John 15:11 These things have I spoken to you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. The greatest of sufferers was the happiest of men. He exulted in the prospect of Gethsemane and the Cross. I. HIS OWN JOY. It was the joy — 1. Of uninterrupted communion with the Father (John 4:31, 32). 2. Of accomplishing His Father's will (Hebrews 10:7; Psalm 40:6; Luke 22:41). 3. Of anticipating the result of His great work (Isaiah 13:11; Hebrews 12:2). II. THE BELIEVER'S PARTICIPATION IN THE JOY. 1. It is the Saviour's joy. Is it possible to have this? Yes; we may partake of the joys of fellowship, obedience, hope. Present service is ours, and future victory will be. 2. It is a joy that may be full, or fulfilled. A man has joy as soon as he becomes a believer, but it is not filled up. Jesus wishes it to be, and puts into his hand a cup of joy which overflows. It is a paradox; but the Christian, though sorrowful, is always rejoicing (2 Corinthians 1:3-6; 2 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Philippians 2:17; Philippians 4:4). 3. It is a joy which none can take away (John 16:22). It is not in the power of the world to rob a Christian of his joy. (T. Stephenson.) Parallel Verses KJV: These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. |
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