Chapel Notes
Lie 4: “You Can’t Change What You Are”
Luke 23:39-43
Objective
To know that change is possible with God.
Memory Verses
“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31-32, NIV 1984).
# The Struggle to Change: Can People Really Transform?
## Opening Story: The Transformation of John Newton (1725-1788)
Let me tell you about a man named John Newton. As a young man, he was known as one of the cruelest slave ship captains sailing the seas. He would capture people from Africa, chain them up, and transport them in horrible conditions to be sold as slaves. He was mean, used bad language, and didn't care about hurting others.
But something amazing happened to John Newton. One night, his ship got caught in a terrible storm. The waves were as tall as buildings, and everyone thought they would die. In his fear, John prayed for the first time in many years. When he survived the storm, he began to think differently about his life.
Slowly but surely, John Newton changed completely. He stopped being a slave ship captain, became a minister instead, and spent the rest of his life helping others. He wrote the famous song "Amazing Grace" that many of us still sing today. The words "I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see" came from his own life story.
## Understanding the Struggle
Just like in our Bible notes, many people struggle with change. Maybe you've heard someone say:
- "When will you change?"
- "Will you ever change?"
- "Please change!"
These words can hurt, especially when we're trying our best to be better. Sometimes, people might even say things like "They'll never change" or "That person is hopeless."
## Discussion Questions for Young Hearts:
1. Have you ever tried to change something about yourself? (Like being nicer to your sister or brother, or trying to tell the truth more?)
2. How did it feel when it was hard to change?
3. What helped you when you were trying to change?
## Challenge Questions:
1. Think about someone you know who has changed for the better. What made their change possible?
2. If someone tells you that you can't change, what would you say to them?
3. How can we help others who are trying to change?
## Key Message for Young Hearts:
Just like John Newton changed from being a mean slave ship captain to a kind minister who helped others, people CAN change. It might be hard, and it might take time, but with God's help, change is possible. Remember, God loves us and wants to help us become better people.
## Application:
Think about one small thing you'd like to change about yourself this week. Maybe it's:
- Being kinder to others
- Helping more at home
- Being more honest
- Listening better to parents or teachers
Remember, just like the criminal on the cross who changed his heart toward Jesus, we too can change when we ask God to help us.
# Section 2: Taunting Jesus - Understanding Our Resistance to Change
## The Walker Brothers' Story (1954) - Expanded Version
*Note: This is a teaching illustration - names and details have been adapted for the sermon*
In the sweltering summer of 1954, in the small town of Marshall, Texas, Tom and Jim Walker made a decision that would change their lives forever. The brothers, raised by their grandmother after losing their parents in a car accident, had always been close but took very different paths in life.
### Before the Crime
- Tom (age 28) - Hot-tempered, always looking for quick money
- Jim (age 25) - Quieter, worked as a mechanic but got influenced by his brother
- They lived in a small house on Cedar Street
- Both had lost their jobs during the economic downturn
### The Day of the Crime
On June 15, 1954:
- The brothers robbed the First National Bank of Marshall
- They took $43,000 (about $430,000 in today's money)
- During the robbery, a security guard was seriously injured
- They were caught three days later hiding in an old barn
### Life in Ellis Prison
#### Tom's Response:
- Became known as "Bitter Tom"
- Spent most days complaining about:
- The unfair justice system
- Their lawyer who "failed them"
- The guard who "got in their way"
- Started fights with other inmates
- Refused to participate in any rehabilitation programs
- Blamed their grandmother for not giving them enough
- Made life difficult for the prison guards
#### Jim's Journey:
- Initially angry and participated in taunting other inmates
- A turning point came when an old prison chaplain, Pastor Roberts, reached out to him
- Started attending prison chapel services
- Began working in the prison library
- Wrote letters of apology to:
- The injured security guard
- Their grandmother
- The bank employees who were traumatized
- Started teaching other inmates to read
### The Transformation
Three years into their sentence:
- Jim became a different person
- Helped start a prison education program
- Counseled new inmates
- Became known as "Brother Jim" among inmates
- Even the guards noticed his complete change
- Tom remained unchanged
- Got into more trouble
- Spent time in solitary confinement
- Added five more years to his sentence due to bad behavior
- Refused to acknowledge any wrongdoing
### The Parallel to Our Bible Story
Just like the two criminals on the cross:
- Both brothers started in the same place
- Both had the same opportunities
- Both faced the same sentence
- But they made different choices about change
### The Aftermath
After release:
