Effie Darlene Barba ⋆ Page 2 of 378 ⋆ Inspiring Joy in Lifes Toughest Moments

7 Amazing Reasons We Overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB)

How wonderful and marvelous a thought! Our hope is not based on the frailties of this world. It is not based on a government, money, position, health, popularity, or anything this earth can offer. Our hope is based on the God of hope who can fill our very being with abounding hope by the power of the Holy Spirit because of Jesus Christ’s atoning work on the cross. We overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ!

We abound in hope because the God of hope fills us with all joy and peace in believing. Then He empowers us with the full power of the Holy Spirit who is the very essence of God’s hope, joy, and love in His son Jesus Christ. Here I wish to present 7 Amazing reasons we can overflow with Hope regardless of the storms we face or the fires we must walk through. Always and forever, our hope is in Jesus Christ.

Our hope is first founded in the truth of Justification, Redemption, and Sanctification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ Alone. This work in completed in us by the Holy Spirit and not of ourselves. Therefore, in addition to these first 3 Essential Reasons. We are also promised and given love, unity, gifts, and governance so we might shine forth this hope to all of whom we meet.

Reasons We Overflow with Hope—the book of Romans

Paul the apostle wrote the book of Romans most likely from Corinth. He longed to go there. The Roman church is believed to have been founded by some of the initial converts on the day of Pentecost. Neither Peter nor Paul had gone to Rome at that point. They referenced Peter because he was the one who preached at the day of Pentecost. Peter would later go to Rome around 68 AD near the time the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Roman leaders. This letter was somewhere around 57 AD. That may be in part why it is the letter most complete in doctrine so as to have been even called the “Constitution of Christianity” or the Christian Manifesto.

Afterall if the church leaders had no formal training it was important they learn all the truth from the beginning. Step by step Paul explains the truth from the depravity of sin that indwelt all of mankind to the marvelous truth of the gospel message of salvation. He meticulously explains salvation as justification, redemption, and sanctification. Then he explains the further promises and gifts of love, unity, governance and gifts. Finally, throughout he explains the marvelous work of the Holy Spirit in all of this.

ROMANS 1 to overflow with Hope

Paul, a bondservant of Christ Jesus. Called as an apostle. Set apart for the gospel of God, which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures concerning His Son. Who was born of a descendant of David according to the flesh. Who was declared the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles in behalf of His name. Among whom you also are the Called of Jesus Christ. Romans 1:1-6 (NASB)

Paul who had been so zealous a Jew in persecuting church, understood full well that all his prior training and all he now was, all came about by the grace of God. He was not seeking to know Jesus. Very content in his own ways, believing himself righteous, he missed the truth as well. That is until one day Jesus appeared to him, and he could no longer go against the one true Savior. All his knowledge of Old Testament Scripture suddenly came to light. He now could see how everything pointed to Christ. And that now Jesus Christ was the fulfillment of every mystery and every promise. He was the hope we had all looked for.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 (NASB)

That was the verse that changed Martin Luther’s life forever.

Transformed to Overflow with Hope

Martin Luther was heavily obsessed with the depths of his own sin. It is said he would go into the confessional and while there he would confess of every thought he had. Often the priest would finally tell him to go home. As he confessed, he realized even his thoughts then were sinful. Oppressed with the realization that no one could truly live righteously, he lived tormented. Then one day while reading he noticed. It was not a righteousness that he could obtain. It was the righteousness of God which could only occur through faith. No righteousness of man was good enough. It was God’s righteousness imputed upon man. Not what man could do himself.

This is the overflow of hope that Paul presents so clearly in Romans.

But before he can present the solution, Paul makes certain they understand the problem of sin. It is more than a choice one makes one day. It is indeed a chain that enslaves the heart and soul of mankind. A chain that cannot be removed by one’s own efforts. Indeed, despite God’s common grace displaying His glory throughout creation, humanity chose to worship the creation rather than the creator. Even the consequences of their sinful nature being so evident as to their evil nature, they marched forward. And the very wrath of God against the sin became evident. Not because he desired wrath. Rather He while desiring righteousness and joy for His creation, recognized the destruction of their sin. He knew the sin would destroy all that was good as they drew farther from Him. Thus, we see clearly the wrath of God against sin.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. Romans 1:18-19 (NASB)

All of Humanity and Creation Doomed Without A Savior

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools Romans 1: 20-21

And this is the fate and result.

filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:29-32 (NASB)

So that none are righteous no not one. No hope in sight but God presented a plan of salvation. A plan to overflow with hope for all who would believe. That plan first presented to Adam and Eve now was clearly presented in Jesus Christ.

Overflow with Hope because of Justification

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (NASB).

And in this justification, we have hope even amid trials, persecutions, and storms. How?

hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:5 (NASB)

But how can we be justified if we are so lost and chained by sin?

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. …God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6,8 NIV

Therefore, we overflow with hope.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:9-10 (NIV)

Furthermore, we overflow with joy because of Redemption

Redemption means we are set free from the slavery we once were enslaved to. No longer must I yield to the chains that held me. Why?

Therefore, there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:1-4 (NASB)

But how do I walk according to the Spirit?

However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8: 9-11 (NASB)

So, how can I not overflow with joy? All who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior has the indwelling Holy Spirit. Therefore, I have no chance to ever be condemned again. I have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. The chains are gone. Sin has no power over me. Hallalujah! Amen!

We Overflow with Hope because of Sanctification

Being transformed into the Saint I have already been declared to be. Everything that happens in my life is the Holy Spirit working toward that goal so that one day, I will look like my Savior. I will shine forth His glory. For now I am clothed in His righteousness—then I will be righteous.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. Romans 8:28-30 (NASB)

And if that were not enough to overflow with joy

He has also promised us His unwavering, steadfast love that we cannot be separated from.

