Expository Thoughts On Luke - Luke 1:39-45
J.C. Ryle emphasizes the vital spiritual blessing found in the fellowship between believers, as exemplified by Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, showing how mutual encouragement strengthens faith and leads to joyful praise.
In this expository sermon, J.C. Ryle explores the profound spiritual benefits of fellowship between believers as illustrated by Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. He highlights how such communion, empowered by the Holy Spirit, uplifts hearts and leads to joyful praise. Ryle encourages Christians to seek God’s presence and to regularly engage in mutual encouragement, emphasizing that shared joy strengthens faith and reflects heavenly fellowship.
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MARY VISITS ELIZABETH
We should observe in this passage, the benefit of fellowship and communion between believers. We read of a visit paid by the Virgin Mary to her cousin Elizabeth. We are told in a striking manner how the hearts of both these holy women were cheered, and their minds lifted up by this interview. Without this visit, Elizabeth might never have been so filled with the Holy Spirit, as we are here told she was; and Mary might never have uttered that song of praise which is now known all over the Church of Christ. The words of an old divine are deep and true--"Happiness communicated doubles itself. Grief grows greater by concealing--joy by expression."
We should always regard communion with other believers as an eminent means of grace. It is a refreshing break in our journey along the narrow way to exchange experience with our fellow travelers. It helps us insensibly and it helps them, and so is a mutual gain. It is the nearest approach that we can make on earth to the joy of heaven. "As iron sharpens iron, so does the countenance of a man his friend." We need reminding of this. The subject does not receive sufficient attention, and the souls of believers suffer in consequence. There are many who fear the Lord and think upon His name, and yet forget to speak often one to another. (Malachi 3:16.) First let us seek the face of God. Then let us seek the face of God\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Blessing of Fellowship
- Mary’s visit to Elizabeth as a model of Christian fellowship
- Mutual encouragement uplifts the hearts of believers
- Fellowship as a means of grace and spiritual refreshment
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II. The Role of the Holy Spirit
- Elizabeth filled with the Holy Spirit during the visit
- Spiritual insight and joy come through God’s presence
- The Spirit’s work leads to praise and worship
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III. The Power of Expressed Joy
- Happiness communicated doubles itself
- Joy grows by expression and sharing
- Concealed grief increases sorrow
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IV. Practical Lessons for Believers
- Seek the face of God first
- Regularly seek fellowship with other believers
- Encourage one another to strengthen faith
Key Quotes
“Happiness communicated doubles itself. Grief grows greater by concealing--joy by expression.” — J.C. Ryle
“We should always regard communion with other believers as an eminent means of grace.” — J.C. Ryle
“It is the nearest approach that we can make on earth to the joy of heaven.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Make it a priority to seek fellowship with other believers regularly for mutual spiritual encouragement.
- Express your joy and faith openly to strengthen both your own spirit and those around you.
- Begin every fellowship with seeking God’s presence to ensure it is a true means of grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is fellowship important according to this sermon?
Fellowship is important because it refreshes believers, encourages mutual growth, and is a means of grace that strengthens faith.
How does the Holy Spirit feature in Mary and Elizabeth’s interaction?
The Holy Spirit filled Elizabeth during Mary’s visit, enabling spiritual insight and joyful praise.
What does J.C. Ryle say about expressing joy?
He teaches that expressing joy doubles happiness, while concealing grief only increases sorrow.
What practical advice does the sermon offer for believers?
Believers should seek God’s presence first and then seek fellowship with others regularly to encourage one another.
What biblical passage is central to this sermon?
Luke 1:39-45 is central, describing Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and the spiritual blessings that followed.