Transformative Change: Embracing Jesus' Path to Growth

 

Summary

The concept of a "theory of change" is pivotal in various sectors, from business to social movements, as it provides a structured approach to achieving desired outcomes. It involves identifying a goal and working backward to determine the necessary steps and rationales to reach that goal. This concept, popularized by figures like Peter Drucker and institutions like the Aspen Institute, is measured by its impact, influence, and leverage. Historical examples include Henry Ford's vision of affordable cars for all and Steve Jobs' revolutionary technology designs. In psychology, theories of change have been proposed by Freud, Skinner, and Rogers, each offering different pathways to personal transformation.

However, the most influential theory of change in history is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Despite humble beginnings, Jesus' directive to his disciples to make disciples of all nations has had an unparalleled impact. This movement has transformed billions of lives, founded educational and charitable institutions, and inspired immeasurable generosity. Dallas Willard, in "The Renovation of the Heart," emphasizes that this theory of change is about spiritual formation and the growth of the church. It involves making apprentices of Jesus, immersing them in the Trinitarian presence, and teaching them to naturally embody the teachings of Jesus.

This divine theory of change invites us to reflect on our personal transformation. As followers of Jesus, our ultimate goal is to be with Him, learn from Him, and become like Him. This involves being immersed in the presence of God and allowing His love, joy, and peace to flow through us. In a world where many drift without direction, the invitation is to embrace this transformative journey and guard our hearts.

Key Takeaways:

1. A theory of change is a structured approach to achieving a desired outcome, involving a clear goal and the steps needed to reach it. This concept is crucial in various fields, providing a roadmap for effective change. [00:34]

2. Historical figures like Henry Ford and Steve Jobs exemplified theories of change by envisioning transformative ideas and systematically working towards them. Their legacies demonstrate the power of a well-thought-out plan. [03:04]

3. In psychology, different theories of change have been proposed, each offering unique insights into personal transformation. From Freud's focus on unconscious drives to Rogers' emphasis on unconditional acceptance, these theories highlight diverse pathways to change. [04:00]

4. The most influential theory of change is rooted in Jesus' teachings, which have transformed countless lives and inspired the founding of significant institutions. This divine theory emphasizes making disciples and immersing them in God's presence. [06:08]

5. Embracing Jesus' theory of change involves a personal commitment to transformation, being with Him, learning from Him, and becoming like Him. This journey invites us to be immersed in God's presence and allow His love and peace to flow through us. [09:53]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:34] - Introduction to Theory of Change
- [01:14] - Historical Context and Influences
- [02:30] - The Cartoon Analogy
- [03:04] - Examples from History
- [04:00] - Theories of Change in Psychology
- [05:24] - The 12 Steps Program
- [05:41] - The Greatest Theory of Change
- [06:47] - Jesus' Commission
- [07:53] - Dallas Willard's Insights
- [08:47] - Immersion in the Trinitarian Presence
- [09:23] - Personal Transformation
- [10:08] - Embracing the Moment
- [10:33] - Love and Transformation
- [11:17] - Conclusion and Invitation

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Matthew 28:18-20

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Observation Questions:

1. What is the "theory of change" that Jesus presents in Matthew 28:18-20, and how does it differ from other theories of change mentioned in the sermon? [06:47]

2. According to the sermon, what are the three facets that measure a great theory of change? [01:37]

3. How did historical figures like Henry Ford and Steve Jobs exemplify their theories of change, and what were the outcomes of their visions? [03:04]

4. What role does the concept of "immersion in the Trinitarian presence" play in Jesus' theory of change, as discussed in the sermon? [08:47]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the directive in Matthew 28:18-20 to make disciples relate to the concept of spiritual formation as described by Dallas Willard in the sermon? [07:53]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that Jesus' theory of change has influenced the founding of educational and charitable institutions? [07:14]

3. How does the sermon describe the personal transformation process for followers of Jesus, and what does it mean to be "immersed in God's presence"? [09:53]

4. What might be the significance of Jesus choosing a diverse group of disciples, as mentioned in the sermon, for the spread of His theory of change? [06:34]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your personal journey of transformation. How can you be more intentional about being with Jesus, learning from Him, and becoming like Him this week? [09:53]

2. The sermon mentions the importance of being immersed in God's presence. What practical steps can you take to immerse yourself in the Trinitarian presence daily? [08:47]

3. Consider the impact of Jesus' theory of change on your life. How can you contribute to making disciples in your community or workplace? [06:47]

4. Identify one area in your life where you feel directionless. How can embracing Jesus' theory of change provide clarity and purpose in that area? [10:58]

5. Think about a historical figure or leader you admire. How can their approach to change inspire you to develop a personal theory of change aligned with your faith? [03:04]

6. The sermon highlights the importance of generosity inspired by Jesus' teachings. What is one way you can practice generosity this week, either with your time, resources, or talents? [07:40]

7. How can you guard your heart against distractions that prevent you from fully embracing the transformative journey with Jesus? [11:17]

Devotional

Day 1: Structured Pathways to Change
A theory of change is a strategic framework that guides individuals and organizations toward achieving specific goals. It involves setting a clear objective and identifying the necessary steps to reach that outcome. This approach is crucial across various fields, providing a roadmap for effective change. By understanding the desired end and working backward, one can create a structured plan that maximizes impact and influence. This method is not only applicable in business or social movements but also in personal growth and spiritual development. [00:34]

"For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?" (Luke 14:28, ESV)

Reflection: What is one specific goal you have in your spiritual life, and what steps can you take today to begin working toward it?


