Topical Bible: Joy

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Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Nature:
Joy, in the biblical context, is a profound and abiding sense of happiness and contentment that is rooted in spiritual realities rather than temporal circumstances. It is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and is often associated with the presence and favor of God. Unlike fleeting happiness, biblical joy is enduring and can be experienced even in the midst of trials and suffering.

Old Testament Understanding:
In the Old Testament, joy is frequently linked to God's deliverance and blessings. The Hebrew word for joy, "simchah," appears in various contexts, including religious festivals, victories in battle, and the worship of God. For example, Nehemiah 8:10 states, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." This verse highlights the sustaining power of divine joy in the lives of God's people.

The Psalms are replete with references to joy, often in connection with worship and the presence of God. Psalm 16:11 declares, "You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Here, joy is depicted as a result of communion with God.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, joy is closely associated with the coming of Jesus Christ and the salvation He brings. The Greek word "chara" is used to describe the joy that believers experience through their relationship with Christ. The announcement of Jesus' birth was heralded as "good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10), signifying the profound impact of the Savior's arrival.

Jesus Himself spoke of joy in His teachings, emphasizing its divine origin and permanence. In John 15:11, He said, "I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete." This indicates that true joy is found in abiding in Christ and His love.

The Apostle Paul frequently wrote about joy, even amidst his own sufferings. In Philippians 4:4, he exhorts believers, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This command underscores the idea that joy is a choice and a response to God's goodness, independent of external circumstances.

Joy in the Christian Life:
For Christians, joy is both a gift and a discipline. It is a gift because it is a result of the Holy Spirit's work within the believer. Romans 15:13 expresses this beautifully: "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Joy is also a discipline, as believers are called to cultivate it through gratitude, worship, and trust in God's promises. James 1:2-3 encourages believers to "consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." This perspective transforms trials into opportunities for growth and deeper joy.

Eschatological Joy:
The Bible also speaks of an eschatological joy, a future and ultimate joy that will be fully realized in the presence of God. Revelation 21:4-5 describes a time when "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This promise of eternal joy provides hope and encouragement for believers as they navigate the challenges of this life.

In summary, biblical joy is a deep-seated sense of well-being that arises from a relationship with God, sustained by the Holy Spirit, and is both a present reality and a future hope for believers.

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

1. (n.) The passion or emotion excited by the acquisition or expectation of good; pleasurable feelings or emotions caused by success, good fortune, and the like, or by a rational prospect of possessing what we love or desire; gladness; exhilaration of spirits; delight.

2. (n.) That which causes joy or happiness.

3. (n.) The sign or exhibition of joy; gayety; mirth; merriment; festivity.

4. (n.) To rejoice; to be glad; to delight; to exult.

5. (v. t.) To give joy to; to congratulate.

6. (v. t.) To gladden; to make joyful; to exhilarate.

7. (v. t.) To enjoy.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

JOY

joi (simchah; chara):

1. Terms:

The idea of joy is expressed in the Old Testament by a wealth of synonymous terms that cannot easily be differentiated. The commonest is simchah (1 Samuel 18:6, etc.), variously translated in English Versions of the Bible "joy," "gladness," "mirth"; from sameah, properly "to be bright," "to shine" (Proverbs 13:9, "The light of the righteous rejoiceth," literally, "is bright"), but generally used figuratively "to rejoice," "be glad" (Leviticus 23:40 and very frequent).

Other nouns are masos and sason, both from sus, properly "to spring," "leap," hence, "exult," "rejoice"; rinnah, "shouting." "joy"; gil, from verb gil or gul, "to go in a circle," hence, "be excited" (dancing round for joy), "rejoice." In the New Testament, far the commonest are chara, "joy," chairo, "to rejoice" (compare charis, "grace"). But we have also agalliasis, which expresses "exuberant joy," "exultation" (not used in classical Greek, but often in the Septuagint; in the New Testament, Luke 1:14, 44 Acts 2:46; Jude 1:24; Hebrews 1:9), and the corresponding verb agalliaoo (-aomai), "to exult," "rejoice exceedingly" (Matthew 5:12, etc.). In English Versions of the Bible we have sometimes "to joy" (now obsolete as a verb), used in an intransitive sense = "to rejoice" (Habakkuk 3:18 2 Corinthians 7:13, etc.).

