What does it mean to rejoice always (1 Thessalonians 5:16)?

Answer

The directive to “rejoice always” is located in 1 Thessalonians 5:16. To gain a deeper comprehension of what it truly means to rejoice continually, it is essential to consider the command within its surrounding context. This involves grasping the content that precedes and follows the instruction to rejoice always in order to fully grasp Paul’s message to the Thessalonians and to us.

Paul’s main purpose was to urge and console the Thessalonian believers. In 1 Thessalonians 5, he urges them to lead a life that is pleasing to God on a daily basis. He cautions them to be constantly prepared for the return of Christ (verses 4–6). Paul concludes his letter with a list of actions to assist the church in their daily conduct and interactions with one another:

• Comfort and build up one another “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” , (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

• Show respect to all leaders (verses 12–13)

• Admonish the idle, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, and be patient with one another (verse 14)

• Treat everyone with gentleness (verse 15)

• Rejoice always (verse 16)

• Pray without ceasing (verse 17)

• Give thanks in all circumstances (verse 18)

• Do not stifle the Spirit (verse 19)

• Evaluate all teachings (verses 20–21)

• Stay away from every kind of evil (verse 22)

These encouragements serve as a valuable reminder to all followers of Christ. Our situations and emotions should never hinder us from rejoicing, praying, expressing gratitude, showing respect, or behaving kindly.

As we align ourselves with God’s perspective and approach towards others, we are reminded that, as Christians, we can even find joy amidst trials and suffering, following the example set by Christ Jesus, who “for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame” “looking unto Jesus.”The author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” , (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus demonstrated that suffering comes before glory. Jesus’ suffering and resurrection have guaranteed a joyful future for all who have been redeemed. In Christ, we can always rejoice.

Our encouragement to rejoice always is also found in other Scriptures: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” «Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. », (Philippians 4:4). Rejoicing is not merely a suggestion; it is a command, and it is a command that applies at all times. We can continually choose to praise the Lord.

Joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit «But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, », (Galatians 5:22). If we are consistently filled with the Spirit, and the Spirit prompts us to rejoice, then it logically follows that we will always rejoice.

We can rejoice always because of God’s salvation. No one and nothing can snatch away our salvation (see Romans 8:37-39). Those who have faith in Christ are God’s children, and that truth remains unchangeable.

We can rejoice always, even in times of persecution, because we trust in God’s promises. The apostles were arrested and beaten for proclaiming the name of Christ, yet when they left the court, they were “rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name” «And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. », (Acts 5:41).

At 5:41). Obviously, the apostles recalled Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:11–12, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great.” Keeping an eternal perspective enables us to rejoice always.

We can always rejoice, understanding that “the joy of the LORD is your strength” «Then he said to them, ‘Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.’ », (Nehemiah 8:10). We can always rejoice, knowing that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him” «And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose. », (Romans 8:28). We can always rejoice, knowing that “God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable” «For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. », (Romans 11:29). We can always rejoice, knowing that one day we will dwell in the New Jerusalem, see the Lord face to face, and live in perpetual day (see Revelation 22:1-5).

Our rejoicing should be in what the Lord has done, continues to do, and will do in the future, irrespective of our circumstances or feelings. Our hope is in the Lord, for He is our rock and our salvation «He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defence; I shall not be moved. », (Psalm 62:6). This alone is ample reason to rejoice always.