Joy | A Bible Class on the Works of the Flesh and the Fruit of the Spirit

The second component of the Spirit’s fruit Paul mentioned is joy. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Gal 5:22-23).

What is joy?

How does the Spirit produce joy in our lives? Why is joy important in the Christian’s life? What reason(s) does the Christian have for joy? Why do some Christians not have joy? What would you say to a Christian who has no joy?

God has promised joy for his people. “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Ps 16:11). “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (Jn 15:11). “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Rom 14:17).

Why would god promise joy to his people? Why would God want his people to be joyful?

Jesus promised the disciples would have joy when they saw him resurrected. “Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy” (Jn 16:20). Why would the disciples rejoice at the Resurrected Christ? Why do we rejoice at the Resurrected Christ?

The salvation of the lost brings joy. Luke 15:3-7. Acts 15:3. Why does salvation of the lost bring joy? Why do some Christians not find joy in the repentance of sinners? How can we find more joy in the repentance of sinners?

Our own salvation brings joy. Acts 8:5-6. Acts 8:39. Why does our own salvation bring joy? How does the Spirit produce joy over our own salvation?

This Bible class was originally taught by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., at Church of Christ Deer Park in Deer Park, Texas.