How can we align our expectations with God's plan, as seen in Acts 1:6? The Question of Restoration: Acts 1:6 “So when they came together, they asked Him, ‘Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?’” What We Learn from the Disciples’ Expectation • They expected a political kingdom, right then. • Their longing was sincere, yet it was narrower than God’s global, spiritual plan announced in Acts 1:8. • Jesus did not rebuke the desire for the kingdom; He redirected their timing and focus (Acts 1:7-8). Recognizing the Gap Between Our Plans and God’s Plan • God’s timetable is sovereign: “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority.” (Acts 1:7) • Our knowledge is partial (1 Corinthians 13:9); His purpose is complete (Isaiah 46:10). • Scripture is always reliable and literal—yet its fulfillment unfolds according to His wisdom, not our predictions (Numbers 23:19). Steps to Align Our Expectations with God’s Plan • Wait for God’s timing - Habakkuk 2:3: “Though it lingers, wait for it; it will surely come.” - Acts 1:4: the disciples were told to “wait for the promise of the Father.” • Seek the Spirit’s power and leading - Acts 1:8: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” - John 16:13: the Spirit guides “into all truth.” • Anchor hopes in the full biblical picture of the kingdom - Luke 17:21: the kingdom is “in your midst.” - Revelation 11:15: the kingdom will be publicly manifest. • Prioritize obedient mission over speculative timing - Matthew 28:19-20: make disciples of all nations. - Acts 1:8: be Christ’s witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” • Trust God’s character when details are hidden - Romans 8:28: all things work together for good to those who love God. - Psalm 145:13: “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Filter every expectation through explicit Scripture. • Surrender personal deadlines; God’s calendar is perfect. • Stay filled with the Spirit for clarity and courage. • Invest energy in gospel witness—God’s revealed priority. • Celebrate the already-present reign of Christ, while anticipating its future fullness. |
    |