The Departure of Jesus - Pt. 4
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | September 10 2024 | John 16:20-24
KEY VERSE:
²¹ “When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers her anguish, for the joy that a human being has been born into the world.²² So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” John 16:21-22 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
The previous discussions in this series focused on events before Christ’s resurrection, but now we shift to the joy that follows it. Before we explore the rejoicing of God’s people, let’s consider: Did the world rejoice when it had the opportunity? It did—just as Matthew 27:32-44 reveals. The world mocked and taunted Jesus, from robbers to chief priests.
The excruciating pain of childbirth as we are told is tough but short-lived. In the same way, after Christ’s resurrection, the situation changed dramatically, turning the sorrow of His followers into joy, based on undeniable evidence. The joy brought by the resurrection is clear:
In Matthew 28:8-10, despite a mixture of emotions, the disciples’ gloom was replaced with joy and worship.
Mary Magdalene’s clinging to Jesus in John 20:17 is a vivid sign of joy, especially considering she had been weeping just moments before.
Jesus had assured them that no one would take away their joy. Even in Acts 5:41, after being beaten and warned, the apostles rejoiced because they were counted worthy to suffer for His Name. How remarkable is this joy! Likewise, Paul, writing from prison, repeatedly encourages believers to rejoice (Philippians 4:4).
We must continue to encourage one another to rejoice, even in hardship. Like the Psalmist in Psalms 42 and 43, we need to remind our own souls not to be downcast but to keep hope alive.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
God’s word is true and sure. If you're going through a tough time, remember that joy is near. Bring God into the situation, and trust His timing.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me to understand that the pains of life and ministry do not last forever. Give me the grace to go to every length for the sake of Your Name. Amen
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: ANGUISH The word "anguish" in John 16:21-22 is derived from the Greek word θλῖψις (thlipsis), which refers to intense pressure, distress, or tribulation. It conveys the idea of a deep, overwhelming emotional or physical pain, often associated with suffering under extreme circumstances.
In John 16:21-22, "anguish" is used metaphorically, describing the intense pain a woman experiences during childbirth. Jesus uses this imagery to explain the disciples' impending sorrow at His crucifixion. Just as a woman experiences anguish before the joy of new life, the disciples will undergo intense emotional suffering during Jesus' death. However, this anguish will turn into joy when Jesus is resurrected, just as a mother forgets her pain once her child is born. The temporary nature of their anguish is contrasted with the lasting joy that follows. Reflections: We may experience moments of deep pain before God's greater joy is revealed. In what ways can you trust God's promise of joy in the midst of anguish, knowing He will bring transformation through your pain?
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