god's people are to rejoice evermore (1 Thessalonians 5:16)
Introduction:
1. This morning we showed from the Scriptures that God's people are to live our lives with purpose. 2. Some important instructions are given in 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22 that will help us to live with purpose. 3. In our lesson we are concentrating on the instruction that "God's people are to rejoice evermore." 4. Let us begin our study by showing how . . . Discussion: I. WE HAVE REASON TO REJOICE WHEN WE ARE CONVERTED
A. In Acts we read about many people who were filled with joy when they were converted, including: 1. people in Jerusalem on Pentecost (Acts 2:37-38, 41, 46-47) 2. the eunuch of Ethiopia (Acts 8:35-39) 3. the jailer in Philippi (Acts 16:29-34). B. The Bible shows in 2 Corinthians 5:17 why joy is associated with conversion. II. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US TO MAINTAIN OUR JOY AFTER WE ARE CONVERTED
A. In addition to the verse we read earlier, this principle is taught in: 1. Galatians 5:22-23 -- Joy is one of the nine characteristics that make up "the fruit of the Spirit." 2. Philippians 3:1 -- "Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord." 3. Philippians 4:4. B. Not only does the Bible teach us to be filled with joy, but it also teaches when we are to be filled with joy -- "always" and "evermore." 1. To be more specific, the Bible teaches us to be filled with joy when we undergo trials (James 1:1-2). 2. Thankfully, we have some positive examples in this area, including: a. the apostles (Acts 5:40-41) b. Paul and Silas (Acts 16:25) c. Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-2). C. In addition to teaching us to maintain our joy, . . . III. THE SCRIPTURES TEACH US HOW TO PREVENT LOSING OUR JOY
A. We must put away "the works of the flesh" (Galatians 5:19-21) because they will rob us of joy (Psalm 32:1-5, 11). B. We must practice the Lord's teachings (John 15:10-11). Conclusion:
1. "Joy" [happiness] is certainly an important part of Christianity. 2. We have reason to rejoice when we are converted. 3. We are to maintain our joy after we are converted. 4. By following the guidelines that the Lord has given in His Word we will not lose our joy. 5. As we endeavor to live our lives with purpose, let us do our very best to "rejoice evermore."
