“Joy to the World” is one of the most familiar Christmas carols we sing, but few stop to consider what we are actually declaring. Written as a meditation on Psalm 98, it is a bold announcement that the King has come, salvation has been accomplished, and the world is being restored.

In this sermon from Psalm 98, we see why joy is commanded—not because life is easy, but because God has acted. The Lord has revealed His salvation, the redeemed are called to respond with praise, and even creation itself rejoices because the righteous King is coming to set all things right.

Jesus Christ has entered a cursed world, borne the curse at the cross, and risen in victory, guaranteeing that sin, sorrow, and death will not have the final word.