Great Expectations

Guiding Question: How can the church prepare for what’s next while faithfully handing off leadership to the next generation?

Summary

Description: In this heartfelt and visionary message, Robert Lewis shares his final sermon as a staff member of Fellowship Bible Church. Using a marathon analogy and drawing from 2 Timothy 4, he frames the transfer of leadership as a necessary and strategic “handoff” to the next generation. Like Paul entrusting Timothy to lead the church at Ephesus, Lewis charges the younger leaders at Fellowship—particularly Tim Lundy—with the responsibility of preaching the Word and fulfilling their ministry with conviction and endurance.

This message is both personal and prophetic. Lewis reflects on 25 years of ministry, celebrates the strength of the church, and lays out five key cultural and ministry trends that the next generation must address to ensure the church remains vibrant and faithful.

Outline:

1. Marathon Analogy – A race requires preparation, guidance, and the right pacing.

2. Paul and Timothy (2 Timothy 4) – The sacred handoff of leadership and mission.

3. The Reality of Decline – Every thriving church has a shelf life without renewal.

4. Five Cultural and Ministry Trends:

   • Massive church closures due to generational shifts.

   • A move toward small, high-quality churches.

   • A demand for doctrinal clarity and authentic leadership.

   • The rise of homegrown, non-seminary ministers.

   • A renewed focus on evangelizing children and teens.

5. Personal Reflections and Departure – Robert Lewis formally announces his transition to Global Reach and commissions Fellowship’s next generation.

6. The Final Charge – Preach the Word. Fulfill your ministry. Die with no regrets.

Key Takeaways

• Effective leadership transitions are intentional, spiritual, and urgent for the future health of the church.

• The church must adapt to cultural and generational changes without compromising doctrinal clarity or mission.

• Small churches can be powerful when combined with excellence and community.

• The future of the church depends on equipping everyday believers for ministry.

• The most strategic evangelism today is aimed at youth, given their openness and under-reached status.

• Finishing well means living with “no regrets” and passing the baton with confidence and hope.

Scriptural References

• 2 Timothy 4:1–8 – Paul’s solemn charge to Timothy and reflection on finishing well.

• Acts 20:18–32 (paraphrased) – Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders, adapted by Lewis to say goodbye to Fellowship.

• Ecclesiastes 3:1 (implied) – Recognizing seasons and times for transitions.

Recorded 3/6/05