Good New of Great Joy

Luke 2:8-11

The angel told shepherds I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. In what way is Jesus’ birth and His presence in our lives a cause for great joy? Let us see what the Bible has to say about joy and its connection with the person and work of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the Old Testament there are many words that convey the idea of rejoicing and happiness. It is often referred to as an expression, rather than a state of mind. There are many references to outward displays such as shouting, cheering, making noise and dancing.

There is a difference between occasions for joy and causes for joy. Causes for joy might include things like the birth of a child, success in life, honorable children, wise conduct and God’s forgiveness. Fellowship with God is a cause for great joy as the psalmist says - in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11, ESV). The Psalmist anticipates a joy that is more evident in the New Testament.

Occasions for joy were many. National and communal rejoicing took place for military victories, feast days, coronations or even the dedications of major construction projects. While the occasions for rejoicing were often connected to an event, the cause for joy was the faithfulness of God. It was God who brought salvation, vindication and prosperity to His people. He was their king. God’s character, justice, faithfulness, love, strength and goodness evoked joy. When God blessed them, they were glad. When He withheld His blessings and brought judgment, their joy was lost. While the nation was in exile the prophets spoke of a time when God would restore their joy and bring them prosperity. In Isaiah chapter 9 the prophet said there would be an increase of joy, just a few verses before he spoke about the birth of a child who would be called Prince of Peace. Many prophets spoke about a messianic age when Israel and all creation would rejoice.  

When the angel gave the news of great joy to the shepherds, it fulfilled a messianic expectation. Jesus would be the cause of great joy for all the people. His ministry and teaching brought joy as He healed people, cast out demons and forgave sinners, even as He taught, people responded with joy. He embodied God’s presence for them. On the cross He provided forgiveness for those who trusted Him, making them right with God. His resurrection demonstrated that He had conquered death and given us the hope of eternal life. He ascended to the right hand of God to intercede for us. He gives us hope, enabling us to rejoice even when there is no outward reason to do so. Jesus’ death and resurrection are the cause of great joy for those who believe in Him and welcome Him into their lives. He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell us and bear the fruit of joy in our lives.

Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we who believe become God’s children, members of God’s family. We enjoy God’s presence and rejoice for His work in each member of the family. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to rejoice always, even when afflicted for His sake and for the sake of His church. We remember that He suffered for us and that by sharing in His suffering we participate in his glory.

His second coming will also bring joy to those who wholeheartedly wait for the defeat of evil and for God’s justice to be done on earth as it is in heaven. With this hope in mind Jude ended his epistle by giving glory to God who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy. This is the living hope of every Christian.

I want to end with this important fact about the word joy in New Testament. The root word for joy is closely related with the word for grace. Joy is both a gift of God as well and a response to His gifts. Joy comes as we are aware of God’s grace and relish His favor.

As we celebrate the birth and revelation of our Lord let us remember the main cause for our joy. God loved the world so much that He sent Jesus to save us when we were perishing. He came and lived among us so we could become His children. He came to give us new life, with new meaning and purpose. He brought us hope and peace. The better we understand this grace that has been given to us, the more we will rejoice. Regardless of the occasion or the circumstances of our lives we can and will rejoice because He came, He is here, and He is coming again.

Rev. Hendrik Shanazarian

Minister to the Union