“Rejoicing in the Lord”
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Categories: Moment With The Master
"Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord." (Philippians 3:1) For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh," (Philippians 3:3)
Joy in the Lord is a thread that runs through this entire letter. In the immediate context the word "rejoice" is used twice in the New King James version. Actually the word is translated from two separate Greek words: "chaírō" (vs.1) and "kaucháomai" (vs.3). Though the words are different in meaning, they are connected and application.
To rejoice in the Lord is an emphatic command. The Lord is the object of our delight and gladness, for he is our preserver, our redeemer, and our friend. Another common theme in the letter is to rejoice in the Lord regardless of the various circumstances of life: in affliction and poverty, as well as in health and wealth.
Disciples rejoice in the Lord is because of his moral excellence and refreshing fellowship. This relationship is a foretaste of eternity with God. This is a command that is as necessary as repentance and baptism. To break it is to sin. To be happy in the Lord is a moral obligation.
Whereas the evil workers that Paul referred to here trusted in themselves for relationship with God, the true disciples "rejoice" ("kaucháomai") not in themselves, but in the Lord. They boast not in observing rites and ordinances. They have no confidence in the flesh, but in the Savior who redeems them from sin.
Jesus, not personal performance, is grounds for boasting in our salvation. True disciples glory in Him, and for he is their intercessor, advocate, and atonement. Without him they would be nothing, but wretched souls.
So how does "chaírō" (vs.1) connect with "kaucháomai" (vs.3)? Simple. The first is ("chaírō" ) is the result of our fellowship with God. The latter, ("kaucháomai" ) relates to how this relationship is established. So, put your confidence in the Lord and find delight in that relationship, and one day the joy will be made full in eternity.
By George Slover
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