- Jim went on to work with troubled youth
- Started a program helping ex-prisoners adjust to society
- Got married and had three children
- Regularly spoke at schools about making better choices
- Tom continued his cycle of crime
- Was in and out of prison three more times
- Never reconciled with his family
- Died alone in 1985
### Real-Life Application Questions:
1. What do you think made the difference between Tom and Jim?
2. Can you think of a moment in your life, like Jim had with Pastor Roberts, where someone's kindness made you want to change?
3. How do pride and blame keep us from changing?
4. What small steps can you take today to be more like Jim and less like Tom?
### Deeper Discussion Points:
1. The Role of Choice:
- Both brothers had the same background
- Both faced the same circumstances
- Both had the same opportunities
- What made their paths diverge?
2. The Power of Influence:
- How did Pastor Roberts' kindness affect Jim?
- Why did Tom reject all help?
- Who influences your choices today?
3. The Process of Change:
- Jim's change wasn't instant
- It started with small decisions
- Each positive choice led to another
- Change happened gradually but completely
This story mirrors our Bible passage about the two criminals on the cross - showing us that no matter where we start, we always have the choice to change. Just as one criminal recognized Jesus while the other continued to mock Him, we too face this choice daily.
## Breaking Down the Bible Story (In Child-Friendly Terms)
Imagine you're standing at a place called "the Skull" (that's what they called the hill where Jesus was crucified). There are three crosses:
- Jesus is in the middle
- Two criminals are on either side
- These weren't just any criminals - they were "rebels" (like people who fought against the government)
Think about it like this: It's like having three people in timeout at school:
- One person who did nothing wrong (Jesus)
- Two people who broke all the rules (the criminals)
## The Criminals' Actions
Our Bible notes tell us something interesting - both criminals started out making fun of Jesus:
- They "heaped insults" on Him (that means they were very mean to Him)
- They were like bullies on a playground, teasing someone who didn't deserve it
- They were both facing death, yet they still chose to be unkind
## Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think people sometimes make fun of others who are trying to do good?
2. Have you ever been mean to someone and later felt sorry about it?
3. What makes it hard for us to admit when we're wrong?
## Interactive Learning Moment
Let's do a simple activity: Hold up your hands
- Right hand: represents the criminal who kept being mean
- Left hand: represents the criminal who changed his mind
Now, make a fist with your right hand (staying angry and mean)
Open your left hand (showing openness to change)
## Challenge Questions:
1. Which criminal are you more like right now in your life?
2. What makes it hard to say "I'm sorry" when we do something wrong?
3. How can we be more like the criminal who changed his mind?
## Key Message for Young Hearts:
Sometimes we act like these criminals - we might be mean or refuse to admit when we're wrong. But just like one criminal changed his mind about Jesus, we can change too!
## Application Points:
1. Next time you feel like making fun of someone, stop and think about Jesus
2. Practice saying "I was wrong" when you make a mistake
3. Remember that it's never too late to change your attitude
## Prayer Point:
"Dear Jesus, help us to be brave enough to admit when we're wrong, just like the criminal who changed his mind about You. Help us to be kind, even when others aren't. Amen."
# Section 3: A Remarkable Change of Heart - The Power of True Repentance
## Opening Story: The Transformation of Louis Zamperini (1917-2014)
Louis Zamperini's story is one of the most remarkable transformations in modern history. Let me share it with you:
### Before His Change:
- Olympic runner in 1936 Berlin Olympics
- World War II bombardier
- Survived 47 days at sea after his plane crashed
- Endured two years in Japanese prison camps
- After the war, became an alcoholic
- Was filled with hatred and wanted revenge
- His marriage was falling apart
- Had constant nightmares about his captors
### The Moment of Change:
In 1949, Louis's wife convinced him to attend a Billy Graham crusade. Like our criminal on the cross, Louis had his moment of truth:
- He remembered his prayers for survival at sea
- Recalled promising God he would serve Him if saved
- Just like the criminal who recognized Jesus as King
- Made an immediate decision to change
### After His Change:
- Stopped drinking completely
- Forgave his prison camp tormentors
- Visited Japan to personally forgive his former guards
- Started a camp for troubled youth
- Became a Christian speaker
- His nightmares stopped completely
- Marriage was restored
- Carried the Olympic torch in 1998 in Japan
## Breaking Down the Biblical Change of Heart
Let's look at what happened on the cross, comparing it to how we can change today:
### The Criminal's Four Steps of Change:
1. **Recognition of God's Authority**
- "Don't you fear God?"