2. In the Old Testament:

Besides joy in a general sense, as the response of the mind to any pleasurable event or state (1 Kings 1:40 Esther 8:17, etc.), joy as a religious emotion is very frequently referred to in the Old Testament. Religion is conceived of as touching the deepest springs of emotion, including the feeling of exultant gladness which often finds outward expression in such actions as leaping, shouting, and singing. Joy is repeatedly shown to be the natural outcome of fellowship with God. "In thy presence is fullness of joy; in thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore" (Psalm 16:11; compare 16:8, 9). God is at once the source (Psalm 4:7; Psalm 51:12) and the object (Psalm 35:9 Isaiah 29:19) of religious joy. The phrase "rejoice (be glad) in Yahweh" and similar. expressions are of frequent occurrence (e.g. Psalm 97:12; Psalm 149:2 Isaiah 61:10 Zechariah 10:7). Many aspects of the Divine character call forth this emotion, such as His lovingkindness (Psalm 21:6, 7; Psalm 31:7), His salvation (Psalm 21:1 Isaiah 25:9 Habakkuk 3:18), His laws and statutes (Psalms 12; 119 passim), His judgments (Psalm 48:11), His words of comfort in dark days (Jeremiah 15:15, 16). The fundamental fact of the sovereignty of God, of the equity of the Divine government of the world, gives to the pious a joyous sense of security in life (Psalm 93:1; Psalm 96:10; Psalm 97:1) which breaks forth into songs of praises in which even inanimate Nature is poetically called upon to join (Psalm 96:11-13; Psalm 98:4-9). In the case of those who held such views of God, it was natural that the service of God should elicit a joyous spirit ("I will offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy," Psalm 27:6; compare 1 Chronicles 29:9), a spirit which is abundantly manifest in the jubilant shouting with which religious festivities were celebrated, and the trumpet-sound which accompanied certain sacrifices (2 Samuel 6:15 Psalm 33:1-3 Numbers 10:10 2 Chronicles 29:27), and especially in psalms of praise, thanksgiving and adoration (Psalms 47; 81; 100, etc.). "Rejoice before Yahweh your God" is an oft-repeated phrase in Deuteronomy with reference to the sacrificial feast (e.g. 12:12). But joy is a Divine, as well as a human, emotion; for God Himself is represented in the Old Testament, not as a rigid, impassible Being, but as susceptible to pleasure and pain. God may be conceived of as "rejoicing in his works" (Psalm 104:31; compare Genesis 1:31), and over His people "for good" (Deuteronomy 30:9). "He will rejoice over thee (Zion) with joy; he will rest in his love; he will joy over thee with singing" (Zechariah 3:17). Such noble and vivid anthropomorphisms are a nearer approach to the truth than the abstract doctrine of the impassibility of God which, owing to Platonic influences, dominated theology of the early Christian centuries.

