Joy in the City

As the gospel began to be preached, many souls heard and obeyed it. Even the great persecutions could not slow down the spread of the gospel. Many believed Philip as he preached in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8).

At Antioch in Pisidia, Paul and Barnabas brought the gospel to the Gentiles that were there. The unbelieving Jews were envious, but the Gentiles heard it and believed. Thus, the word of the Lord was being spread throughout the region (Acts 13:42-52).

As the gospel came to Thessalonica, many became followers of the Lord when they heard it. From there, the word sounded forth in every place (1 Thessalonians 1:5-8).

In each of the preceding texts, there was much joy in the city! There is obviously a correlation between the gospel spreading and joy being fulfilled. John expressed that correlation: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth (3 John 1:4).” The word of God is truth (John 17:17), and when it is heard, believed, and obeyed, there is great joy! As the word of God spreads and more souls are added to the Lord, joy increases.

Do you have great joy? Are you spreading the gospel? Have you obeyed the gospel yourself? Remember, “…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance (Luke 15:7).”