Rev Edward Sirya
27 July 2014
John 16: 16-24
16Jesus went on to say, In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me."
17And this, some of his disciples said to one another, "What does he mean by saying, 'In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,' and 'Because I am going to the Father'?" 18They kept asking, "What does he mean by 'a little while'? We don't understand what he is saying."
19Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, "Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, "In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me'? 20Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. 21A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. 22So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. 23In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 24Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
Joy - Permanent and lasting
Happiness - Based on circumstances
Half of John is a farewell discourse to the last days of Jesus
PROBLEMS OF JOY
--Happiness is mistaken for joy.
--Things we pursue for happiness ultimately fails us.
--CS Lewis - We too easily settle for false joys.
PROMISE OF JOY
--v.22 - It's permanent and can't be taken away.
--Confidence and assurance of the future.
--Given to us by Jesus Christ.
PRACTICE OF JOY
--v.24 - Go to Jesus in prayer.
--Method of identifying with him
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