3. In the New Testament:

The element of joy in religion is still more prominent in the New Testament. It is the appropriate response of the believer to the "good tidings of great joy" which constitute the gospel (Luke 2:10). In the four Gospels, especially Luke, this element is conspicuous. It is seen in the canticles of Luke 1 and 2. It is both exemplified in the life and character, and set forth in the teaching of Jesus. There are many intimations that, in spite of the profound elements of grief and tragedy in His life, His habitual demeanor was gladsome and joyous, certainly not gloomy or ascetic: such as, His description of Himself as bridegroom, in defense of His disciples for not fasting (Mark 2:18-20); the fact that He came "eating and drinking," giving occasion to the charge that He was "a gluttonous man and a winebibber" (Matthew 11:19); His "rejoicing in the Holy Spirit" (Luke 10:21); the fact that His presence was found to be congenial at social festivities (Mark 14:3 Luke 14:1 John 12:1), and at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1); His mention of "my joy" (John 15:11; John 17:13). His teaching with reference to His followers harmonizes with this. The Christian virtues confer on those who attain them not only beatitude, a calm and composed state of felicity (Matthew 5:3-11), but also a more exuberant state of joy, which is in sharp contrast to the "sad countenance" of the hypocrites (Matthew 6:16) ("Rejoice, and be exceeding glad", Matthew 5:12). This spirit is reflected in many of the parables. The discovery of the true treasure of life brings joy (Matthew 13:44). The three parables in Luke 15 reveal the joy of the Divine heart itself at the repentance of sinners (see especially 15:5-7, 9, 10, 22-24, 32). The parable of the Talents lays stress on the "joy of the Lord" which is the reward of faithfulness (Matthew 25:21, 23). Jesus confers on His followers not only peace (John 14:27; John 16:33), but participation in His own fullness of joy (John 15:11; John 16:24; John 17:13), a joy which is permanent, in contrast to the sorrow which is transient (John 16:22). In the dark days of disappointment that succeeded the crucifixion, the joy of the disciples passed under a cloud, but at the resurrection (Luke 24:41) and still more on the day of Pentecost it emerged into light, and afterward remained a marked characteristic of the early church (Acts 2:46; Acts 8:39; Acts 13:52; Acts 15:3). Paul speaks of joy as one of the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) and of "joy in the Holy Spirit" as an essential mark of the kingdom of God (Romans 14:17). This joy is associated with faith (Philippians 1:25), hope (Romans 5:2; Romans 12:12), brotherly fellowship and sympathy (Romans 12:15 2 Corinthians 7:13 Philippians 2:1 f). To rejoice in the Lord is enjoined as a Christian duty (Philippians 3:1; Philippians 4:4; compare 2:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16). In Christ, the Christian "rejoices with joy unspeakable and full of glory" (1 Peter 1:8), in spite of his temporary afflictions (1 Peter 1:6). Christian joy is no mere gaiety that knows no gloom, but is the result of the triumph of faith over adverse and trying circumstances, which, instead of hindering, actually enhance it (Acts 5:41 Romans 5:3; James 1:2, 12; James 5:11 1 Peter 4:13; compare Matthew 5:11, 12). Even our Lord Himself "for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame" (Hebrews 12:2).

D. Miall Edwards

Greek

20. agalliasis -- exultation, exuberant joy
... exultation, exuberant joy. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: agalliasis
Phonetic Spelling: (ag-al-lee'-as-is) Short Definition: exultation ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/20.htm - 7k

5479. chara -- joy, delight
... joy, delight. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: chara Phonetic Spelling:
(khar-ah') Short Definition: joy, gladness Definition: joy, gladness, a ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5479.htm - 7k

2167. euphrosune -- gladness
... gladness. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: euphrosune Phonetic Spelling:
(yoo-fros-oo'-nay) Short Definition: joy, gladness Definition: joy ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2167.htm - 7k

21. agalliao -- to exult, rejoice greatly
... rejoice greatly. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: agalliao Phonetic Spelling:
(ag-al-lee-ah'-o) Short Definition: I exult, am full of joy Definition: I ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/21.htm - 7k

4640. skirtao -- to leap
... to leap. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: skirtao Phonetic Spelling:
(skeer-tah'-o) Short Definition: I leap for joy Definition: I leap (for joy), skip ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4640.htm - 6k

3685. oninemi -- to profit, help
... to profit, help. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: oninemi Phonetic Spelling:
(on-in'-ay-mee) Short Definition: I help, profit, have joy of Definition: I ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3685.htm - 6k

5463. chairo -- to rejoice, be glad
... S. Zodhiates (, 1467) likewise comments that 5479 ("joy") and 5485 ("grace") are
cognate with 5463 ("to rejoice"), ie all share the same and therefore () . ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5463.htm - 10k

2744. kauchaomai -- to boast
... 3), boasts (2), exult (3), glory (2), take pride (1). boast, glory, joy,
rejoice. From some (obsolete) base akin to that of aucheo ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2744.htm - 8k

2130. eumetadotos -- ready to impart
... [The prefix () "emphasizes the nuance either of liberality, or the ease, promptitude,
and joy with which one makes one's wealth useful to (cf. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2130.htm - 7k

5051. teleiotes -- a completer, finisher
... Heb 12:2: "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the 747 and (5051 ) of the (operation of)
(4102 ), who in place of (473 ) joy set before Him, endured a cross (4716 ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5051.htm - 7k

Strong's Hebrew

8643. teruah -- a shout or blast of war, alarm, or joy
... 8642, 8643. teruah. 8644 . a shout or blast of war, alarm, or joy. Transliteration:
teruah Phonetic Spelling: (ter-oo-aw') Short Definition: shout. ...
/hebrew/8643.htm - 6k

2304. chedvah -- joy
... joy. Transliteration: chedvah Phonetic Spelling: (khed-vaw') Short Definition: joy.
Word Origin from chadah Definition joy NASB Word Usage joy (2). gladness, joy ...
/hebrew/2304.htm - 6k

