In this short Advent sermon the preacher reflects on Matthew 1:18–25, Joseph’s faith amid scandal, and how God brings joy in the middle of messy, painful circumstances. Joy is defined not as a fleeting feeling but as deep confidence in God’s presence, character, and promises.
The message points forward to Revelation’s promise of a new heaven and earth, encouraging listeners to hold a joyful hope that God is with us now and will make all things new.
Hope of the Earth - Joy
Matthew 1:18–25
Introduction
- Main Idea: Joy is a deep confidence that God is with us and is making all things new.
Experiencing Joy in Hard Seasons of Life
- Life is filled with Pain and Confusion
- Joseph discovers Mary is pregnant and assumes unfaithfulness.
- Joseph tries to do the right thing while deeply hurt.
- God Meets us in the Dark
- God does not leave us in confusion and shame.
- God joins us working for the hope and peace of the world.
- Because God is at work, we can rejoice even as hardship continues.
- God brings Joy amid Sorrow
- God’s joy does not rest on circumstances but on God’s character, presence, and promises.
- Joy is resting in the truth that, whatever comes, God is with us.
- Joy means entrusting ourselves and our world to the God who will redeem and restore all creation, truly making all things new.
Conclusion: Be a People of Joyful Hope (Revelation 21:1–6)
- Advent invites us to find our joy in the God of Mary and Joseph, who brings life out of apparent dead ends.
- God will dwell with us, wipe away every tear, and make all things new.
- Choose to live as a people of deep, resilient joy—trusting that God is with us now and that the story ends in new creation.
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With Pastor Mike Curry.
