Weekly Pulpit John 15:11 These things have I spoken to you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. I. ITS SOURCE. "These things have I spoken unto you." He referred them especially to what He had just said. Union with Christ. "I am the Vine," etc. 1. To be one with Christ is to enjoy the peace of God. 2. To be one with Christ is to walk in the right path — the path of truth, virtue, and honour. He is the Way. 3. To be one with Christ has its prospects. The crown is beyond the Cross. "Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you." II. ITS CONTINUANCE. "That My joy may remain in you." The promise implies a state of heart which is never without sources of joy. Christians are subject to natural and moral grief; but when the clouds obscure the light and make the atmosphere cold, the sun is, nevertheless, in the heavens. Christian joy is perpetual, because — (1) Jesus is the same, yesterday, today, and forever, without change. The streams never dry while the fountain is full. (2) Intercommunion never fails. He has ordained means which are infallible. This is a bold saying; but as the sun cannot fail to give life, the promise cannot fail to give comfort, prayer cannot fail to bring the blessing, and the communion of saints cannot fail to generate love. III. ITS EXPANSIVENESS — "That your joy might be full." The growth of the child, or the increased light of the sun until the perfect day, or the journey of the pilgrims Zion-ward, represents the advancing state of grace. (1) Full in respect of its object. We have only touched the hem of His garment as yet. As faith is turned into sight, our joy increases. (2) Full in respect of the subject. It is possible only when all fear of sin and death is removed. "Rejoice evermore"; that is, rejoice on to rejoicing, for sources of anxiety are left behind, and you and Christ are one. (Weekly Pulpit.) Parallel Verses KJV: These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. |
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