13.04.2021

How can Christians overcome resistance to change?

Preamble:
Many people including Christians find comfort in their current state resisting changes in their environment and life. Some resist the development of this age and their spiritual life - resisting modernization.

Bible passages: 
1Peter 3:4, 1John 4:1-6

Discussion:
Change is something versatile which is required in every areas of life.
Definition of change: is to make (someone or something) different; alter or modify.
Change could also mean to replace (something) with something else, especially something of the same kind that is newer or better; substitute one thing for (another).
In our discussion the focus will be on 3 aspects of change:
1. Change in spiritual growth - in reference to one’s calling, duty, responsibility or ministry.
2. Change in personal development - in the area of one’s aspirations, increasing knowledge or career development.
3. Change in intervention - modernization growth in ministry, calling, responsibility or personal life.
Firstly, we considered how does change relates with the word of God? The Bible tells us that at the end time knowledge will increase Daniel 12:4. At the same time, Hebrews 13:7-8 tells us that “
…. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”.
The greater part of our discussion fell on the deliberations of how mobile phones should be used when we are in the presence of God.

Key points:
1. Since mobile phones are not allowed in certain places like: hospitals, GP surgeries, court, and certain offices. Should mobile phones be used as a means of reading the word of God during service?
2. Tool for distraction or temptation - don’t be ignorant of the devices of the devil 2Corinthians 2:11. The devil could use the mobile phone as a tool of distraction during service and Christians could be tempted in checking or responding to messages during the Church service.
3. 1Corinthians 10:12 “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” The devil could tempt or trick anyone to sin.
4. Stronger Christians might be able to withstand sin, distraction or temptation. But on the other hand, Christians need to be mindful of weaker or younger Christians. 1Corinthians 8:13, “Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.”
1 Corinthians 8:9 “But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.”

The discussion focused on 3 aspects:
1. Change in Spiritual growth.
2. Change in personal development.
3. Change or growth in modernization.

Bible passages: 
Mark 16:15, Hebrews 6:1-3, 1Corinthians 10:13, John 3:8, 1Peter 1:23-25, Romans 8:28, 2Corinthians 5:17

Discussion:
1. Change in Spiritual growth: After accepting Jesus as Lord and saviour it is mandatory that one should grow because the devil does not want anyone to be free of sin.
Christians need to grow and have the confidence of preaching the gospel. Mark 16:15 Jesus told His disciples to go into the world and preach the gospel.
- we need to surrender our lives to listen to God’s calling as changes always comes but we should not be afraid.
- we need to make sure that we hear the voice of God and take a step of faith to make a change.
2. Change in personal development: comfort zone could disable growth. If we make Jesus the centre of our life; we will find it easy to obey him.

Key points:
- learn how to hear and recognize the voice of God,
- be certain that the instruction is from God, and yield to His voice,
- God might decide to choose someone else if one refuse to obey Him,
- firm relationship with the Holy Spirit helps in understanding God’s instruction. Relying only on the Holy Spirit as it gives directions.
- as a Christian we don’t need to fear or seek validation from man when we are sure of God’s instruction. Trust and obey.

Praise God🙏🏾