Unexpected Jesus (Sermon 7): Unshakeable Joy: The Gift of the Unexpected Jesus
Introduction:
Today, we will be exploring a profound truth that can change the way we live. We’re talking about joy—specifically, the unshakeable joy that Jesus brings. But what makes this joy so special is that it’s often found in the most unexpected places and circumstances. Jesus, the source of our joy, often shows up in our lives in ways we least expect.
Our key passage for today is Philippians 4:4–5 (NLT):
“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.”
The apostle Paul, writing from prison, calls believers to rejoice. This seems unexpected, doesn’t it? How can someone in chains call others to joy? But this is the very nature of the joy we have in Christ—it doesn’t depend on circumstances, and it often comes in the most surprising ways, through the unexpected Jesus.
Today, we’re going to explore how the joy of Jesus often breaks into our lives in unexpected moments, circumstances, and through unexpected people. True joy isn’t dependent on our circumstances, which also means that this joy the Bible speaks of isn’t something that can be taken away.
Point 1: Unexpected Joy in the Lord, Not in Circumstances
Paul says, “Always be full of joy in the Lord.” This is key—our joy is not based on the things we see or experience, but on the Lord Himself. The Greek word used here for "joy" is ?a?? (chara), meaning a deep, abiding gladness rooted in God’s character and His promises.
Let’s be real: We often expect joy to come from good circumstances—when life is easy, when we succeed, when things go our way. But Paul, in prison, shows us that joy in Christ isn’t dictated by external conditions. It’s unexpected because it flourishes even in adversity.
The angels, when they announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, didn’t just bring any news—they brought “good news that will bring great joy to all people” (Luke 2:10, NLT). Imagine that: The Messiah was born in a stable, to a poor couple, in an occupied nation. That’s not where the world expected joy to come from. Yet, the birth of Jesus was the greatest source of joy ever to come to the world.
Unexpected Jesus often brings joy in the most surprising places. You might be looking at a difficult situation today and wondering, "Where is the joy in this?" But let me encourage you—Jesus can bring joy right into the heart of your struggle, just as He brought joy into a humble manger in Bethlehem.
Point 2: Unexpected Joy in Trials
In our trials, we don’t expect joy, do we? Yet, the Bible is clear that trials often produce joy because they refine us. James tells us in James 1:2–3 (NLT):
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.”
Here, we see another unexpected reality: Trials, challenges, and difficulties can be opportunities for joy. The word “tested” here comes from the Greek word d???µ??? (dokimazo), meaning to prove or refine, like gold in a fire. When our faith is refined, joy often springs forth because we see God’s faithfulness in the fire.
Think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. They expected to be thrown into the fire, but they didn’t expect Jesus to join them there! The presence of Jesus in the furnace was the unexpected miracle that protected them and turned a trial into a testimony of God’s glory.
Likewise, when we go through tough times, the Unexpected Jesus shows up in ways we don’t anticipate. It could be in the form of comfort from the Holy Spirit, an encouraging word from a friend, or a peace that passes understanding. Joy often arises when we least expect it, and Jesus is right there with us in the fire.
Point 3: Unexpected Joy That Cannot Be Taken Away
Finally, the joy that Jesus brings is not just unexpected—it’s unshakable. It cannot be stolen, removed, or diminished by anything this world throws at us.
Jesus Himself said in John 16:22 (NLT):
“So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy.”
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples before He went to the cross. They were about to face the darkest moment of their lives—watching their Saviour be crucified. But Jesus promises that after the resurrection, their joy will be restored, and no one would be able to take it away. That’s the kind of eternal joy Jesus offers to all of us.
Imagine a tree planted by the rivers of water, deeply rooted. When storms come, the tree may sway, but it doesn’t break because its roots are deep. That’s the kind of joy Jesus gives us—a joy that is rooted in Him. No storm, no circumstance, no trial can take it away.
This is the joy of the Unexpected Jesus—a joy that comes in places we never thought possible, a joy that endures and grows in trials, and a joy that cannot be taken away.
Conclusion: Jesus, Our Unexpected Joy
What have we learned today?
First, that Jesus often brings joy into our lives in unexpected ways. Whether it’s through surprising moments of grace, comfort in trials, or the unshakable joy of knowing that our salvation is secure, Jesus is the source of a joy that transcends circumstances.
Philippians 4:4–5 tells us to “rejoice in the Lord always.” This is not a superficial joy—it’s a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing Jesus. And it’s a joy that no circumstance, no trial, and no hardship can take away.
Call to Action:
So, how do we respond?
First, we must learn to look for joy in the unexpected places. Don’t just wait for everything to be perfect before you experience joy. Instead, ask the Lord to reveal His joy to you, even in the midst of challenges. Pray for the Unexpected Jesus to show up in your life in ways you don’t expect.
If you’ve never experienced the joy that comes from knowing Jesus, today is the day to meet Him. True joy begins with a relationship with Him. No matter where you are in life, no matter how difficult your circumstances may be, Jesus offers you an unshakable joy.
Invitation to Faith:
Pray with me:
Lord Jesus, I come to You today seeking the joy that only You can give. I confess that I have sought joy in other places, and it has left me empty. But today, I turn to You, the source of true joy. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me new life. Fill me with Your joy, a joy that cannot be shaken by life’s storms. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
