As a young man Isaac Watts (born 1674) was frustrated with the heartless psalm-singing of his time and sometimes criticized the singing at his church. Listening to his concerns one day, Watts' father challenged him, "Well then, young man, why don't you give us something better to sing?" He rose to the challenge by writing his first hymn. He would write more than 600 songs in his life. The song “Joy To The World” was written as a paraphrase of Psalm 98 about Jesus’ return and was not originally intended to be a Christmas song.
Where is it written?
Compare the lyrics of “Joy to the World” with Psalm 98. How do the themes of the psalm appear in the song?
Key Passages about Jesus’ Return:
Matthew 24 & 25, Mark 13, Luke 21, John 14:1-7, John 21:22, Acts 1:9-11, 1 Corinthians 15:35-58, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, 2 Peter 3:1-18. Revelation (the entire book).
As you read these verses, what do you notice?
How goes your walk?
What are you looking forward to in Jesus’ return? (Make a list.)
What fears do you have about Jesus’ return?
What might your fears reveal about unsurrendered sins, idols or lack of trust in your life?
Daily Worship Ideas:
Participate in an Advent Devotional like the one recommended below in the Bible App.
Read passages such as the above about Jesus’ return. Think and pray about what Jesus’ return will mean.
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