For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NASB)

He has also given us unity that we may have the power of many with us.

just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12: 4-5 (NIV)

He gave us varying gifts, so that we could join hands to be the best version of Christ to the world. No one is to do it all alone. We are a community of believers.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12: 6-8 (NIV).

Furthermore, God Gave Governance

God established Kings and Kingdoms. He oversees the good and the bad. Yet, He established governance so there would not be total chaos. Can you imagine were there no laws or authorities in this world? God will accomplish all that He has planned. We should never worry about that. Therefore, we overflow with hope in a world gone mad.

Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore, whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; Romans 13: 1-2 (NASB)

Certainly, we do not disobey God. If the law says I go to prison for praying, then I must surrender peacefully to the authorities and go to prison. Even in this God reigns supreme.

How many people have been blessed by Pilgrim’s Progress? John Bunyan was in prison for refusing to stop preaching the gospel. His wife and children were at home.

Therefore, We Overflow with Hope because we Have God’s Hope in Us

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB)

Therefore because of that, let us

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12: 1-2 (NKJV)

understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light…., clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:11,12,14 (NIV)

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

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If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

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Transforming Work Of The Holy Spirit From Glory To Glory. How?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Transforming Work Of The Holy Spirit From Glory To Glory. How?

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NASB

As we look at the book of Corinthians, we see the very heart and soul of Paul. He dearly loved the Corinthian Church where he had spent 18 months teaching them. He also worked as a tent maker staying with Aquila and Priscilla. His first trip to Corinth was at the end of his second missionary journey right after having presented the Gospel boldly to little avail in Athens. His journey had been met with many trials along the way with great dissidence in each city forcing his departure. Remember even in the first journey, near Lystra, he was stoned and left for dead. Weary and perhaps disheartened, he arrived in Corinth. Yet, he would teach them of the transforming work of the Holy Spirit from Glory to Glory.

His heart was on display. He clearly spoke of his own frailty and inability to do God’s work apart from the power of the Holy Spirit transforming him and all who would believe. Corinth was known as a port city thriving with immorality. Yet, Paul had a very special love for Corinth. He saw them as his children in Christ.

I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore, I urge you, be imitators of me. For this reason, I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. 1 Corinthians 4:14-17 NASB

Transforming Work of the Holy Spirit

Paul wrote them concerned for their divisions and strife initially. But also their liberality. The people were more concerned about which “sect” they were of than the truth of the gospel message. Some proclaimed themselves followers of Apollo, others Peter, some Paul and others proclaimed they follow only Christ. Yet even those did so with an air of arrogance and not one of true humility serving Christ.

when I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come as someone superior in speaking ability or wisdom, as I proclaimed to you the testimony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I also was with you in weakness and fear, and in great trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of mankind, but on the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2: 1-5 NASB

Nothing but the Work of the Holy Spirit

He continually pointed them back to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can transform a heart from glory to glory that we might understand the truth of the gospel. The Holy Spirit instills a love and devotion within our heart to know and follow Jesus Christ.

Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away; but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory;the wisdom which none of the rulers of this age has understood; for if they had understood it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory; but just as it is written:

“Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard,

And which have not entered the human heart,

All that God has prepared for those who love Him.” I Corinthians 2:6-9 NASB

Only through the Transformation of the Holy Spirit is True Wisdom

Only through the transformation of the Holy Spirit from Glory to Glory has Paul or Apollos or Peter been able to teach them anything of the gospel of Christ. It is the wisdom of God, not man that is necessary to grow. Christ is the wisdom of God made manifest.

For to us God revealed them through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God. For who among people knows the thoughts of a person except the spirit of the person that is in him? So also the thoughts of God no one knows, except the Spirit of God. Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God. We also speak these things, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. 1 Corinthians 2:10-13 NASB

Beware of false teachers, for they do not know God. But we (all who know Jesus as Savior have the Holy Spirit within us. Therefore, we may come to have the mind of Christ for Christ is the wisdom of God.

But a natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. But the one who is spiritual discerns all things, yet he himself is discerned by no one. For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he will instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ. I Corinthians 2: 14-16 (NASB)

Yet the transforming work of the Holy Spirit requires growth

That growth may be very gradual, still it will come. How do you know if you are growing?

And I, brothers and sisters, could not speak to you as spiritual people, but only as fleshly, as to infants in Christ. I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to consume it. But even now you are not yet able, for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like ordinary people? I Corinthians 3:1-3 (NASB)

Actions Showing the Lack of Maturity

Jealousy, envy, and anger are signs we need a little more work in that field. The Holy Spirit will transform us, sometimes despite us kicking and screaming all the way, like an unruly child. But He will transform all who belong to Christ. Of that I am certain. Therefore, it is wiser to study the word, spend time in prior, and be willing to be molded.

According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each person must be careful how he builds on it. For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, each one’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each one’s work. If anyone’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet only so as through fire. I Corinthians 3:10-15 (NASB)

Over the years, God has sent different teachers and different circumstances to help me to grow each step of the way. For every stage of life.

There were pastors sent for specific times and circumstances.

The Holy Spirit Indwells You; therefore you are a Temple

Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone destroys the temple of God, God will destroy that person; for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are. I Corinthians 3: 16-17 NASB

As a temple you are being transformed by the Holy Spirit into a vessel of honor.

Take care that no one deceives himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the sight of God. For it is written: “He is the one who catches the wise by their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are useless.” So then, no one is to be boasting in people. For all things belong to you, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. I Corinthians 3:18-23 NASB

No teacher is higher or to be esteemed. They are the servants of God. Yet, we see in Corinthians Paul’s heart and his brokenness over the struggles. He so wished their maturity; yet understood it was not his work. The transforming work of the Holy Spirit from glory to glory would complete the work in them. All he could really do was nurture them, guide them and even that was the Holy Spirit working through him. Yet, it is easy to note in these two letters a sadness of tone. A sorrow and perhaps fatigue. I find that comforting that even Paul at times felt himself so inadequate.

