Connect 1 Thessalonians 2:19 with other scriptures about joy in Christian fellowship. A Crown of Joy in Christ’s Presence • 1 Thessalonians 2:19: “For who is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when He comes? Is it not you?” • Paul looks ahead to the Lord’s return and pictures fellow believers as a crown placed on his head—a reward that brings overflowing joy when Christ appears. • Joy here is not abstract; it is bound to real people whose lives have been changed by the gospel. Joy Rooted in Our Shared Salvation • 1 John 1:3-4: “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us… We write these things so that our joy may be complete.” • John 15:11: “I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” • The starting point of fellowship-joy is union with Christ. When we walk in the light together, His own joy fills our gatherings. Joy Sustained by Mutual Encouragement • Philemon 1:7: “Your love… has given me great joy and encouragement, because you have refreshed the hearts of the saints.” • Romans 15:32: “…so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed.” • Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” • Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” • The Spirit keeps joy alive when believers meet, speak life-giving words, and serve shoulder to shoulder. Joy Displayed in Loving Harmony • Psalm 133:1: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” • Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” • Harmony in the body showcases gospel joy to a watching world; shared celebrations and shared sorrows knit hearts closer. Joy Multiplied Through Spiritual Growth • 3 John 4: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” • Philippians 4:1: “Therefore, my brothers… my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord.” • 1 Thessalonians 3:9: “How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we experience before our God because of you?” • Watching brothers and sisters press on in faith turns private gladness into overflowing, public praise. Joy Completed at Christ’s Return • 1 Thessalonians 2:19 circles back to the Lord’s coming. The relationships we nurture now will sparkle forever when Jesus is unveiled. • Revelation 21:3-4 reminds us that God will dwell with us, wipe every tear, and usher in unending rejoicing. • The anticipation of that day fuels present fellowship; every act of love is a preview of eternal celebration. |
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