8057. simchah -- joy, gladness, mirth
... 8056, 8057. simchah. 8058 . joy, gladness, mirth. Transliteration: simchah
Phonetic Spelling: (sim-khaw') Short Definition: joy. ...
/hebrew/8057.htm - 6k

2305. chedvah -- joy
... 2304, 2305. chedvah. 2306 . joy. Transliteration: chedvah Phonetic Spelling:
(khed-vaw') Short Definition: joy. Word Origin (Aramaic ...
/hebrew/2305.htm - 6k

26. Abigayil -- "my father is joy," two Israelite women
... 25, 26. Abigayil. 27 . "my father is joy," two Israelite women. Transliteration:
Abigayil Phonetic Spelling: (ab-ee-gah'-yil) Short Definition: Abigail. ...
/hebrew/26.htm - 6k

3164b. Yachdiel -- "God gives joy," a Manassite
... 3164a, 3164b. Yachdiel. 3165 . "God gives joy," a Manassite. Transliteration:
Yachdiel Short Definition: Jahdiel. Word Origin from ...
/hebrew/3164b.htm - 5k

3165. Yechdeyahu -- "may Yah give joy," two Israelites
... Yechdeyahu. 3166 . "may Yah give joy," two Israelites. Transliteration: Yechdeyahu
Phonetic Spelling: (yekh-dee-yaw'-hoo) Short Definition: Jehdeiah. ...
/hebrew/3165.htm - 6k

7442. ranan -- to give a ringing cry
... 7441, 7442. ranan. 7443 . to give a ringing cry. Transliteration: ranan Phonetic
Spelling: (raw-nan') Short Definition: joy. Word Origin a prim. ...
/hebrew/7442.htm - 6k

7440. rinnah -- a ringing cry
... Word Origin from ranan Definition a ringing cry NASB Word Usage cry (12), joy (2),
joyful shout (1), joyful shouting (9), joyful singing (1), rejoice (1 ...
/hebrew/7440.htm - 6k

7321. rua -- to raise a shout, give a blast
... cry aloud (1), crying (1), jubilant shouting (1), raise your battle cry (1), raised
a war cry (1), raised the war cry (1), shout (9), shout for joy (1), shout ...
/hebrew/7321.htm - 6k

Library

Joy
... JOY. These Things Have I Spoken Unto You, That My Joy May Be in You, and
That Your Joy May Be Fulfilled"John 15..11. If any one ...
/.../murray/the true vine meditations for a month on john 151-16/joy.htm

Joy
... 6. The application of redemption 8. Joy. 'The fruit of the Spirit is joy.'
Galatians 5:52. The third fruit of justification, adoption ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/8 joy.htm

The Joy of the Lord.
... The Joy of the Lord. IT is written "the joy of the Lord is your strength." Every
child of God knows in some measure what it is to rejoice in the Lord. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/the joy of the lord.htm

Joy in Believing
... THE FIRST EPISTLE OF PETER JOY IN BELIEVING. 'In Whom, though now ye see
Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture ephesians peter/joy in believing.htm

The Joy-Bringer
... THE JOY-BRINGER. 'To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them
beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/the joy-bringer.htm

The Consecration of Joy
... THE BOOK OF LEVITICUS THE CONSECRATION OF JOY. 'And the Lord spake unto Moses,
saying, 34. Speak unto the children of Israel, saying ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the consecration of joy.htm

The Joy of the Cross
... The Joy of the Cross. Long plunged in sorrow, I resign My soul to that dear hand
of thine,. ... Unknown delights are in the cross,. All joy beside to me is dross; ...
/.../the joy of the cross.htm

Harvest Joy
... Harvest Joy. A Sermon (No.2265). Intended for Reading on Lord's-day, July 17th,
1892,. Delivered by. CH SPURGEON,. At the [28]Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/harvest joy.htm

Joy in Believing.
... JOY IN BELIEVING. JOY IN BELIEVING. 7,7,8,7,8,7,8,7. ... Death itself does not destroy;
Yes, to live, and love forever,. Is our heritage of joy! ...
/.../borthwick/hymns from the land of luther/joy in believing.htm

The Joy of the Lord
... THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH THE JOY OF THE LORD. 'The joy of the Lord is your
strength.'"Nehemiah 8:10. Judaism, in its formal and ceremonial ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/the joy of the lord.htm

