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When was the joy revealed?

Submitted: 5/19/2010
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Question: Hebrews 12:2 says, '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.' I believe that the joy that was set before him happened at the garden (Luke 22:43). It says that an angel came strengthening Jesus. I am not saying this is chronological, but it seems to have happened at a certain time. What do you think?

Answer: I would say that this is speaking of the joy of the resurrection. Long before He was crucified, Jesus was aware that after His passion He would enter the 'joy of the Lord.' Certainly having this knowledge gave Him the courage to face the suffering, since He knew that death would not be the end. Perhaps the angels strengthened Him by reminding Him of the joy He would soon be experiencing when He walked out of that tomb and took His first steps in resurrection life. I know that I'll be feeling some joy when I do it.