One of the many characteristics a Christian demonstrates is joy because Jesus Christ is the greatest source of joy. But even for some Christians, their joy can be circumstantial instead of being rooted in Christ himself. Circumstantial or worldly joy is unstable and has its ups and downs depending on what surrounds the person. However, the joy of the Lord is steady and always present in any circumstance. In today’s text, Jesus was with the seventy-two disciples to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and their joy is expressed when they are given the power and authority to subdue the evil spirits.
The joy of the disciples is genuine. When even the demons are subject to Jesus’ name, they do not pride themselves in the ability to do so but give glory to Christ because it was only done by using his name. Throughout Scripture, God’s name is lifted on high and praised highly. When the disciples used Jesus’ name and depended on it to exorcise demons, they were elated to be given the task of casting out demons while sharing the gospel.
God’s permanent protection from Satan’s schemes gives joy to the disciples. God empowered and allowed the disciples to use Christ’s name over all the power of the enemy (v 19). In other words, it is important to understand the power of Jesus’ name. Not only did Jesus give them authority over all the power of the enemy, but he also guaranteed that nothing would injure them. They were able to walk on snakes and scorpions but without harm. What this implies is that Christians are protected by God in the midst of Satan’s schemes that will lead them to the pits of hell. Outside of the seventy-two being sent, Christians in general are protected from eternal punishment. Moreover, God eternally protects Christians as they are ultimately able to rest in heaven forever.
Christians have inner joy as they have their names recorded in heaven. Without this, Christians easily build on something that will crumble and their sanctification cannot even be achieved. Jesus himself is the author of the Book of Life that is in heaven.
To be written in the Book of Life means that every Christian is precious to God. Without the sovereignty of God, there is no life. God gives kingdom citizenship to those who are in the Book of Life as well. Heaven’s citizens are merely passing through this life to be used by God for his purpose and heading home for eternity. Lastly, those whose names are in the Book of Life have been elected by God before the foundation of the world.
How can Christians be assured that their names are written in the Book of Life? When Christians have genuinely repented and believe in their hearts that Jesus Christ is Lord and that God raised him from the dead (Ro. 10:9). In addition, having a desire to be more like Christ is not something sinners are able to do on their own, but by God. There is no justification without ongoing sanctification. In other words, is sanctification a top priority and concern in one’s life? Moreover, true Christians demonstrate their true faith through their obedience and prayer as it is the expression of love for God.
The greatest joy is understanding the wonder of salvation. Without this understanding, all other joys are temporal and circumstantial. But as Christians know the Lord Jesus personally and knowing where they’re headed is the greatest joy anyone can possess. God sent his one and only Son to die for sinners who would repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ to be used by him for his glory.
BIBLE COMMUNITY CHURCH 
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