Thesaurus

Joy (422 Occurrences)
... 2. (n.) That which causes joy or happiness. 3. (n.) The sign or exhibition of joy;
gayety; mirth; merriment; festivity. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. JOY. ...
/j/joy.htm - 48k

Shouts (34 Occurrences)
... Ezra 3:13 so that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from
the noise of the weeping of the people; for the people shouted with a loud ...
/s/shouts.htm - 15k

Exult (50 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (vi) To be in high spirits; figuratively, to leap for
joy; to rejoice in triumph or exceedingly; to triumph; as, an exulting heart. ...
/e/exult.htm - 20k

Exultation (10 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The act of exulting; lively joy at success or victory,
or at any advantage gained; rapturous delight; triumph. ...
/e/exultation.htm - 9k

Exulting (14 Occurrences)
... 2 Corinthians 7:4 Great is my boldness towards you, great my exulting in respect
of you; I am filled with encouragement; I overabound in joy under all our ...
/e/exulting.htm - 10k

Sighing (22 Occurrences)
... Hebrews 13:17 Be obedient to those leading you, and be subject, for these do watch
for your souls, as about to give account, that with joy they may do this ...
/s/sighing.htm - 13k

Sounds (64 Occurrences)
... king's son come out, and put the crown on him and the arm-bands, and made him king,
and put the holy oil on him; and they all, making sounds of joy with their ...
/s/sounds.htm - 26k

Cries (116 Occurrences)
... Galatians 4:27 For it is in the Writings, You who have never given birth, be glad;
give cries of joy, you who have had no birth-pains; for the children of her ...
/c/cries.htm - 34k

Melody (55 Occurrences)
... Genesis 31:27 Why did you make a secret of your flight, not giving me word of it,
so that I might have sent you away with joy and songs, with melody and music? ...
/m/melody.htm - 24k

Meaningless (32 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). Ecclesiastes 2:1 I said in my heart, I will give you joy for a test;
so take your pleasure--but it was to no purpose. (See NIV). ...
/m/meaningless.htm - 15k

Resources

How can I find joy in the midst of trials? | GotQuestions.org

Is there a difference between joy and happiness? | GotQuestions.org

How can I experience joy in my Christian life? | GotQuestions.org

Joy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus

Concordance

Joy (422 Occurrences)

Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Matthew 5:12
Be joyful and triumphant, because your reward is great in the Heavens; for so were the Prophets before you persecuted.
(Root in WEY BBE)

Matthew 13:20
What was sown on the rocky places, this is he who hears the word, and immediately with joy receives it;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Matthew 13:44
"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found, and hid. In his joy, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Matthew 18:13
And if he comes across it, truly I say to you, he has more joy over it than over the ninety-nine which have not gone out of the way.
(BBE)

Matthew 25:21
"His lord said to him,'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Matthew 25:23
"His lord said to him,'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Matthew 28:8
They departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring his disciples word.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Mark 4:16
These in like manner are those who are sown on the rocky places, who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with joy.
(WEB WEY ASV BBE DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 1:14
You will have joy and gladness; and many will rejoice at his birth.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 1:28
So Gabriel went into the house and said to her, "Joy be to you, favoured one! the Lord is with you."
(WEY)

Luke 1:42
and uttered a loud cry of joy. "Blest among women are you," she said, "and the offspring of your body is blest!
(WEY)

Luke 1:44
For behold, when the voice of your greeting came into my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy!
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 1:58
And it came to the ears of her neighbours and relations that the Lord had been very good to her, and they took part in her joy.
(BBE NIV)

Luke 2:10
The angel said to them, "Don't be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 6:23
Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven, for their fathers did the same thing to the prophets.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 8:13
Those on the rock are they who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; but these have no root, who believe for a while, then fall away in time of temptation.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 10:17
The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!"
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 10:21
On that same occasion Jesus was filled by the Holy Spirit with rapturous joy. "I give Thee fervent thanks," He exclaimed, "O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that Thou hast hidden these things from sages and men of understanding, and hast revealed them to babes. Yes, Father, for such has been Thy gracious will.
(WEY BBE NIV)

Luke 13:17
And when he said these things, those who were against him were shamed, and all the people were full of joy because of the great things which were done by him.
(BBE)

Luke 15:5
And when he has got it again, he takes it in his arms with joy.
(BBE NIV)