Many things to address

In addition to the problem of divisions, there was a problem of sin tolerance. A parishioner was sleeping with his father’s wife and they said nothing to him. Much like some of the churches today. In the name of tolerance and love, never speak out against sin. Yet, once they did address it, there was another case by II Corinthians when they became so intolerant, the refused to accept in someone after they repented. Furthermore, they then were becoming ritualistic. From one extreme to the other.

Yet the truth was that the transforming work of the Holy Spirit shone brightly as to the truth of the gospel. It was not the work of Paul that needed glorification, yet the labor had not been in vain. The change in their lives commended the fact he brought them the true gospel

You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all people, revealing yourselves, that you are a letter of Christ, delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. II Corinthians 3:2-3 NASB

The Power is of Christ, not the teacher.

Such is the confidence we have toward God through Christ. Not that we are adequate in ourselves so as to consider anything as having come from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. II Corinthians 3: 4-6

Faith not Works

But if the ministry of death, engraved in letters on stones, came with glory so that the sons of Israel could not look intently at the face of Moses because of the glory of his face, fading as it was, how will the ministry of the Spirit fail to be even more with glory? II Corinthians 3: 7-8 NASB

When Moses went up on the mountain to receive the stones and came back down his face shown with such glory that he had to wear a veil. In the temple there was a veil so that the “glory of God” did not shine so bright as to kill all those there. Only the high priest could go behind the veil. That veil was torn in two when Christ completed the work of redemption on the cross.

But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their hearts; but whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. II Corinthians 3:15-16 NASB

The Law Cannot Transform a Heart

The law cannot transform a heart. The veil remains over the heart and eyes unless they turn to the Lord. For all who know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior the veil is removed and we can see His glory. Albeit, through a glass dimly; but it is that glimpse of His glory that transforms us to look more like Him.

WHISPERS OF LOVE

Whispers of Love flowing all through my life

Even in moments of sorrow or strife

Whispers that came in the dark of the night

Promising Joy with the new morning light

Whispers of hope for the bleakest of day

“Love will find strength and will find its way”

Into your heart and grow from within

Until it flows forth rejoicing and then

Suddenly out of those long and sad years

Love does spring forth out of fountains of tears

Into rivers of joy bursting forth then to see

That love had been there abiding in me

Oh, thank you dear Lord for teaching me love

As Your spirit descends with the wings of a dove

And gathered the pieces of this shattered heart

To weave it with steel, Your glory impart

A Picture so rare, its beauty unmasked

A portrait of you made in brilliant stained glass

Your love had been there inside of me

Even when I had been too blind to see

Whispers of love, it was You all along

Holding me close, I am your love song!

Effie Darlene Barba

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

How To Live A Christian Life By Grace Free From The Law

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

How To Live A Christian Life By Grace Free From The Law

O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified. Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? Galatians 3:1-3 (ESV)

Paul the apostle had gone to the Southern area of Galatia in his first Missionary Journey. That is when he established churches in Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe as noted in Act:13:14-14:23). Then after going to the Council in Jerusalem, he got word that the churches were being infiltrated by false doctrine. Precisely it was the teaching of the Judaizers. These told them thier salvation was not complete unless they followed all the Jewish laws and traditions including circumcision. Paul then writes them this letter. He explains how one lives a Christian Life by Grace, free from the law. Still even though we are free from the law we are not to live a life bound with sin either.

Our relationship to Christ in its truest sense forbids a life of sin, because of love. The work of the Holy Spirit within us empowers us to live a Christian Life. A life exemplifying Christ with Joy, love, devotion, and kindness. We should be Holy even as He is holy. But how?

Does God then give you the Spirit and work miracles among you by your doing the works of the law or by your believing what you heard? Galatians 3:5 (NET)

Paul delves deeply into the scriptures from Genesis. In this manner, he presents a solid argument for the truth of the gospel through grace because of Jesus Christ. It is not a new idea, but what was originally presented in promise to Abraham.

Life by Grace Free From the Law

Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, so then, understand that those who believe are the sons of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, proclaimed the gospel to Abraham ahead of time, saying, “All the nations will be blessed in you.”So then those who believe are blessed along with Abraham the believer. Galatians 3:6-9 (NET)

Abraham was given the promise. Precisely that promise of God included the salvation of the Gentiles. How? Through the seed that was to come from Him, namely Jesus. This promise was made before circumcision was ordered for the Nation of Israel beginning with Abraham. The circumcision was to set them apart from the world as a race through whom the promise would come. Yet, no human act could bring about the salvation of the soul. Because, no action could bring about the spiritual birth necessary to be united to God. Only God can awaken the dead soul. Faith is the key. Even faith cannot occur without an awakening of the spirit by the Holy Spirit of God.

We are children of the promise with a full inheritance in heaven, all who believe. That does not erase the genetic decedents still known as the Jewish nation. All the covenantal promises to them and how God will restore them to true worship in Him remains true.

Although we become a part of the promise when we believe, we do not replace them. There is not a replacement theory. The nation of Israel remains the Children of the Old Testament Covenant as God’s Chosen Nation, He will complete His work with them as well.

Free From the Law to Live a Life of Grace

Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as of many, but as of one, “And to your Seed,” who is Christ. And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Galatians 3:15-18 (NKJV).

So if the law was not necessary for the Promise to Abraham then was there a purpose? We say that it was to demonstrate our own depravity. The law is like a bright mirror shining forth our inability to live a life of righteousness before a Holy Righteous God. But it is more than that.