- Like a child recognizing their parent knows best
- Understanding there's someone bigger than us
2. **Admission of Guilt**
- "We are punished justly"
- "We are getting what our deeds deserve"
- No more excuses or blame
3. **Recognition of Jesus's Innocence**
- "This man has done nothing wrong"
- Seeing Jesus for who He really is
- Understanding the difference between right and wrong
4. **Request for Grace**
- "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom"
- Asking for help
- Believing in future hope
## Interactive Learning Activity: "The Change Chain"
*Have children stand in a circle and act this out:*
1. First Position: Head down (representing shame)
2. Second Position: Look up (recognizing God)
3. Third Position: Open hands (admitting wrong)
4. Fourth Position: Arms reaching up (asking for help)
5. Final Position: Standing tall with smile (transformed)
## Discussion Questions for Young Hearts:
1. What makes it hard to admit when we're wrong?
2. How does it feel when we finally tell the truth about something we did wrong?
3. Why do you think Jesus was so quick to forgive the criminal?
## Challenge Questions:
1. Think about something you need to change. What's your first step?
2. Who can help you make this change?
3. How can you help others who want to change?
## Practical Applications:
### For Children:
- Start with small changes (like picking up toys)
- Practice saying "I was wrong" when you make mistakes
- Ask for help when trying to change bad habits
### For Adults:
- Identify areas needing change
- Find accountability partners
- Take specific steps toward change
## The Promise of Change:
Remember Jesus's words: "Today you will be with me in paradise"
- Change can happen instantly
- It's never too late
- Jesus is ready to help
- The past doesn't determine your future
## Modern-Day Application:
Just like Louis Zamperini and the criminal on the cross:
1. We can change no matter our past
2. Change often happens in a moment of crisis
3. Real change affects all areas of life
4. Change requires both divine help and human willingness
## Closing Reflection:
Think about these three things:
1. What needs to change in your life?
2. What's stopping you from changing?
3. Are you ready to ask Jesus for help?
# Section 4: The Promise and Power of Change - Making It Personal
## Opening Story: The Transformation of Stanley Williams (1953-2005)
### The Story of "Tookie"
*Note: This story, while true, has been adapted to focus on the redemptive aspects*
Stanley "Tookie" Williams had a reputation that made people tremble:
- Co-founded one of the most notorious gangs in Los Angeles
- Spent his youth promoting violence
- Was sentenced to death row in 1981
- Seemed like someone who could never change
### The Transformation:
While in San Quentin Prison:
- Experienced a profound change in 1994
- Started writing children's books
- Created peace protocols for gang members
- Wrote nine books warning youth against gang life
- Nominated multiple times for Nobel Peace Prize
- Helped broker gang truces from prison
- Apologized for his role in creating gang culture
His change was so dramatic that:
- Teachers used his books in classrooms
- Former gang members sought his advice
- He received commendations from presidents
- Thousands of youth wrote to him about changing their lives
## Breaking Down God's Promise of Change
### The Three Promises from Our Text:
1. **The Promise of Immediate Acceptance**
"Today..." (Luke 23:43)
- God doesn't make us wait
- Change can happen in an instant
- No probation period needed
2. **The Promise of Personal Relationship**
"...you will be with me..." (Luke 23:43)
- Jesus offers friendship
- Direct connection with God
- No intermediary needed
3. **The Promise of Paradise**
"...in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
- Complete transformation
- New beginning
- Fresh start
## Interactive Learning: "The Change Challenge"
*Create a simple activity for the congregation:*
### Materials Needed:
- Paper
- Pencils
- Small boxes or containers
### Steps:
1. Write down one thing you want to change
2. Fold the paper
3. Place it in the box
4. Take home as a reminder
5. Check progress in one week
## Practical Steps for Change:
### 1. Identify the Need
- What needs to change?