Luke 15:7
I tell you that even so there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Luke 15:10
Even so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner repenting."
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Luke 15:24
For this, my son, who was dead, is living again; he had gone away from me, and has come back. And they were full of joy.
(BBE)

Luke 19:6
He hurried, came down, and received him joyfully.
(Root in WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS RSV)

Luke 24:41
While they still didn't believe for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Do you have anything here to eat?"
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 24:52
They worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 3:29
He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. This, my joy, therefore is made full.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 4:36
He who does the cutting now has his reward; he is getting together fruit for eternal life, so that he who did the planting and he who gets in the grain may have joy together.
(BBE)

John 8:56
Your father Abraham was full of joy at the hope of seeing my day: he saw it and was glad.
(BBE)

John 15:11
I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 16:20
Most certainly I tell you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 16:21
A woman, when she gives birth, has sorrow, because her time has come. But when she has delivered the child, she doesn't remember the anguish any more, for the joy that a human being is born into the world.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 16:22
Therefore you now have sorrow, but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 16:24
Until now, you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be made full.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 17:13
But now I come to you, and I say these things in the world, that they may have my joy made full in themselves.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

John 20:20
Having said this He showed them His hands and also His side; and the disciples were filled with joy at seeing the Master.
(WEY NIV)

Acts 2:26
And for this cause my heart was glad and my tongue full of joy, and my flesh will be resting in hope:
(BBE)

Acts 2:28
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
(KJV BBE DBY WBS YLT NIV)

Acts 2:46
And day by day, going in agreement together regularly to the Temple and, taking broken bread together in their houses, they took their food with joy and with true hearts,
(BBE)

Acts 7:41
And they made the image of a young ox in those days, and made an offering to it, and had joy in the work of their hands.
(BBE)

Acts 8:8
There was great joy in that city.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT RSV NIV)

Acts 8:39
And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord took Philip away; and the Ethiopian saw him no more, for he went on his way full of joy.
(BBE)

Acts 12:14
When she recognized Peter's voice, she didn't open the gate for joy, but ran in, and reported that Peter was standing in front of the gate.
(WEB WEY ASV BBE DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Acts 13:52
The disciples were filled with joy with the Holy Spirit.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Acts 14:17
and yet by His beneficence He has not left His existence unattested--His beneficence, I mean, in sending you rain from Heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and joyfulness."
(Root in WEY BBE NIV)

Acts 15:3
They, being sent on their way by the assembly, passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles. They caused great joy to all the brothers.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

Acts 15:23
And they sent a letter by them, saying, The Apostles and the older brothers, to the brothers who are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, may joy be with you:
(BBE)

Acts 16:34
And he took them into his house and gave them food, and he was full of joy, having faith in God with all his family.
(BBE NIV)

Acts 20:24
But these things don't count; nor do I hold my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to fully testify to the Good News of the grace of God.
(WEB KJV WBS YLT)

Romans 5:2
Through whom, in the same way, we have been able by faith to come to this grace in which we now are; and let us have joy in hope of the glory of God.
(BBE)

Romans 5:3
And not only so, but let us have joy in our troubles: in the knowledge that trouble gives us the power of waiting;
(BBE)

Romans 5:11
And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
(KJV BBE WBS)

Romans 12:8
He who has the power of comforting, let him do so; he who gives, let him give freely; he who has the power of ruling, let him do it with a serious mind; he who has mercy on others, let it be with joy.
(BBE)

Romans 12:15
Take part in the joy of those who are glad, and in the grief of those who are sorrowing.
(BBE)

Romans 14:17
for the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 15:10
And again he says, Take part, you Gentiles, in the joy of his people.
(BBE)

Romans 15:13
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 15:32
that I may come to you in joy through the will of God, and together with you, find rest.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Romans 16:19
For all have knowledge of how you do what you are ordered. For this reason I have joy in you, but it is my desire that you may be wise in what is good, and without knowledge of evil.
(BBE NIV)

1 Corinthians 7:30
And for those who are in sorrow, to give no signs of it; and for those who are glad, to give no signs of joy; and for those who are getting property, to be as if they had nothing;
(BBE)

1 Corinthians 12:26
And if one part is suffering, every other part suffers with it; or if one part is receiving special honor, every other part shares in the joy.
(WEY)

1 Corinthians 13:6
She finds no pleasure in injustice done to others, but joyfully sides with the truth.
(Root in WEY BBE)

