow believers during life-altering times?
6. What does this passage teach us about joy? How can we cultivate a sense of joy in the Lord, even when our circumstances are difficult? – see Luke 1:39-45