FEBRUARY 17-21, 2025
The Challenge of Change
SERMON BY: REV. OLIVER HELSABECK
The account of the Gerasene demoniac provides a compelling illustration of divine transformation and healing. Initially, we encounter a man in the depths of sufferingliving among tombs, possessed by demons, and isolated from society. His condition represents the various forms of bondage that can plague human existence, from mental illness to addiction and trauma. When Jesus encounters him, a dramatic transformation occurs that demonstrates the possibility of complete restoration, even in seemingly hopeless situations. The man moves from chaos to peace, from isolation to community, from
bondage to freedom. Surprisingly, the townspeople respond with fear rather than celebration, highlighting how we often resist change even when it's beneficial. This resistance mirrors our own tendency to cling to familiar patterns rather than embrace transformation. The healed man's subsequent commission to share his story reveals a crucial truth: personal transformation serves a greater purpose - inspiring and helping others find their own path to healing. This narrative challenges us to examine our own lives, identify areas needing change, and consider how our transformative experiences can benefit others.
STAY CONNECTED WITH CENTENARY
ENCOUNTERING JESUS IN OUR BROKENESS
DEVOTION
We all have moments when life feels overwhelming, when our struggles seem too heavy to bear. Like the man living among the tombs, we might feel isolated, trapped, or controlled by forces beyond our control. These could be addictions, fears, past trauma, or destructive patterns that keep us bound. But there's hope. Jesus intentionally crossed the sea to meet this man in his darkest place. He does the same for us today. No situation is too desperate, no person too far gone for His transformative touch. He sees beyond our current circumstances to who we can become through His power.
QUESTION
What areas of your life feel like they're beyond help? How might Jesus be trying to meet you in those places?
QUOTE
Luke8:26-27
"When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain."
"Jesus sees you. He knows your name, your pain and your struggles. He is always more than ready to bring healing and restoration into your life."
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for seeing me in my brokenness. Help me trust that no part of my life is beyond your healing touch. Give me courage to let you into those dark places. Amen.
THE UNSETTLING POWER OF CHANGE
DEVOTION
Change, even positive change, can be uncomfortable. When Jesus healed the demon-possessed man, the townspeople were afraid and asked Him to leave. Sometimes we too resist transformation because we've grown accustomed to our limitations. The familiar, even if painful, can feel safer than the unknown. But Jesus doesn't come to maintain the status quo in our lives. His presence challenges our comfortable patterns and invites us into something new. True transformation often begins when we're willing to be unsettled for the sake of growth.
QUESTION
What changes might God be inviting you to embrace, and what fears are holding you back?
QUOTE
2 Corinthians 5:17
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
"The presence of Jesus can be unsettling. When Jesus enters our hearts and lives, he does not come to maintain the status quo. The power of Jesus and his love come to challenge, to heal, and to transform."
PRAYER
Father, give me courage to embrace the changes you want to bring into my life. Help me trust your transforming work, even when it feels uncomfortable. Amen.
A NEW IDENTITY IN CHRIST
DEVOTION
One of the most beautiful aspects of transformation in Christ is that we receive a completely new identity. The man who was once known only for his demons became known as someone who had encountered Jesus. Our past struggles, mistakes, and wounds don't have to define us anymore. In Christ, we're not just forgiven - we're made new. This isn't about simply improving our old self; it's about becoming who God always intended us to be. When we surrender to Jesus, He doesn't just change what we do; He changes who we are.
QUESTION
How has your identity in Christ changed how you see yourself? What old labels do you need to let go of?
QUOTE
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2
"Jesus does not merely offer forgiveness. He offers us a whole new identity."
PRAYER
Jesus, thank you for giving me a new identity in you. Help me to see myself as you see me and to live from this new identity. Amen.
TRANSFORMED FOR A PURPOSE
DEVOTION
After his dramatic healing, the man wanted to stay with Jesus, but Jesus had a different plan. He sent him back to his community to share his story. Like him, our transformation isn't just for our benefit - it's meant to impact others. Each of our stories of healing and change can become a testimony that helps others find hope and freedom. When we share how Jesus has changed us, we become living proof of His power to transform lives. Our past struggles, now redeemed, can become bridges that help others find their way to Jesus.
QUESTION
How might God want to use your story of transformation to help others find hope and healing?
QUOTE
"All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:8
"Our transformation is not just for us. It's for the world around us. When we experience the grace of God in our lives, we are called to share that grace with others."
PRAYER
Lord, help me see how my story can bring hope to others. Give me courage to share what you've done in my life. Use my testimony for your glory. Amen.
ONGOING TRANSFORMATION
DEVOTION
Transformation in Christ isn't a one-time event - it's an ongoing journey. Just as the healed man had to learn to live in his new freedom, we too are continually being shaped into Christ's image. Some days we might feel like we're taking steps backward, but God's transforming work never stops. In a world full of noise and chaos, we can trust that Jesus is faithfully working in us. Change isn't just a possibility; it's a promise. Every day offers new opportunities to surrender to His transforming love and grace.
QUESTION
Where do you see God's transforming work continuing in your life today?
QUOTE
Romans 12:1
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
"Change is not just a possibility, it is a promise. Jesus is continually at work shaping us into his image"
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, thank you for your ongoing work in my life. Help me to cooperate with your transforming power and to trust your timing. Amen.
We invite you to be a part of our weekly churchwide dinner and faith formation evening on Wednesdays.
Dinner begins at 5:15PM and spriritual formation classes begin at 7:00PM.
Learn more by clicking on the Noursish logo to the left.
Church Office: (336) 724-6311 Website: www.centenary-ws.org
Stephen Ministry Congregation