What Was the Purpose of the Law?

What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made Galatians 3: 19 (NKJV)

And to whom was this promise made? To all who would believe. Because of transgressions, a law was necessary to help guard the people until the promised one came. The law was like a tutor or guardian until the seed of promise came. Jesus would come to provide the propitiation for our sin on the cross.

Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law. But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Galatians 3: 21-23 (NKJV)

No Need of a Tutor once Free from the law

Therefore, the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. Galatians 3:24-25

We are no longer as believers under a tutor because we have the Holy Spirit indwelling us. So, who is the Holy Spirit? The third person of the trinity.

John Edwards Wrote in his Discourse on the Trinity

    Therefore as God with perfect clearness, fullness and strength understands himself, views his own essence . . . that idea which God hath of himself is absolutely himself. This representation of the divine nature and essence is the divine nature and essence again. So that by God’s thinking of the Deity, [the Deity] must certainly be generated. Hereby there is another person begotten; there is another infinite, eternal, almighty, and most holy and the same God, the very same divine nature.

    And this person is the second person in the Trinity, the only begotten and dearly beloved Son of God. He is the eternal, necessary, perfect, substantial and personal idea which God hath of himself . . .

    The Godhead being thus begotten by God’s having an idea of himself and standing forth in a distinct subsistence or person in that idea, there proceeds a most pure act, and an infinitely holy and sweet energy arises between the Father and Son: for their love and joy is mutual, in mutually loving and delighting in each other. Proverbs 8:30, “I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before [him].” This is the eternal and most perfect and essential act of the divine nature, wherein the Godhead acts to an infinite degree and in the most perfect manner possible. The Deity becomes all act; the divine essence itself flows out and is as it were breathed forth in love and joy. So that the Godhead therein stands forth in yet another manner of subsistence, and there proceeds the third person in the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, viz. the Deity in act . . .

    And this I suppose to be that blessed Trinity that we read of in the holy Scriptures. The Father is the Deity subsisting in the prime, unoriginated and most absolute manner, or the Deity in its direct existence. The Son is the Deity generated by God’s understanding, or having an idea of himself, and subsisting in that idea. The Holy Ghost is the Deity subsisting in act or the divine essence flowing out and breathed forth, in God’s infinite love to and delight in himself. And I believe the whole divine essence does truly and distinctly subsist both in the divine idea and divine love, and that therefore each of them are properly distinct persons.¹

¹ Edwards, Jonathan, An unpublished Essay on the Trinity, https://ccel.org/ccel/edwards/trinity/trinity.i.html

Free from the Law—Indwelt with the Holy Spirit to Love

As the Holy Spirit is the essence of God’s love and joy flowing forth from Father and Son and surrounding them. Therefore, at minimum the Holy Spirit purposes in filling our spirit with a proper Love and joy in God, the Father and the Son. Overflowing and overwhelmed with that love, we cannot help but surrender to the will of the Father. This becomes a natural response of obedience as we embrace the Word.

We become very sensitive to the Spirits welding of our spirit. Unhappy and frustrated when our spirit is wrestling with our flesh. Peaceful and joyous when we recognize the “filling of the Spirit” which pushes aside our own selfish desires.

If Free from the law, then what?

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing. And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. Galatians 5:1-5 (NKJV)

Is Paul saying we should not live a life that exemplifies the law? Not really. What matters is the heart of the issue. If by placing the yoke of the law on my shoulders again, with the “I must not do this” or I must do that to gain God’s favor, then I might as well be under the law for everything. Instead, if my response to choose what is right comes from my love for Jesus and the Father with the work of the Holy Spirit in me, then the action is from the right heart surrendered to the Father.

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Galatians 5: 16-18 NKJV

Live the Christian Life by Grace, free from the law

Because of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the promised seed, we are free from the law which could only condemn but had no power to save. It could guide us, but not make us alive. Yet, in Christ Jesus we are free.

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1: 12-14

Free from the Law, but empowered by the Holy Spirit through Grace

And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. Ephesians 1:19-23 KJV

Transformed and made new

When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit comes in to indwell us.

Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

No longer must I bow to my flesh or place those shackles on ever again. I can take on the yoke of Christ instead, which he promised to be a burden so light as to lift us up above all these trials. Just as a pair of oxen are yoked in such a manner that the weight of the work is distributed, our taking on the yoke of the law is grueling. Yet, when we are yoked with Christ, we are lifted up off the ground and toil, as He carries the burden fully on His shoulders.

Therefore, free from the law, we can fully enjoy the fruits of the spirit

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-25 NKJV

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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How To Live A Joyful Christian Life That Reflects Jesus To The World

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

How To Live A Joyful Christian Life That Reflects Jesus To The World

Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:2-5 NASB

The Epistle of James takes a slightly different focus than the letters of Paul. It instructs us how to live a joyful Christian life that truly reflects Jesus to the world. Whereas Paul the apostle presents first and foremost the theology of salvation. He taught the gospel of Christ for salvation and describes how that changes our life from the inside out.

James takes a practical approach to describe what that should look like. Knowing the truth that Salvation is by Grace Alone through Faith Alone in Christ Alone, he declares genuine faith will set about a transformation in one’s life. Knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will undoubtedly change how one approaches every other aspect of one’s life. He, therefore, in his epistle is addressing believers foremost. In a world filled with tumultuous trials, he tells them the steps to live out their faith regardless of the circumstances. Therein joy and hope are the natural byproducts of that faith.

This James is believed to be the half-brother of Jesus. There seems little doubt of this fact as the apostle James, the brother of John was killed by Herod before this letter was written. James, the lesser, does not fit the portrait . Furthermore, we know from Galatians 1 that James was a leader in the Jerusalem church. Paul wrote of his trip to Jerusalem.

I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. Galatians 1:18-19 (NKJV)

James played a prominent role in the Council in Jerusalem where we noted in Acts 15, a style and reference much the same as the epistle of James.

James Concerning the Gentile Believers

At first the Jewish believers in Jerusalem were skeptical of the gentile outreach. Peter told them God had come to him in a vision saying “do not call what I have cleansed, unclean.” He had even gone to the house of a Centurion where the Centurion and his entire family were saved and received the Holy Spirit as confirmation the same as the Jewish believers. Then it was James who spoke up.

After they stopped speaking, James responded, saying, Brothers, listen to me. Simeon has described how God first concerned Himself about taking a people for His name from among the Gentiles. The words of the Prophets agree with this, just as it is written:

‘After these things I will return,

I will rebuild the fallen tabernacle of David,

And I will rebuild its ruins,

I will restore it,

So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord. And all the Gentiles who are called by My name,’ Says the Lord, who makes these things known from long ago.

Therefore, it is my judgment that we do not cause trouble for those from the Gentiles who are turning to God, but that we write to them that they abstain from things contaminated by idols, from acts of sexual immorality, from what has been strangled, and from blood. For from ancient generations Moses has those who preach him in every city, since he is read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” Acts 15:13-21

A Letter Sent by James to the Gentiles to Encourage a Joyful Christian Life

“The apostles and the brothers who are elders, to the brothers and sisters in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia who are from the Gentiles: Greetings. Since we have heard that some of our number to whom we gave no instruction have confused you by their teaching, upsetting your souls, it seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to select men to send to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, we have sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will also report the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these essentials: that you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from acts of sexual immorality; if you keep yourselves free from such things, you will do well. Farewell.” Act 15:22-29 (NASB)

Hence, he was saying you do not have to worry about all the traditions the Jewish people tried to place on them. However, to do well and live joyfully, remember these few ordinances to help you grow in Christ.

Saved by Grace; yet Exemplified by Actions to live a Joyful Christian Life

Very similar in style to his epistle, James felt there were some actions that would display that would help them live a joyful Christian life that reflects Jesus to the world. Very similar to what Paul wrote to the Corinthians.

what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said:

“I will dwell in them

And walk among them.

I will be their God,

And they shall be My people.”

Therefore

“Come out from among them

And be separate, says the Lord.

Do not touch what is unclean,

And I will receive you.”

“I will be a Father to you,

And you shall be My sons and daughters,

Says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:15-18

Though we can never be saved by works, we must remain mindful that the Holy Spirit indwells us and there will be no peace unless we surrender fully to Him and doing so means, our actions will also change. We must remain always mindful of this.

The Conversion of James as Proof of the Gospel Message of Grace

Some critics say that the Epistle of James is too works oriented; yet a brief review of his own journey might cause you to pause and think differently. He too was saved by grace only after the resurrected Christ appeared to him. He too had to learn how to live a Joyful Christian Life. Being saved and bowing to the Lordship of Christ presented a world of great tribulation, so James can speak to that reality. He had rejected Jesus and been ashamed of the ministry of Christ for a long time.

Growing up in the household with Jesus as the 2^nd son of Mary must have had its challenges. After all, Jesus had no sin and therefore was never the son at fault with anything. Maybe his sibling had some resentment there?

Then he with his brothers tried to restrain Jesus believing Him to be crazy.

Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples were not even able to eat. When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” Mark 3: 20-21 (NIV)

Jesus Mocked by His Brothers

Imagine the turmoil of so much publicity, fame, as well as the disdain of the Jewish Priests and elders. We also know James did not believe Jesus was who He proclaimed to be and mocked Him.

After this Jesus went about in Galilee. He would not go about in Judea, because the Jews were seeking to kill him. Now the Jews’ Feast of Booths was at hand. So his brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea, that your disciples also may see the works you are doing. For no one works in secret if he seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world.” For not even his brothers believed in him. John 7:1-5 ESV

What a weight of sorrow as Jesus tried to explain, there would be a day when His brothers would believe.

Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always here. John 7:5 (ESV)

Although their time was always open to embrace Him. But they did not for so long. No wonder James later would want all believers to learn to live a Joyful Christian life with dignity, grace, fearlessly growing in the strength of the Holy Spirit. He had seen so many “false followers” of Jesus, who were not true believers in the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

Then at the Cross—No siblings of Jesus came.

As Jesus hung on the cross, naked, beaten and bleeding, His brothers were not there. It was considered the most shameful form of death.

Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home. John 19:25-27 NKJV

At that point, James, Jude and Josias did not come to the crucifixion. By then they despised Jesus. He had brought dishonor to the family name. How could He have done this to them, at least this is what they thought. Imagine, the scene. Yet, in all the post resurrection appearances of Jesus to the believers, He also appeared to the unbeliever James, His brother as Paul relates to us.

Jesus appears to James

For I handed down to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. I Corinthians 15: 3-8 (NASB)

Imagine turning the corner one day and your brother, whom you thought dead is standing there in front of you. Well, that also is another proof of the reality of the resurrection of Jesus. His brother who believed it all a hoax was later killed for standing firm, unwavering at preaching the truth of the gospel in Jerusalem.

So with Great Credibility James Teaches How to Live a Joyful Christian Life

His is like the Proverbs of the New Testament with quick short admonitions and nuggets of truth. So let’s go back to the beginning.

So, who better to advise us on how to life out this faith we have been so graciously given. It is a joyous thing to grow in faith, to get stronger and bolder. That comes as we face trials and see how wonderfully God brings us through. The farther we walk, the more we can look back and see His hand of grace through it all. Besides that when we do not understand the why for any trial, He is standing ready and willing to help us see His blessing in the midst of our trial.