1 Corinthians 16:17
It is a joy to me that Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus have now arrived, because what was wanting so far as you are concerned they have supplied.
(WEY)

2 Corinthians 1:24
Not that we have lordship over your faith, but are fellow workers with you for your joy. For you stand firm in faith.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

2 Corinthians 2:3
And I wrote this very thing to you, so that, when I came, I wouldn't have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy would be shared by all of you.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

2 Corinthians 7:4
Great is my boldness of speech toward you. Great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I overflow with joy in all our affliction.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

2 Corinthians 7:7
and not by his coming only, but also by the comfort with which he was comforted in you, while he told us of your longing, your mourning, and your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced still more.
(See NIV)

2 Corinthians 7:13
Therefore we have been comforted. In our comfort we rejoiced the more exceedingly for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV)

2 Corinthians 7:16
It gives me great joy to see you answering to my good opinion of you in every way.
(BBE)

2 Corinthians 8:2
how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

2 Corinthians 13:9
and it is a joy to us when we are powerless, but you are strong. This we also pray for--the perfecting of your characters.
(WEY)

Galatians 4:27
For it is written, "Rejoice, thou barren woman that bearest not, break forth into a joyful cry, thou that dost not travail with child. For the desolate woman has many children--more indeed than she who has the husband."
(Root in WEY BBE)

Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 1:4
always in every request of mine on behalf of you all making my requests with joy,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 1:25
Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 2:1
If then I can appeal to you as the followers of Christ, if there is any persuasive power in love and any common sharing of the Spirit, or if you have any tender-heartedness and compassion, make my joy complete by being of one mind,
(WEY)

Philippians 2:2
make my joy full, by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind;
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 2:17
Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.
(KJV ASV BBE WBS YLT NAS)

Philippians 2:18
For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
(KJV ASV BBE WBS YLT NAS)

Philippians 2:29
Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy, and hold such in honor,
(WEB WEY ASV BBE DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my brothers, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philippians 4:10
But I rejoice with a deep and holy joy that now at length you have revived your thoughtfulness for my welfare. Indeed you have always been thoughtful for me, although opportunity failed you.
(WEY)

Colossians 1:11
strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, for all endurance and perseverance with joy;
(WEB KJV ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Colossians 1:24
Now I can find joy amid my sufferings for you, and I fill up in my own person whatever is lacking in Christ's afflictions on behalf of His Body, the Church.
(WEY BBE)

Colossians 2:5
For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
(Root in KJV ASV BBE WBS YLT)

1 Thessalonians 1:6
You became imitators of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

1 Thessalonians 2:8
Seeing that we were thus drawn affectionately towards you, it would have been a joy to us to have imparted to you not only God's Good News, but to have given our very lives also, because you had become very dear to us.
(WEY)

1 Thessalonians 2:19
For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Isn't it even you, before our Lord Jesus at his coming?
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

1 Thessalonians 2:20
For you are our glory and our joy.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

1 Thessalonians 3:9
For what thanksgiving can we render again to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sakes before our God;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

1 Thessalonians 5:16
Be always joyful.
(Root in WEY BBE NIV)

2 Timothy 1:4
longing to see you, remembering your tears, that I may be filled with joy;
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philemon 1:7
For we have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Philemon 1:20
Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Lord.
(WEB KJV ASV BBE WBS)

Hebrews 1:9
You have been a lover of righteousness and a hater of evil; and so God, your God, has put the oil of joy on your head more than on the heads of those who are with you.
(BBE NIV)

Hebrews 10:6
You had no joy in burned offerings or in offerings for sin.
(BBE)

Hebrews 10:34
For you both had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you have for yourselves a better possession and an enduring one in the heavens.
(Root in WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Hebrews 12:2
looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch on behalf of your souls, as those who will give account, that they may do this with joy, and not with groaning, for that would be unprofitable for you.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Subtopics

Joy

Joy in Heaven

Joy in Sufferings

Joy is a Fruit of the Spirit

Joy is Strengthening to Saints

Joy of Angels, when Jesus Was Born

Joy of Angels, when Sinners Repent

Joy of Barnabas, when he Saw the Success of the Gospel at Antioch (In Syria)

Joy of David, Over the offerings of the Princes and People for the House of God

Joy of Deborah and the Israelites, when Sisera Was Overthrown

Joy of Early Christians, when They Believed in Jesus