Featuring:  Zacharias

Introduction: For many, there have been and are doubts surrounding the Christmas Story including the characters of the story.  The first doubts came from Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist.

Doubt Can Be Normal (Even for Godly People)

• Zacharias (Luke 1:5-18)

• Thomas (John 20:24-29)

• John the Baptist (Luke 7:19-28)

Doubt Can Be Beneficial

• Doubts of Conscience - “I can honestly say I doubt, but I’m willing to examine the evidence to see if it’s true.”

• Doubts of Convenience - “I don’t know if it’s true or not, but it’s more convenient not to believe;  so don’t confuse me with the evidence.”

Doubt Can Be Destructive

• It steals our joy (Luke 1:19-23)

• It opens our heart to temptation (Genesis 16:1-16)

• It destroys our witness (John 18:15-18; 25-27)

• It nullifies our prayers (James 1:2-8)

• It excuses our sin (John 3:17-20)

Doubt Can Be Conquered

• Examine the Evidence (Luke 1:24-25; 57-58)

• Decide to Obey God (Luke 1:59-64; 67-80)

Application:  One can miss God’s best by doubting Him and His Word.  What are your doubts costing you?  (Mark 9:23-24)