James goes on to write:

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1: 12 (ESV)

To live a joyful Christian life, we must focus on tomorrow. We have a crown of Glory awaiting us.

Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. James 1:16-18 (ESV)

To Live a Joyful Christian Life There are Pitfalls to avoid

Bridle your tongue

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. James 1: 26-27 (ESV)

Hold fast your anger

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore, put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James 1:19-21 (ESV)

When you humbly remember the words of Jesus implanted in you through the indwelling Holy Spirit bring them to mind you will reflect Jesus to the world. Otherwise, the turmoil leads to your own unhappiness.

Avoid partiality or favoritism

He speaks of not showing partiality to those who have wealth verses the poor when they enter the church.

If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. James 2:8-9 (ESV)

To joyfully live the Christian Life One’s Life Displays their Faith

James urges us to grow in our faith. As we do, our works will naturally flow forth from the Holy Spirit within us. If I see no growth in my thoughts, my love for others, and my deeds, then I need to look within myself and ask—am I saved? If I have no conviction for sin, then has my heart hardened against my Savior? That would be the most miserable place on earth, if He indwells me. Or what if I can watch a movie or show while His name or His glory is cast aside without feeling the pangs of grief, where is my heart truly? He who gave everything for me and loves me more than I could ever conceive of, would my heart not cry when I hear His name so misused? That is what James is trying to say.

You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. James 2:19-23 (ESV)

The works are the outward manifestation of the faith within. They come from the inner workings of the Holy Spirit as we grow and mature in Jesus Christ. This is the point James is trying to get across.

To live a Joyful Christian Life, we need Spiritual Wisdom not Earthly

We hear so many who cry out from a place of pride, believing they know what everyone must follow. They scream this forth as though tolerant of all, while in the end sowing seeds of dissidence. True wisdom only comes from above and is found as we meekly seek God’s truth.

if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:14-18

To Live a Joyful Christian Life: Keep Yours Eyes On Jesus Return

Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. James 5:7-9

When we keep our eyes focused on the Return of Jesus, it is much easier to remain patient with others around us. Also, consider this when we are busy tearing down or judging others—there is very little joy in our own hearts.

And Most Important: Pray, Confess Our Sins, and Pray for Others

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit. James 5: 16-18 (ESV)

There is nothing more healing and more necessary to live a joyful Christian life than to spend time alone with Father in prayer.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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How did Jesus as God Incarnate Endure Tremendous Grief and Joy?

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

How did Jesus as God Incarnate Endure Tremendous Grief and Joy?

For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for life;
Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

As I listened to the Gospel of John this week and thought of its words, I for the first time noticed the depth of grief Jesus endured. Here in this gospel Jesus so clearly presented as God Incarnate. And yet, the perfect righteous Son of God endured such tremendous grief and joy intertwined throughout. That is the life we too are asked to walk here in this broken world. Our grief at moments so great we can hardly bare it. Yet, undergirded by an abiding, steadfast joy built upon His gift of salvation. The gospel of John best presents all these factors intertwined with the clearest picture of Christ as God—the purchaser of salvation-the true Messiah.

John McArthur wrote of the Gospel of John

In accordance with John’s evangelistic and apologetic purposes, the overall message of the Gospel is found in 20:31: “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.” The book, therefore, centers on the person and work of Christ. Three predominant words (“signs,” “believe,” and “life”) in 20:30, 31 receive constant reemphasis throughout the gospel to enforce the theme of salvation in Him, which is first set forth in the prologue (1:1–18; cf. 1 John 1:1–4) and re-expressed throughout the gospel in varying ways (e.g., 6:35, 48; 8:12; 10:7, 9; 10:11–14; 11:25; 14:6; 17:3). In addition, John provides the record of how men responded to Jesus Christ and the salvation that He offered. Summing up, the gospel focuses on: 1) Jesus as the Word, the Messiah, and Son of God; 2) who brings the gift of salvation to mankind; 3) who either accept or reject the offer.

John also presents certain contrastive subthemes that reinforce his main theme. He uses dualism (life and death, light and darkness, love and hate, from above and from below) to convey vital information about the person and work of Christ and the need to believe in Him (e.g., 1:4, 5, 12, 13; 3:16–21; 12:44–46; 15:17–20).

There are also 7 emphatic “I AM” statements which identify Jesus as God and Messiah (6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 9; 10:11, 14; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1, 5).

¹ McArthur, John; The John McArthur Study Bible; Thomas Nelson, Inc.: copyright 2006; page 2155

Tremendous Grief and Joy Combined—in the Beginning

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it….

The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God— children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5,9-14 (BSB)

Have you ever arrived at a great party or visited someone carrying a wonderful gift. You arrived with great anticipation and joy, only to be immediately rejected or criticized. I remember when I first lived in Mexico with my husband. At that time, I was young and attractive. We went to a party and custom was the women and men separated to socialize. I wanted to just be accepted; but all the women saw me as a threat. They assumed my being American meant I was like all the soap operas of immorality. In His humanity, Jesus did face the sorrow of rejection much worse than mine. He carried the gift of life.

Portraits of Grief and Joy in the first Miracle of Christ

there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; and both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus *said to Him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus *said to her, “What business do you have with Me, woman? My hour has not yet come.” John 2:1-4 (NASB)

This is marked as the first miracle. One would wonder why at this point Jesus referenced His mother as woman? Perhaps because as He begins His ministry with this miracle symbolic of His death for the propitiation of sin, He recognized that His mother too was one who would require the gift of salvation He came to purchase.

Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” They filled them up to the brim. And He said to them, “Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.” And they took it. When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom.

