The methods of evangelism may change and times change but the task is the same and the basic principles are the same. People-oriented people working with people to reach people. The unfinished task the Lord Himself began, of building a Church, is still going on and we are the tools He is using. The crop is in our field and He has given us all we need to accomplish the task; the power, the gifts and the incentive. The compassion, the intelligence and the will is ours to develop and use.
JOY: CONTRAST JOY AND HAPPINESS. One of the key subjects in the book of Philippians is the subject of JOY.
Ps.4:7; 16:9. Inward joy comes from knowing and trusting God; happiness comes as a result of pleasant circumstances. Inward joy is steady as long as we trust God; happiness is unpredictable. Inward joy defeats discouragement; happiness covers it up. Inward joy is lasting; happiness is temporary.
Mat.5:3-12. Blessed means more that happiness; it means the experience of joy and hope independent of outward circumstances to find hope and joy in following Jesus nor matter what the consequences.
Jn.15:11. Joy comes from a consistent relationship with Jesus Christ. The joy of living with Him daily will keep us level-headed no matter how high or low our circumstances
Lu.1:42-43. Joy takes care of jealousy
Lu.15:30. Heaven has joy when a sinner repents
Rom.4:6-8; Lu.15:30. There is joy in forgiveness; forgiveness changes bitterness to joy
Phil.4:4. Joy in view of the Lord’s return in spite of suffering
