Christ’s Joy

~ 5 Word Pictures of Jesus Christ ~

Jesus Christ has supreme joy in saving sinners.  Here are five images of His saving work.

As a Shepherd Over His Sheep (Individual Believers) ~  “So He [Jesus Christ] spoke this parable to them, saying:  ‘What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?  And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.  And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!”  I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance’” (Luke 15:3-7).

As a Buyer Obtaining Treasure (His Chosen People)  ~  Jesus in the Parable of the Hidden Treasure said, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field” (Matthew 13:44). 

As a Merchant Obtaining a Priceless Jewel  (His Church) ~  Jesus in the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price said, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:45-46). 

As a Bridegroom Over His Bride (All His Believers)  ~  “For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). 

As a Reaper Over His Sheaves (His Restored Chosen People)  ~  “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.  He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:5-6).  This Psalm refers to the remnant of Israel returning to their land after their Babylonian captivity.  It is also prophetic looking forward to their restoration to their Messiah when Jesus Christ returns. 

the key question: “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). This is the most important question you will ever answer. If you do not answer it, or answer it incorrectly, you have made the biggest mistake anyone can make!

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW