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The birth of Jesus Christ is a central event in Christian theology, symbolizing the fulfillment of prophecies and the arrival of the Messiah. The phrase "Joy to the World" is often associated with Christmas, but its origins are rooted in the Old Testament, particularly Psalm 98, which celebrates God's reign and the joy of His salvation. The prophetic writings of Isaiah also contribute to the joyous sentiment, as seen in Isaiah 9:6, which announces the birth of a child who will bring great joy and hope to the world. This phrase encapsulates the spirit of Christmas and the message of the birth of Jesus, inviting listeners to celebrate the joy of Christ's reign.
The popular Christmas song "Joy to the World" by Isaac Watts celebrates the joyful occasion of the Lord's coming. But the lyrics were never intended to be a Christmas song. They were a poem by Watts based on Psalm 98, which is a psalm of the second coming of the Lord who "comes to judge the earth" (verse 9). Jesus' purpose in His first coming was not to judge but to save (John 3:17); still, celebrating the King in His lowliness is appropriate. Jesus brought joy to the world in His first coming to earth as a baby, and He will bring joy to the world when He comes again to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev 19:16).
The wait for God's promised Messiah, expressed in passages such as Isaiah 59:20, is over. The angels announced His arrival with great fanfare. No greater honor could befall the children of Adam than that their Creator had come to redeem them from Satan's stranglehold (1 John 5:19–20). So, although our earthly life may be filled with troubles, we have reason for hope. Because Jesus came the first time and is poised to come the second time, we can sing with conviction, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her king!"
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