0868. The Joy Set Before

The Joy Set Before

"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" (Heb_12:2).

There are two things we have to say:

1. The joy that was set before Christ. When our Lord came to earth, He came with the Cross standing before Him. Each step He took He neared that hill lone and grey, and its wooden Cross.

And yet, our Lord never wavered. He pressed toward the Cross because He saw beyond it. He saw the joy that was set before Him.

What was His joy? Have you received the Lord Jesus; have you been washed in His Blood? Then you are His joy.

Our Lord looked beyond the Cross and saw a great multitude that no man could number, saved by that Cross–and He was glad.

Our Lord heard their praise, saw them satisfied in His grace–and He was glad.

Our Lord saw the ransomed throngs forever with Him, saw their riches of glory; saw their eternal bliss–and He was glad.

No wonder that our Lord will come with a shout. No wonder that He will joy with singing and rest in His love. He will see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied.

2. The joy set before the saints. Christ said to His disciples in Joh_16:22 : "And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."

We shall have joy. Yes, a joy undimmed and unbroken through all eternity.

What a contrast Isaiah gives: "But He shall appear to your joy and they shall be ashamed" (Isa_66:5, l. c.).

Upon the wicked shall He pour a horrible tempest. This shall be their portion. But the redeemed of the Lord shall come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy.

What fullness of joy will there be in His presence and what songs of gladness forever more!

Let us notice a few helpful passages:

1. The nations will be glad and sing for joy (see Psa_67:4).

2. Israel will rejoice evermore (see Isa_51:11).

3. Jerusalem shall be a joy (see Jer_49:25).

4. Christ will rejoice over His people (see Zep_3:17).

5. Saints will rejoice (see 1Th_2:19).

6. We will be presented with joy (see Jdg_1:24).

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR