How does Isaiah 35:10 describe the joy of the redeemed in Christ? “and the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee.” Snapshot of the Redeemed’s Joy • Return to Zion – a homecoming to the presence of God. • Singing – spontaneous, overflowing worship. • Crowned with everlasting joy – joy is their permanent identity. • Joy and gladness will overtake them – joy is dominant, unavoidable. • Sorrow and sighing will flee – every trace of pain permanently banished. Exploring Each Phrase • “The redeemed of the LORD” – Refers to those bought back by God’s own action (Ephesians 1:7). – In Christ, redemption is accomplished (1 Peter 1:18-19). • “Will return and enter Zion with singing” – Isaiah pictures exiles coming home; in Christ we are brought to “Mount Zion… the city of the living God” (Hebrews 12:22-24). – The response is worship, not mere relief—our voices rise because our hearts are full. • “Crowned with everlasting joy” – Joy replaces earthly crowns; it is permanent, not seasonal (John 16:22). – A crown speaks of honor and victory secured by Christ’s triumph (2 Timothy 4:8). • “Joy and gladness will overtake them” – Joy is not tentative; it overtakes, surrounds, and carries the redeemed (Psalm 23:6). – Gladness is the prevailing atmosphere of God’s kingdom (Romans 14:17). • “Sorrow and sighing will flee” – Final removal of pain echoes Revelation 21:4: “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” – What Christ bore on the cross, His people never bear again (Isaiah 53:4). New Testament Echoes of Isaiah 35:10 • Luke 15:20-24 – the father’s celebration at the prodigal’s return mirrors Zion’s welcome. • John 14:3 – Jesus prepares a place so the redeemed may “return” to be with Him. • Revelation 19:6-7 – heaven’s loud worship fulfills the promise of songs that fill Zion. Living in This Joy Now • The Holy Spirit gives a present foretaste—“the fruit of the Spirit is… joy” (Galatians 5:22). • Trials cannot cancel it; they refine it (1 Peter 1:6-8). • Our gatherings foreshadow Zion’s chorus, encouraging one another with hope (Colossians 3:16). Looking to the Future Fulfillment • Christ’s return consummates the promise; sorrow’s final flight is guaranteed (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). • Everlasting joy is not wishful thinking; it is the secured inheritance of every believer (1 Peter 1:4). |
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