Youth Sermon: Kingdom of Expectations

Introduction

Today, we're going to talk about something we all deal with - expectations. That refers to those things we think should happen or how things should be. Sometimes, our expectations can get in the way of seeing the real deal. So, let's dive into this idea and see how it connects to Jesus and our lives.

First, let's do a quick object lesson. I want you to think of your favorite candy bar. Got it? Now, imagine I handed you a completely different candy bar, one you don't really like. You'd probably be disappointed, right? That's because your expectations didn't match reality. Keep that in mind as we talk about Jesus and the expectations people had for Him.

Sometimes, our expectations can get in the way of seeing the real deal.

Jesus and Expectations

In the Bible, there were a lot of expectations about who the Messiah would be. People thought He'd be a powerful warrior who would save them from their enemies and make everything perfect. But when Jesus showed up, He didn't fit those expectations. He wasn't a warrior, but a humble teacher and healer. He didn't come to fight battles, but to bring love, forgiveness, and a new way of living.

Let's look at John 18:36, where Jesus says, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.' Jesus was telling people that His kingdom wasn't about power and control like they expected. Instead, it was a spiritual kingdom, focused on love, faith, and hope.

Our Expectations and Jesus

So, what does this mean for us? Just like the people in Jesus' time, we can have expectations about who Jesus is and what He should do in our lives. We might think He should fix all our problems or make everything easy. But that's not what Jesus is about. He's here to help us grow, to love us, and to show us how to live in His spiritual kingdom.

Next time you're facing a tough situation or feeling disappointed, take a step back and ask yourself, 'What are my expectations in this situation? Are they realistic? Are they focused on Jesus' spiritual kingdom or on my own desires?' By doing this, we can learn to see Jesus for who He really is and live in His kingdom of love, faith, and hope.

Prayer

"God, thank you for sending Jesus to show us a different kind of kingdom. Help us to let go of our expectations and see Jesus for who He really is. Teach us to live in Your spiritual kingdom and to share Your love with others. Amen."

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. How do our expectations of Jesus sometimes differ from who He really is?

2. Why do you think people in Jesus' time had trouble recognizing Him as the Messiah?

3. How can we adjust our expectations to better align with Jesus' teachings and kingdom?

4. Share a time when your expectations of Jesus were challenged or changed.

5. How can we help others see Jesus for who He truly is, beyond their expectations?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Expectation Charades
• Group Activity: Kingdom Collage
• Youth Challenge: Expectation Reflection