December 17, 2023

Wise Men Change Their Minds

Introduction

Illustration: Start with a vivid depiction of the Wise Men's journey, their joy upon seeing the star, and their adoration of Jesus. Highlight the significant moment of their decision to return by a different route after being warned in a dream.

Context: Explain the traditional focus on the Magi's journey and gifts during Christmas, but emphasize the less-discussed aspect of their decision to change their minds and paths.

Most of us change our minds about as often as we change our socks. However, there are times when change may be needed but is rather difficult. Changing your position on an important issue. A change in your theology. Honestly, sometimes the change you may be dealing with is life-altering. Like the Wisemen, it will change the path you are on in life. In those times, it would be good to keep three things in mind:

Divine - Decide - Dedicate

Divine Intervention and Decision Making

Point: The Wisemen's change of route as a response to divine guidance.

Illustration: Compare this to everyday decisions where one might choose familiar paths (like known gas stations or charging stations for electric camels) versus responding to divine intervention.

Scripture: Matthew 2:10-12

Matthew 2:10–12 ESV

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

Challenging Changes and Dedication

Point: Changing one’s position or beliefs is difficult but sometimes necessary.

Illustration: Share a personal story or a congregational experience where a significant change led to a better outcome, despite initial challenges.

Key Concepts: Divine (dreams or signs), Decide (choice to follow), Dedicate (commitment to the choice).

The Rich Young Ruler and Zacchaeus

Point A: Rich Young Ruler's reluctance to change.

Illustration: A modern analogy of someone struggling with the idea of giving up material wealth for spiritual richness.

Scripture: Luke 18:20-23

Luke 18:20–23 ESV

20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’ ” 21 And he said, “All these I have kept from my youth.” 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 23 But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.

Point B: Zacchaeus' immediate response and transformation.

Illustration: An example of someone who eagerly embraces change for a greater good, perhaps from a community or historical figure.

Scripture: Luke 19:5-9

Luke 19:5–9 ESV

5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.

Cost of Dedication to Change

Point: The significant sacrifices involved in truly dedicating oneself to a change.

Illustration: Use a relatable example, like committing to a new lifestyle or a major career change, to demonstrate the cost and dedication involved.

Like a commitment to lose weight or pay off debt in the new year. If stay focused on the result you are trying to get the cost will be worth it.

Application: Encourage the congregation to reflect on their own lives and where they might be called to make changes.

Conclusion

Summarization: Reiterate the importance of being open to changing one's mind in light of divine guidance, as shown by the

Wise Men, the Rich Young Ruler, and Zacchaeus.

Call to Action: Encourage the congregation to seek Jesus above all and be open to changing their paths in life.

Closing Scripture:

Romans 12:2 - Emphasize the transformation through the renewal of mind and being open to change one’s heart and life.

Romans 12:2 ESV

2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

What are the patterns and ways of the world?

In the church, we can tend to get stagnant and avoid change. There is great comfort in staying the same. However, there are times when change is needed. It could be as simple as changing the direction of your journey home or as complicated as changing your mind about where you find your identity.

Prayer: Conclude with a prayer asking for guidance in discerning when to change and when to stay the same.