The Unwanted Gift | Jackson Arnett

This sermon explores the challenge of accepting unwanted gifts from God, using the story of Joseph and Mary from Matthew 1:18-25. Joseph, a righteous young man, faced a life-changing dilemma when his fiancée, Mary, returned home pregnant. She was carrying Jesus, conceived by the Holy Spirit, a miraculous child who would be the Savior. To Joseph, this unexpected pregnancy was an unwanted gift that upended his plans. Despite his faithfulness and purity, Joseph was thrust into turmoil, challenging our notions that doing good guarantees God's blessings. Job 41:11 reminds us that God owes us nothing; obedience is about trust, not controlling outcomes. Joseph's response to his unexpected situation shows we must follow God even when it's inconvenient, misunderstood, uncertain, or contrary to our plans. While we may never fully grasp God's perspective, we can trust His character, knowing from Romans 8:28 that He works everything for the good of those who love Him. In this Christmas season, amidst financial, health, or relational hardships, we are encouraged to seek refuge in God instead of fleeing in disappointment.

Chapter 1: Obedience Is Not a Formula 0:00 - 22:11
Chapter 2: Living for God's Approval Above All 22:12 - 26:52
Chapter 3: Anchored by God's Word in Uncertainty 26:53 - 34:50
Chapter 4: Trusting Even Without Agreement 34:51