I’m Not Surprised, But I Am Disappointed

By Steve Higginbotham

I know that there is a very real possibility that those who possess a knowledge of the truth may be derelict in passing that truth along to the next generation. The biblical record preserves an example of this exact thing happening. The Bible says:

“When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the Lord nor the work which he had done for Israel” (Judges 2:10).

A careful reading of this text reveals that not only did this generation not “know” or “have a relationship” with the Lord, but they did not ever know the works that God had done for Israel. Think of it. This generation was not taught, and thus were ignorant of how God…

Preserved Moses to be their deliverer. Brought plagues upon the Egyptians. Sustained them in the wilderness with manna, and kept their sandals from wearing

out. Parted the Red Sea. Led them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

These were among the works of God that should have induced faith in this generation, but they did not, for this generation was ignorant of his works. Therefore, while being a great disappointment, it should not come as a surprise that this generation did not turn to God’s word but did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25).

Therefore, today I find myself disappointed, but not at all surprised by what I am witnessing in our generation. We have raised a generation who…

Affirms baptism is not essential for salvation. Denies male spiritual leadership and gender-based role distinctions in the church. Denies mechanical instruments of music are unauthorized in Christian worship. Affirms the existence of denominationalism is beneficial. Affirms that God approves of LGBTQ behavior. Affirms that gospel preaching is judgmental, homophobic, misogynistic, hate

speech.

How has this happened? It has happened just as it did in the days of Judges. We allowed a generation to grow up in homes wherein God was not the priority. I’m disappointed, but I’m not surprised. The good news is there’s hope! There’s always hope in God! Don’t be silenced and despair because of our culture, rather be bold and speak up for the Lord (Acts 4:29).