Something to Talk About
Give ‘Em Something to Talk About
Radical, Visible Change
1 Thessalonians 1:4-10
1. Intro: What did you want to be when you grew up? Even when we were young, happy & care free, we still wanted to become something. Why? We’re driven to make a difference. We’re most alive when chasing a dream; a destiny.
Ø You will change the world. How you change it depends on you; maybe in unexpected ways.
Her Majesty: Ch.8 Start: 0:29:35 End: 0:32:12
Setup: Elizabeth adores the queen & asks her old Maori friend Hira for her opinion about her visit.
Scene: Hira isn’t happy about t/queen’s visit. Her father was betrayed & killed by queen’s loyalists. (End: Hira says “Forgive me for not sharing your enthusiasm.")
Application: The queen’s followers shaped Hira’s view of the queen. As His followers, we shape the opinions others have of Jesus. Bumper sticker: "Lord, deliver me from your followers!”
2. Scripture, Thessalonians 1:4-10
3. The Chosen Are Changed
A. Chosen
Ø Paul knew they were chosen. Before we look at how he knew, let’s note that they were chosen.
Ø We’re chosen by God, not just choosing God. He loved you, and chose you to spread the word. “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” John 15:16
B. Changed
Ø Evidence went beyond words. He “perceived” that they were chosen because it was visible.
Ø Those who believed the gospel (explain) were marked by deep changes that evidenced powerful H.S. activity.
· They quit seeking idols. They didn’t just change churches, come more frequently, or give or serve a bit more. They quit seeking answers and succor from any source other than Jesus.
· They imitated Paul & Jesus.
· They didn’t let the cost of following stop them. They were willing to suffer to serve God.
· They experienced joy despite suffering. It’s a fruit of the Spirit. So pursuing intimacy with Christ we’re pursuing joy. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! (Php 4:4)
· They talked up their new life in Jesus.
· They greatly desired Jesus & his return.
Ø Let’s not fool ourselves. The chosen r changed. If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Co 5:17)
Ø So, can others see a visible newness in your life?
4. The Changed Are Noticed
Ø Their witness resounded, blasted like trumpets!
Ø When people leave behind uncaring, immoral, selfish lives to trust and imitate Jesus, the profound changes scream out God’s greatness.
Ø Their changes were so profound they became a model to the believers for 100’s of miles around.
Ø As Paul traveled, those he encountered told him about how those in Thessalonica had changed.
Ø Wouldn’t it be awesome if when you or I begin to share with someone the kinds of changes God could make in their life, they interrupted saying “I know, I already know about…” and they begin to recount our stories!
The Alamo: Ch.8 Start: 0:57:18 End: 59:05
Scene Setup: At the time of the Alamo people were already telling stories about Davie Crockett. Sitting with Jim Bowie around a campfire, Davy explains how hard it is to live up to his legend.
Scene: Crockett explains that his behavior has changed because people see him as a hero and "expect things." He says he might drop over the wall except for the impact it would have on others.
Application: In his own eyes Crockett is just "simple old David," but to others he represents courage. They are watching to see if he is the real deal. We represent Jesus and people are watching us to see if Jesus is the real deal.
Ø Our example matters a lot. If we live half-hearted lives in Christ, others will be discouraged from trying. If we live amazingly in Jesus then others are encouraged.
Ø Consider the impact of being here in worship, on a retreat, compared to being at a bar with those who don’t yet follow Jesus.
Ø We need to live in a way that makes our invitations to follow Jesus or come to CCC appealing, not appalling.
Ø Not so we can grow, but so they can know; know Jesus, joy, purpose & life that’s truly life!
5. Invite:
Imagine one of these two tombstones:
1. Here lies (insert your name). Seeing him/her I saw Jesus and my life was never the same. Thank you Lord for their life.
2. Here lies (insert your name). Seeing him/her I saw hypocrisy and new there was no hope in Jesus. Spit & dance here.