The Courage To Change

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Introduction (Acts 9:1–7

Men don’t naturally like change. We like things predictable—our routines, our comfort zones, our ways of doing life. But following Jesus will always require change. Paul’s story in Acts 9 shows us that spiritual courage means stepping into change, even when it feels awkward, intimidating, or misunderstood.

When Saul became Paul, his first mission field was the very people who remembered his past. Imagine the fear, the tension, the second-guessing he must have felt. Yet Paul didn’t ease into this new life—he embraced it boldly, immediately preaching Christ. That same courage is what God is calling us to as men today: courage to change and live out the “new man” in our homes, workplaces, and friendships.

Point 1 – Change Requires Shock and Awe (Acts 9:19–22)

Verse 20 says, “Immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’” Notice the word immediately.Paul didn’t test the waters. He didn’t try to slowly transition so nobody would notice. He embraced resurrection life—and resurrection is never gradual.

Personal Story:

When Stella and I planted our church in Portland, some of my closest friends and fellow leaders were right there with us. We had done life together for years—movies, games, late-night coffee. But when I picked up the mantle of lead pastor, something shifted. God began convicting me of how I spoke about other leaders, the time I wasted, the areas of spiritual complacency I tolerated.

As I started changing, those friends noticed—and they pushed back. “Why won’t you do this anymore? Why are you acting so serious?” My flesh wanted to fit in, but my spirit was saying no. I learned that courage to change means you can’t slip into holiness like a frog in warm water. It requires shock and awe. People will notice. It will feel awkward. But you have to embrace the new life God is birthing in you.

Application for Men:

When you know God is calling you to be a different kind of husband, father, or leader, don’t tiptoe around it. Step boldly. If you wait for everyone else to be comfortable with your change, your fire will cool before it ignites.

Point 2 – Change May Cost You Friendships (Acts 9:26)

When Paul tried to join the disciples, they were afraid of him. They weren’t ready to accept his change. His old companions from Damascus? We never really hear about them again. Sometimes, when God calls you to change, not everyone will go with you.

Personal Story:

When I changed, I lost a few friendships too. That hurt. But years later, one of those friends reached back out and said, “I’m still not ready to follow you, but I’m sorry for judging you.” That taught me something: courage doesn’t always win applause in the moment. Sometimes people need years to see the fruit of your change.

Application for Men:

Some family members may not like the “new man” you’re becoming. Friends may pull back. Co-workers may mock. But your calling isn’t to keep everyone comfortable—it’s to walk faithfully with God. Courage to change may mean shedding relationships that tether you to the old man.

Point 3 – Every Paul Needs a Barnabas (Acts 9:27)

Verse 27 says, “Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles…” Paul’s courage was fueled by Barnabas’s support. Without Barnabas, Paul may never have been accepted into the community of believers.

Personal Story:

This is why I believe so strongly in Life Groups and why we sit at tables like this. You can’t do change alone. I couldn’t have survived planting a church in Portland without brothers and mentors who challenged me and encouraged me. Every Paul needs a Barnabas. You need another man in your life who will:

Speak up for you when others doubt you.

Hold you accountable when you’re tempted to compromise.

Coach you when you’re discouraged.

Application for Men:

Who is your Barnabas? And who are you being a Barnabas to? Change is too hard to walk alone. You need men who see the “new you” and refuse to let you drift back into the old.

Weekly Challenge

Identify one area where the “old man” is still alive in you. Take a bold, visible step to put it to death this week.

Reach out to one person (friend, co-worker, or family member) and invite them to church or share your testimony with them.