1. Joyless Christianity is an issue
* The reason that joyless Christianity is an issue, is because we’ve been commanded to joy.
* The essence of our religion isn’t obedience, the essence of our faith is joy.
* Joyless Christianity is basically saying that the Lord has given me nothing to be joyful about.
2. Biblical Joy is based on circumstances
* Biblical Joy is circumstantial and active: In Hebrew thought, joy (root שָׂמַח / samach, with noun simchah appearing ~93–94 times in the OT) is a response to real events—festive, outward delight tied to God's acts (e.g., festivals in Deut. 16:15 commanding rejoicing over deliverance and provision).
3. Advent reminds us of the reasons for unparalleled joy
* Truth 1: God created us for his glory
* Truth 2: We have a duty to live for the glory of God
* Truth 3: We all have failed to glorify God as we should
* Truth 4: All of us are subject to the condemnation of God
* Truth 5: God in his mercy sent his Son, Jesus to save us from our sins
* Truth 6: The benefits purchased by the death of Christ belong to those who repent and trust him
How do we deal with Joyless Christianity?
* Confess and don’t seek to hide our current state, acknowledge where your heart is at.
* Pray to God earnestly to restore to you the joy of your salvation
