The Joy of Salvation

Acts 2:1-4,12-21; Luke 10:20-21

“Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:21

“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” Acts 2:21

Today, we celebrate Pentecost, the day when the promised Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples. The Holy Spirit transformed and empowered them to share the saving message of Christ, bringing the assurance of salvation to all souls. What an immense joy they experienced on that first Pentecost! The once timid and fearful disciples became bold and courageous spokesmen for Christ. They concluded their message with a positive affirmation of universal salvation—a gift not just for themselves, but for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord!

The salvation of the soul represents the pinnacle of joy for Christians, as it surpasses any earthly joy derived from protection, provision, relationships, achievements, and more. This joy is something we experience on earth and will continue to enjoy for eternity. As Paul stated, whether we live or die, if we belong to Christ, we will always partake in this profound joy!

The most joyful aspect of our existence is that when we are saved, our names are written in heaven! Having our names recorded there signifies divine acceptance, which resonates deeply within our consciousness. This is truly a blessed truth that influences every aspect of our lives. Knowing that we are at peace with God and are seen as objects of God’s loving approval transforms our experience from darkness and despair to one filled with light and splendor!

Firstly, we are liberated from the tyranny of sin, allowing us to become true children of God. Moreover, the freedom we gain as children of God not only frees us from sin but also leads us towards God and towards living a life of holiness.

Secondly, within this citizenship in heaven, we also find relief from anxiety. When a person becomes a citizen of heaven, they are freed not only from sin but also from worry. The promise of heaven assures us that by securing the highest good, all lesser goods will be provided for us.

Thirdly, the blessedness of the Christian citizen is the "strong consolation" that is offered during times of adversity and sorrow. Immunity from trials is not one of his privileges; that would not contribute to his true well-being. Just as steel gains its strength through fire, as the most beautiful music emerges from a darkened cage, and as spices must be crushed to release their fragrances, so too are "blessed are those who mourn"; "blessed are those who weep now." Their blessedness is something that those who are always prosperous and perpetually cheerful cannot experience.

Ultimately, the greatest blessing for the Christian citizen goes beyond the wealth and benefits of this earthly life—it is the promise of a life to come. Having one’s name written in heaven signifies the assurance of our eternal place in the skies. Being enrolled in heaven should be our greatest joy! For all rational beings, their highest good should also be their greatest source of joy.

I want to highlight an important point: Take comfort in knowing that your names are written in heaven, for the promise is for anyone who calls on the name of the Lord. I believe that you are among the saved!

Remember the joy of salvation illustrated in the three stories of lost and found in Luke 15: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. Each of these stories represents salvation. The lost sheep is found, the lost coin is found, and the lost son is found. Each narrative conveys the message of a lost soul being brought back to God, forgiven, and blessed. In every case, there is immense joy.

Salvation and celebration go hand in hand, and joy is a fundamental outcome of being reconciled with God. This joy is experienced by everyone involved—God, Christ, the angels, the church, and the redeemed individual. At its core, this joy arises from God's gift of salvation. Every person who is saved should feel this joy. This is why Paul encouraged the Christians in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 with the familiar words, "Rejoice always." Similarly, to the Philippians, he reiterated, "Rejoice always, and again I say rejoice." This is significant because joy and rejoicing are essential aspects of God's saving work.

In conclusion, let’s savor the supreme joy of eternity that surpasses all the joy we have discussed that God provides us with daily - protection, provision, and strength - which constitute our essential daily needs! Ensure that this joy of salvation remains paramount within you. Be careful not to allow any other joy to displace or overshadow it.