And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!” This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. John 2:6-11 (NKJV)

How did this Manifest His Glory and His purpose

The water “pitchers” were not water pitchers. They were large stone water vessels that held between 20 and 30 gallons of water each. These held water used by Jewish ceremony for purifying baths. These were not drinking vessels. These were not pitchers. Christ was presenting the portrait that HE IS THE PURIFYING WATER in which we can be bathed. No longer would there need to be rituals for salvation. He was the lamb who would wash away our sins. The blood and water poured forth from His side.

The wine was symbolic of His blood that was shed for me as Christ would again present at the last supper. The vessels He used symbolized the end of rituals because of grace. The only one who can wash away our sin is God Incarnate—Jesus Christ. Not by works of these guilty hands can I be saved. It is Grace upon Grace revealed. Jesus doesn’t just pour a little cleansing water over me–He baths me in His righteousness; washing away all my sins!!! How amazing is that!!

For Jesus this was a portrait of tremendous grief and joy as He knew all that would still be before Him. His sorrow as He looked at His mother, knowing she would face all this. While at the same moment He knew this was her only hope of eternal joy through the salvation He would purchase on the cross.

To Him the hosts of heaven will sing one day:

You are worthy to take the scroll,

And to open its seals;

For You were slain,

And have redeemed us to God by Your blood

Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, (Rev 5:9 NKJV)

Therefore from the first miracle the story of salvation was told. We too can declare.

knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, … but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. 1 Peter 1:18-19 NKJV

The Holy Spirit carefully guided John in his writing of the gospel so that most clearly we could see Jesus as the Messiah, God Incarnate, who endured tremendous grief and joy. These emotions were blended throughout. In Chapter 3, we see His frustration at seeing His Father’s house being used as a den of thieves. Also, John recorded the fact that as God, Jesus knew what was in the hearts of each person. He was omniscient.

Chapter 3 Explanation of Salvation

Nicodemus came by night to speak with Jesus. He could not come by day because the Pharisees were against the teachings of Jesus. Yet, this one wanted to know the truth. Jesus explained to him that salvation came when one is reborn by the Spirit as the only way for one to be right with God. And that to that end Jesus had come to bring salvation. This must have been a point that brought tremendous grief and joy as Jesus knew so many would not believe; but joy that those who would receive Him would be saved. Here was a Pharisee seeking to know Him, but they were so many blinded though they had studied the word they failed to see what Isaiah had said

He is despised and rejected by men,

A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.

And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him;

He was despised, and we did not esteem Him…

Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him;

He has put Him to grief.

When You make His soul an offering for sin,

He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days,

And the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand.

He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied.

By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many,

For He shall bear their iniquities.

Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His,

And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. Isaiah 53: 3,10-11

A Distinction Noted in the Gospel of John

John’s gospel is noticeably distinct from the other three gospels. In attempting to explain the differences, we should note three factors. (1) Often a discourse follows an incident and discusses the implications of that incident. For example, Jesus’s thirst at Jacob’s well was followed by the discourse on living water (ch.4). And the feeding of the five thousand was followed by the discourse on the Bread of Life (ch.6). (2) In the other gospels the miracles are normally used to reveal Jesus’s power. In John the miracles are usually signs and a message follows each one. (3) John’s purpose is unique, and consequently, so is his interpretation of the life of Jesus.

² Falwell, Jerry, The Liberty Annotated Study Bible, Liberty University, Copyright 1988, page 1602

Throughout we see the tremendous grief and joy of Jesus combined. The rejection He received was more painful because He fully recognized the implication of the eternity of those rejecting Him.

So, I do want to fast forward to when He brought Lazarus back to life and the shortest verse “Jesus wept”.

Tremendous Grief and Joy—where death and life collide emotions

Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.” John 11: 1-3 (NKJV)

They sent a message hoping and believing that Jesus would heal him. They did not realize that Jesus wanted to strengthen their faith before His own crucifixion. Although, He told them what would happen. They did not want to believe or accept that as truth.

When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.” John 11:4-7 (NKJV)

Because He loved them, He waited two days. He knew exactly what He was about to do. Carrying the greatest gift of life to increase their faith, He waited a full three days so that there was no explanation apart from His raising Lazarus from the dead.

Why such tremendous grief and joy

He did bring Lazarus back from the dead. Knowing this why did He weep? I believe that was four-fold. 1. The grief of His friends and those at the grave caused Him to grieve with them. 2. Their inability to understand He is Life itself grieved Him. 3. Just as He raised Lazarus from the dead, He knew there were many who would not be raised to newness of life but rather would be lost for an eternity apart from God in utter darkness of spirit. 4. He was going to the cross and would be buried. At that time, He knew all these His disciples would be utterly distraught. No matter how much He tried to prepare them, they would not understand until He rose again.

Joy also was overwhelming as He knew that He was bringing eternal life to all these He so loved. Punishment for their sins would be placed on His shoulders—the mourning would endure for a time, but Joy would come. If only they could see the night is only temporary.

Preparing His Disciples for Tremendous Grief and Joy

The Gospel of John includes the teaching of Jesus after the Lord’s Supper to His disciples. These are some of the most beautiful verses of the scripture. This was the love of Jesus for His Apostles and disciples spoken forth in words to strengthen through the tough days and years ahead for them.

John 15: 1-11 (NKJV)

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.

Warnings of Tremendous Grief and Joy to Follow

They would face rejection, pain, grief and suffering; but their hope was to hold fast in the joy to come in knowing the truth. Their life was not going to be easy. Joy would be in knowing Jesus as Lord. His words would be their strength. He told them the Holy Spirit would come to be in them and to assist them.

Most assuredly, I say to you that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; and you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy. A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.

“And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16

An Intimate Glimpse of Jesus Conversation with His Father—John 17

Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.

“I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You. For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.

“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

“I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

“Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

Concluding thoughts

Our journey here is preparing us for an eternity of true joy in His presence, surrendered to and surrounded by His Perfect Love. Beyond that, He bids us to discover that abiding, steadfast joy here and now.

