After the resurrection and the Gospel's proclamation, we find joy starting to spread in the Church.
The disciples after Jesus' ascension:
“And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy” (Luke 24:52 NKJV)
The results of Peter's preaching in Acts 2 and the joy of the people:
“So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, (47) praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the Church daily those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:46-47 NKJV)
Philip preaches Christ in Samaria,
“And there was great joy in that city.” (Acts 8:8 NKJV)
The results of Paul and Barnabas preaching to the Gentiles in Antioch
“And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 13:52 NKJV)
Paul and Barnabas heading to Jerusalem for the first General Assembly to discuss if circumcision and keeping the law of Moses was necessary for salvation:
“So, being sent on their way by the Church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren.” (Acts 15:3 NKJV)
4. Why all this joy within the early Church?