“The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 11:15).

“Joy to the World” was written by Isaac Watts, known for saturating his lyrics with Scripture and Biblical doctrines. The final verse deals with our Lord’s eternal reign over the earth following His return to Earth the second time. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love.

The apostle John, who wrote much about Jesus Christ’s glorious second coming, knew Him and loved Him at His first coming. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).

His reign over the earth will be received with joy by those who remain. “O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth” (Psalm 67:4). God the Father has ordained this righteous reign of Christ. “Unto the Son He saith, Thy throne, of God, is for ever and ever: a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy Kingdom” (Hebrews 1:8).

This present world, with all its reminders of sin and death is not acceptable for such a kingdom. It “shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat. Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein in dwelleth righteousness” (II Peter 3:12,13).

All that has gone on before gives us confidence that what He has promised will surely come to pass. When? We don’t know, but “be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh” (James 5:8). And then, finally, there will be true “Joy in the World.” JDM