BRBC Bible Notes
Week by week, we post notes based on the theme of the Sunday service, so that people can follow them in their own personal devotions, in prayer triplets, or in the church life groups.
Bible Study 16: Fourth Sunday in Advent – Joy
Main Theme: Joy
Key Passages: Luke 2:10–11; Psalm 16:11; Nehemiah 8:10
Purpose of the Study
This study is designed to:
Encourage believers to embrace the joy that comes from Christ’s birth.
Strengthen understanding of spiritual joy as a fruit of God’s presence, not circumstances.
Challenge the church to cultivate and share joy in everyday life.
Opening Prayer
“Lord, fill our hearts with the joy of Your coming. Help us to celebrate Your presence, live in gratitude, and spread Your joy to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
1. Read the Passages
Invite participants to read Luke 2:10–11, Psalm 16:11, and Nehemiah 8:10 aloud. Ask the group to reflect on the source and expression of true joy.
2. Context and Summary
Advent celebrates the anticipation and arrival of Christ. Joy is a central theme, rooted in the knowledge that God has come to redeem and restore. Spiritual joy is not dependent on circumstances but flows from God’s presence, promises, and faithfulness. This joy transforms hearts, uplifts communities, and motivates acts of worship and service.
3. Key Themes and Reflections
A. Joy in God’s Salvation
The angels announce joy at Christ’s birth, proclaiming good news for all people.
Reflection Question: How does recognising God’s salvation bring lasting joy?
Quote: “Joy begins where God’s redemption is received.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Luke 2:10–11 – Do not be afraid; I bring you good news of great joy.
Isaiah 61:10 – I will rejoice in the Lord.
B. Joy as God’s Presence
True joy comes from God’s presence, which fills life with meaning and hope.
Reflection Question: In what ways do you experience God’s presence bringing joy today?
Quote: “Joy is the echo of God’s nearness in the soul.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Psalm 16:11 – In God’s presence is fullness of joy.
John 15:11 – That My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
C. Joy Amid Challenges
Spiritual joy can coexist with difficulty because it is rooted in God, not circumstance.
Reflection Question: How can we cultivate joy even when life is challenging?
Quote: “Joy does not depend on the absence of trials but on the presence of God.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
James 1:2–3 – Consider it pure joy when facing trials.
Nehemiah 8:10 – The joy of the Lord is your strength.
D. Joy Expressed in Community
Joy grows when shared in worship, fellowship, and acts of service.
Reflection Question: How can we spread God’s joy within our church and community?
Quote: “Joy multiplies when it is shared.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Philippians 4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord always.
Romans 12:15 – Rejoice with those who rejoice.
4. A Word to the Church: Be a Joyful People
The church is called to reflect Christ’s joy, celebrating God’s presence and sharing hope with the world.
Challenge: Are we cultivating joy in our hearts, homes, and ministries, even in difficult times?
Group Discussion:
Share an experience when God’s joy uplifted you or someone else.
How can we intentionally encourage joy in our community during Advent?
5. A Call to Action: Live Joyfully
Identify one way to express or share God’s joy this week.
Pray for God to fill your heart with joy that overflows to others.
Closing Scripture Meditation
Nehemiah 8:10 – “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Final Prayer
“Lord, thank You for the gift of joy through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Fill our hearts with gladness, sustain us in trials, and help us to share Your joy with everyone around us. May our lives reflect Your glory this Advent season and always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
For a printable version of this, and previous editions, please click here.
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