JOY OF LIVING IN CHRIST

JOHN 15:11–15

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full”

(John 15:11).

Having just exhorted the disciples to abide in Him and to return His love with steadfast obedience, Jesus goes on to explain in an even more intimate fashion their connection to Himself. First, He explains that it is only through abiding in Him that we will find true joy, not the kind of joy that the world gives, but the joy of Christ. If we want true, substantial happiness in life, we cannot have it outside of a relationship with Christ. It is only through faith in Him and through conformity to His will that we can find lasting joy. It is easy to forget this fact as we sometimes search for meaning, significance, and happiness in earthly things. But temporary objects cannot fill our hearts with joy. Only Christ can do that.

Next, Jesus elaborates on the necessity of internal obedience in the life of His disciples. He says that we are to love one another as He has loved us. Of course, we can never love perfectly as Christ does, but that is not the point. Jesus is emphasizing the sacrificial nature of His love. We are to love one another in a self-denying manner. We are to put the feelings, concerns, and cares of others above our own. It is only when we love with such a love that we will find true joy and happiness. If you discover that you are not really a joyful person, the problem might be that you are not abiding in Christ and displaying the kind of self-sacrificial love to others that Jesus describes in this passage.

Lastly, Jesus does not lay down His life for just anyone. He lays down His life for His friends. This is great love indeed! Jesus looks upon His people, not as servile slaves, obeying out of mere duty and fear, but rather as friends, as objects of His love and affection. Think about it: if you are a Christian, Jesus loved you so much that He laid down His life for you. He does not consider you a mere subject in His kingdom, a servant at His table, but a friend who sits by His side in glory, who receives honor and respect by the King of kings. You have been adopted into His family, you have been brought into the fold of His protecting love, and He has purchased your life by His death and secured your inheritance. Such is the glorious love of Christ!

CORAM DEO

Proverbs 3–4

1 Corinthians 14:1–20

Consider for a few moments as you read over today’s passage what it means to be loved and befriended by the eternal and most holy God. How should you include this aspect of being a Christian in a Gospel presentation? In your own words, describe how the relationship that Christians have with Christ is fully satisfying.

For further study: Rom. 12:9–13; 14:14–23 • 1 John 3:10–24

thursday

september