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Luke

Unmet Expectations: When God Doesn’t Act How We Want

Speaker

Pastor Troy Ingersoll

Date Published


Scripture: Luke 7:18–35

Topic: Dealing with Doubt, God's Sovereignty, and Spiritual Expectations

I. Announcements & Kingdom Impact

  • Lottie Moon Offering: The church goal was $1,500. Through the generosity of the congregation and an anonymous donor, the total given to the IMB was $4,320.
  • Samaritan’s Purse: Shared the story of Isabella from Romania, who received a snow globe in a shoebox during the communist era—a specific answer to her prayer.
  • Will Graham Tour: Reported on the "Sunshine State Good News Tour." Despite rain, over 10,000 attended and 490 made decisions for Christ.
  • Local Outreach:
    • Please continue to distribute the bags for the homeless located in the back.
    • January Collection: Warm weather items (hats, scarves, mittens) for the community.
    • Deacon Update: Congratulations to Bob Ramsey on his extended term.

II. Introduction: A Heavy Start to the New Year

  • The World Context: Pastor Troy addressed the breaking news regarding conflict in Venezuela and the mobilization of troops.
  • Call to Prayer: The church paused to pray specifically for:
    • Protection over the men and women in the Navy, Army, Coast Guard, and Marines.
    • Wisdom for national leaders (President, Vice President, and cabinet members) during this crisis.
  • The Theme of Expectations: Just as world events can shift overnight, our personal lives often face unmet expectations. This sets the stage for the questions John the Baptist asked Jesus.

III. The Doubt of John the Baptist (Luke 7:18-23)

  • The Question: John is in prison. Despite previously baptizing Jesus and seeing the heavens open, his current circumstances lead him to doubt. He sends messengers to ask, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"
  • Jesus’ Response: Jesus does not give a simple "Yes." Instead, He continues His work.
    • He cures diseases, casts out spirits, and gives sight to the blind.
    • He points John back to Scripture (Isaiah 35:5-6 and Isaiah 61:1).
  • The Lesson: Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of the Messiah, even if He didn't fulfill John's immediate expectation of a political conqueror who would free him from prison.
  • Application: When we face setbacks (health issues, financial plateaus, family struggles), we often question God. We must remember that God’s plan often looks different than our personal roadmap.

IV. Greatness in the Kingdom (Luke 7:24-28)

  • Defending John: After the messengers leave, Jesus addresses the crowd to ensure they don't lose respect for John.
  • Not a Reed Shaken by the Wind: John was not weak or wavering. He was not a man of luxury in fine clothes. He was a prophet—and more than a prophet.
  • The Paradox: Jesus states that among those born of women, none is greater than John. Yet, the one who is least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he. This emphasizes that our standing is based on our position in God's Kingdom, not our earthly accolades.

V. The Parable of the Marketplace Children (Luke 7:31-35)

  • The Illustration: Jesus compares that generation to children playing games in the market who refuse to be pleased.
    • “We played the flute, and you didn't dance” (Happy/Wedding game).
    • “We sang a dirge, and you didn't cry” (Sad/Funeral game).
  • The Criticism:
    • John the Baptist: Came fasting and ascetic (no bread/wine), and they called him a demon.
    • Jesus (The Son of Man): Came eating and drinking with sinners, and they called Him a glutton and a drunkard.
  • The Truth: You cannot satisfy a critical spirit. Religious legalists (Pharisees) wanted to dictate the terms of their service to God. They rejected God’s purpose because it didn't fit their box.
  • Modern Application: We often judge others' walk with God (e.g., how they rest, how they work) based on our own preferences. We must stop dictating terms to God and start submitting to His.

VI. Church Expectations for the New Year

  • Looking Back: 2025 saw physical improvements (roof, gutters, tree removal) and spiritual growth (new members, visitors).
  • Looking Forward (2026):
    • Physical: Concrete work, bathroom fixtures, steeple installation, and the new church sign.
    • Spiritual/Outreach: "Mustard Seed" ministry, community mailers, and continued partnership with Jason Fletcher’s college ministry.
  • The Goal: We are like a ship. Without a destination and expectation, we are just floating. We must set our course to reach our community.

VII. Conclusion

  • The Challenge: Identify one person this week who does not know Christ. Do not feel pressured to convert them immediately, but commit to praying for them consistently for the next few months.
  • The Table: The service concluded with the Lord's Supper, reminding us that while our earthly expectations may falter, the blood of Christ is the one expectation that never fails.
  • Celebration: Happy 92nd Birthday to Gene!

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