- Why does it need to change?
- How will change help?
### 2. Make a Plan
- Set specific goals
- Create small, achievable steps
- Identify potential obstacles
### 3. Find Support
- Who can help you?
- What resources do you need?
- Where can you find encouragement?
### 4. Take Action
- Start with one small step
- Celebrate small victories
- Learn from setbacks
## Discussion Questions:
For Children:
1. What's the hardest thing about trying to change?
2. How does it feel when you successfully change something?
3. Who helps you when you're trying to change?
For Adults:
1. What patterns in your life seem impossible to change?
2. How has God helped you change in the past?
3. What's stopping you from making necessary changes now?
## Application Challenges:
### This Week:
1. Identify one specific thing to change
2. Share your goal with someone you trust
3. Take one small step toward change
4. Pray daily for God's help
### This Month:
1. Keep a change journal
2. Find an accountability partner
3. Celebrate small victories
4. Help someone else who wants to change
## The Power of God's Help:
Remember these truths:
1. God's power is available now
2. Change is always possible
3. It's never too late
4. You're not alone
## Closing Prayer Points:
"Dear God,
- Help us believe change is possible
- Give us strength to take the first step
- Surround us with supportive people
- Show us Your power to transform lives
Amen"
## Take-Home Message:
Just as the criminal on the cross experienced immediate transformation, we too can experience God's power to change today. Remember:
- Change starts with a decision
- God provides the power
- Community provides the support
- Every day is a new opportunity
# Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Change
## Opening Story: The Butterfly Effect
*A practical illustration of transformation*
In a laboratory in Singapore, scientists conducted an experiment with butterflies:
- A caterpillar enters its chrysalis stage
- For days, it seems nothing is happening
- Inside, a complete transformation occurs
- Eventually, a beautiful butterfly emerges
- The key is: the struggle to emerge strengthens the butterfly's wings
Like the butterfly, our transformation requires:
- Time in the chrysalis (periods of change)
- Struggle (which makes us stronger)
- Complete metamorphosis (total change)
- Patience during the process
## Final Summary of Key Points
### 1. The Reality of Change
From our first section:
- Everyone struggles with change
- Past failures don't determine future success
- Change is possible with God
### 2. The Resistance to Change
From our second section:
- Like the Walker brothers, we have choices
- Our attitude determines our outcome
- Pride can prevent transformation
### 3. The Process of Change
From our third section:
- Recognition (seeing our need)
- Repentance (turning around)
- Request (asking for help)
- Renewal (experiencing transformation)
### 4. The Power for Change
From our fourth section:
- God's immediate acceptance
- Divine assistance available
- Community support crucial
## Practical Steps Moving Forward
### Daily Actions:
1. Morning Reflection
- What needs to change today?
- Where do I need God's help?
- Who can support me?
2. Evening Review
- What progress did I make?
- Where did I struggle?
- What did I learn?
### Weekly Commitments:
1. Join a support group
2. Share your journey with others
3. Celebrate small victories
4. Learn from setbacks
## The Change Challenge
### Week 1:
- Identify one specific area for change
- Write it down
- Share with a trusted friend
- Take one small step
### Month 1:
- Keep a change journal
- Meet weekly with an accountability partner
- Celebrate progress
- Adjust plans as needed
## Final Illustrations
### The Three Trees:
1. The Seed (Where we start)
- Small
- Hidden potential
- Needs nurturing
2. The Sapling (Where we are)
- Growing
- Vulnerable
- Needs support
3. The Mature Tree (Where we're going)
- Strong
- Fruitful
- Helping others
## Closing Prayer
"Heavenly Father,
Like the criminal on the cross, We come to You seeking transformation.
Give us:
- Courage to begin
- Strength to continue
- Wisdom to grow
- Love to help others
In Jesus' name, Amen."
## Take-Home Reflection Questions:
1. Personal Growth:
- What's the next step in my journey?
- How am I different from last year?
- Where do I want to be next year?
2. Community Impact:
- Who can I help in their journey?
- How can my story encourage others?
- What resources can I share?
## Final Challenge
Remember:
- Change is possible
- God is willing
- Help is available
- Today is the day
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
## Action Steps This Week:
1. Write your change commitment
2. Share with a friend
3. Take first step
4. Pray daily
5. Record progress
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