Recognize The Work Of The Father Expectations –...
Recognize The Work Of The Father
Expectations – We all have them
Jews were waiting for the Messiah – He didn’t meet their expectations – missed Him!!
As followers of Jesus, we too must be able to recognize God when He speaks, shows His power, and moves us to action!
1. We must listen to God’s message. Luke 1:26-38
Vs 26 - God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth to talk to Mary for Him!
Vs 30 - Don’t be afraid, you have found favor with God!
Mary had a plan for her life. An expectation of a “normal” life.
Ex. Mission Impossible
God had a mission for that young woman. Could she have said no?
Mary could have walked away and went on with her life…
But she chose to listen.
Your Pastor & church leaders work for God just as Gabriel does!
When they offer you an assignment… you have found favor!
Afraid – Will I fail God?
We can say no. God will find someone else.
But what might happen in me… if I say yes to God’s assignment!
Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
2. We must watch to see the work of God. Luke 2:8-20
Sheep herds near Jerusalem were for temple sacrifices.
These shepherds likely worked for the temple!
Guarded temple lambs…. Host announced to them the arrival of the LAMB OF GOD!
Keeping watch at night…. They were terrified!
Vs. 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared!
Remember the spirit world?
Vs 15- When the angles and host left… what did they do?
Gather at the fire to drink coffee? Went to go see Him in Bethlehem!
Vs 17- When they had SEEN HIM, THEY SPREAD THE WORD!
We must watch to see God’s hand at work.
3. We must respond to the Holy Spirit. Luke 2:25-33
Mary responded by saying yes to God’s mission!
The shepherds responded by going to find the Christ child and then telling everyone about what they saw and heard!
Simeon (righteous & devout) after a lifetime of waiting and hoping now held the Messiah in his arms!
Simeon knew who Jesus was and what it meant to Israel and the world.
But the Priests weren’t listening…
LISTEN WATCH RESPOND
Today, you have HEARD… but have you SEEN?
If so, how will you respond?
You can say NO!
But what might happen IN YOU, if you say YES!