None of us would say as we begin this journey of following Christ that we desire suffering. Yet, we are told of Him, the perfect righteous Son of God who is Truth itself; “that He learned obedience through suffering.” (Hebrews 5:8). He, who is equal to God, joint-creator of the universe, and co-designer of this plan of salvation, humbled Himself in obedience to suffering upon this earth. Not that He had ever been disobedient; rather, He learned of the very nature of submission and obedience through His suffering. He who came to die that mankind might be offered salvation free and full, suffered the mockery and ridicule of the very ones He came to save. Humbly, He submitted Himself to ridicule and the empty words of faith from even His followers. So, often, they, as we were more concerned about His gifts than knowing Him.

Yet, God bids us to come to Him, to abide in Him. There we may find rest for our souls and joy for our heart. However, to truly know Him, we must join in His suffering. Yet it is with such patience and tender mercy that He guides us through the suffering. In suffering, we learn to let go of the selfish desires that bind us to this world and keep us from Him.

THE SUFFERING OF CHRIST AND OBEDIENCE

Perhaps Soren Kierkegaard said it best.

Ah! The one who knew all, whose thoughts comprehend all, who needed not to come to the knowledge of anything, because what He knows not does not even exist, of Him is it said that He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.

Christ learned obedience. Indeed, from eternity His will accorded with the Father’s, and He freely chose the Father’s will. But when, as in the fulness of the time, He came, thereupon he learned obedience by the things which He suffered—which He suffered when He came to His own, and they did not know Him, when He went about here in the humble guise of a servant, and bore the weight of God’s eternal plan, and His words were spoken as if in vain, when He, in whom, in whom alone there is salvation, was in the world as something superfluous…when nobody heeded Him, or, what was harder when He aroused the worthless interest of a vagrant curiosity….Even the vinegar was not a drink more sour for the Holy One, than the vacuous interest taken by the idles, and the revolting tribute curiosity accorded Him who The Truth

³ Kierkegaard, Sufferings,

My Mother and My Husband Pete

Both suffered greatly on this earth, battling bi-polar disordered. Yet Mom knew Jesus was her Lord and Savior throughout the years and Pete found Christ before he died.

Now, standing in the presence of God, do you think that Pete would bemoan the suffering he endured upon this earth? Nor would Mom who has finally find the true joy of being in His presence here. Through prayer and reading His word, she is happy for the first time in her life. It has been through the suffering I endured, that I have come to learn of Him. I, too have learned to trust in Him and to let God be God. For it is in learning, through suffering, that His plan is best for me. “the sufferer painfully learns, first, that in spite of all, it is God who ordains, and then goes on to learn in glad obedience, to leave to God to ordain!”4

            Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.  Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds (Hebrews 12:1-3 KJV). is the Truth!”

But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7 NKJV)

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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How Did the Disciples on the Road to Emmaus not know Jesus?

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Reasons We Overflow with Hope—the book of Romans

ROMANS 1 to overflow with Hope

Transformed to Overflow with Hope

This is the overflow of hope that Paul presents so clearly in Romans.

All of Humanity and Creation Doomed Without A Savior

Overflow with Hope because of Justification

Therefore, we overflow with hope.

Furthermore, we overflow with joy because of Redemption

We Overflow with Hope because of Sanctification

And if that were not enough to overflow with joy

Furthermore, God Gave Governance

Therefore, We Overflow with Hope because we Have God’s Hope in Us

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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Transforming Work of the Holy Spirit

Nothing but the Work of the Holy Spirit

Only through the Transformation of the Holy Spirit is True Wisdom

Yet the transforming work of the Holy Spirit requires growth

Actions Showing the Lack of Maturity

The Holy Spirit Indwells You; therefore you are a Temple

Many things to address

The Power is of Christ, not the teacher.

Faith not Works

The Law Cannot Transform a Heart

WHISPERS OF LOVE

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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Life by Grace Free From the Law

Free From the Law to Live a Life of Grace

What Was the Purpose of the Law?

No Need of a Tutor once Free from the law

John Edwards Wrote in his Discourse on the Trinity

Free from the Law—Indwelt with the Holy Spirit to Love

If Free from the law, then what?

Live the Christian Life by Grace, free from the law

Free from the Law, but empowered by the Holy Spirit through Grace

Transformed and made new

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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James Concerning the Gentile Believers

A Letter Sent by James to the Gentiles to Encourage a Joyful Christian Life

Saved by Grace; yet Exemplified by Actions to live a Joyful Christian Life

The Conversion of James as Proof of the Gospel Message of Grace

Jesus Mocked by His Brothers

Then at the Cross—No siblings of Jesus came.

Jesus appears to James

So with Great Credibility James Teaches How to Live a Joyful Christian Life

James goes on to write:

To Live a Joyful Christian Life There are Pitfalls to avoid

To joyfully live the Christian Life One’s Life Displays their Faith

To live a Joyful Christian Life, we need Spiritual Wisdom not Earthly

To Live a Joyful Christian Life: Keep Yours Eyes On Jesus Return

And Most Important: Pray, Confess Our Sins, and Pray for Others

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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John McArthur wrote of the Gospel of John

Tremendous Grief and Joy Combined—in the Beginning

Portraits of Grief and Joy in the first Miracle of Christ

How did this Manifest His Glory and His purpose

To Him the hosts of heaven will sing one day:

Chapter 3 Explanation of Salvation

A Distinction Noted in the Gospel of John

Tremendous Grief and Joy—where death and life collide emotions

Why such tremendous grief and joy

Preparing His Disciples for Tremendous Grief and Joy

John 15: 1-11 (NKJV)

Warnings of Tremendous Grief and Joy to Follow

An Intimate Glimpse of Jesus Conversation with His Father—John 17