Day 2: Visionary Change Agents
Historical figures like Henry Ford and Steve Jobs exemplified theories of change by envisioning transformative ideas and systematically working towards them. Their legacies demonstrate the power of a well-thought-out plan. Ford's vision of affordable cars and Jobs' revolutionary technology designs changed industries and lives. These examples show how a clear vision, combined with strategic action, can lead to significant and lasting impact. By applying similar principles, individuals can also create meaningful change in their own lives and communities. [03:04]

"Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law." (Proverbs 29:18, ESV)

Reflection: What is a visionary idea or dream you have for your life or community, and how can you begin to take practical steps toward realizing it?


Day 3: Diverse Pathways to Personal Transformation
In psychology, different theories of change have been proposed, each offering unique insights into personal transformation. From Freud's focus on unconscious drives to Rogers' emphasis on unconditional acceptance, these theories highlight diverse pathways to change. Understanding these psychological frameworks can provide valuable tools for self-reflection and growth. By exploring different approaches, individuals can find the methods that resonate most with their personal journey and facilitate meaningful transformation. [04:00]

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2, ESV)

Reflection: Which psychological or spiritual approach to personal transformation resonates most with you, and how can you incorporate it into your daily life?


Day 4: The Divine Theory of Change
The most influential theory of change is rooted in Jesus' teachings, which have transformed countless lives and inspired the founding of significant institutions. This divine theory emphasizes making disciples and immersing them in God's presence. Jesus' directive to his disciples to make disciples of all nations has had an unparalleled impact, leading to the growth of the church and the spread of His teachings. This approach to change is about spiritual formation and the growth of the church, inviting individuals to become apprentices of Jesus and embody His teachings. [06:08]

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively participate in Jesus' commission to make disciples in your own community or sphere of influence?


Day 5: Embracing Personal Transformation in Christ
Embracing Jesus' theory of change involves a personal commitment to transformation, being with Him, learning from Him, and becoming like Him. This journey invites individuals to be immersed in God's presence and allow His love and peace to flow through them. In a world where many drift without direction, this divine invitation offers a transformative path that leads to spiritual growth and fulfillment. By committing to this journey, individuals can experience profound personal change and a deeper connection with God. [09:53]

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Reflection: What specific practices can you incorporate into your daily routine to deepen your relationship with Jesus and allow His presence to transform you?

Quotes


so the phrase i want to talk about today think about reflect on invite you and me to seek to live out is the phrase theory of change this gets talked about a lot in our day for businesses for not-for-profits for government agencies particularly for people who are working on some kind of social change that is you don't want to just take random shots in the dark you want to have a theory of change you start with a desired outcome what's the great end goal that you are pursuing [00:00:25]

and then you look at what are the outcomes that need to be arranged between where i am right now you kind of work backwards and where it is that you want to go and what are the rationales for each one of the outcomes in that link why why does it rationally coherently fit together what's the theory of change apparently it dates back to peter drucker brilliant guru of leadership and management thought who talked about management by objectives [00:00:57]

and then in the 1990s carol weiss and other folks at the aspen institute by the way how come we never get invited to the aspen institute there should be some kind of a become new dot me institute in aspen i think anyway uh they talked about it quite a lot and that the measure of a great theory of change is looking at three different facets one is the impact that impact is uh the power that it has on the individual life upon which it is focused [00:01:30]

and then influence that is does it cause change in other people who are working in that same field and then leverage does it motivate people to want to give to invest resources to be a part of this and you could look at any kind of system that you want to you could look at something like climate change or helping to people to be healthier or stop racism or combat poverty and the question is what is the theory of change behind your efforts [00:01:58]

in the field of psychology how is it that people change was marked by theories of change so freud came along and said our problem is we have these unsatisfied largely unconscious drives and desires and if people could just achieve insight if through techniques like psychoanalysis like free association people could become aware of what they had been repressing now they could change bf skinner came along and said no you don't need to worry about any of that [00:03:52]

it's all about reward just reinforcement and punishment so whatever it is that you want to achieve you just reinforce that shape and reinforcement and you'll get there carl rogers came along and said no it's about the human potential the lies latent within each one of us and if we could just experience unconditional acceptance and warm positive regard it would blossom like a flower in the 20th century [00:04:20]

i think you could make an argument that one of the great most influential theories of change was actually the 12 steps people trapped in alcoholism or later on other forms of addiction how are you going to change well nagging people didn't seem to work just pain didn't seem to work going into a hospital didn't seem to work trying harder didn't seem to work so admit i i got this problem before which i am powerless and my life has become unmanageable [00:04:45]

and then the next step came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity and then the next steps you know theories of of change there's a series of steps that are logically coherently related to each other made the decision i would turn my life and my will over to the care of god i can't he can i think i'll let him now that brings us to the big question if you were to look throughout human history [00:05:18]

all the geniuses all the governments all the movements all the businesses all the economies that have ever existed and you were to ask yourself the question what is the most influential theory of change of all time in any sphere what would it be and i will tell you simply as a matter of history whether you agree with it or not whether you think that it is wise or foolish beneficial or destructive nothing else comes close [00:05:43]

one day a carpenter who was said to have been crucified failed humiliated and then resurrected stood with a group of 11 people that nobody in their right mind would ever have selected fisherman tax collector political activist zealot and here's what he said here's the theory of change all authority has been given to me so now you go as you're traveling all around the world and make disciples baptizing them in the name of the father and the son and the holy spirit [00:06:19]

and teaching them to obey everything that i commanded you and i will be with you and that movement uh is unprecedented its impact was so strong that billions of people have had their lives changed by it its influence was so great that it caused the founding of places like oxford and cambridge and harvard and yale and the red cross and compassion international and hospitals and untold institutions [00:06:54]

dallas writes let us simply focus upon the application of matthew 28 18-20 verses 18-20 this is god's plan for the growth and prospering of local congregations as well as the church at large as well as the world it is his plan for spiritual formation in the human community number one we make apprentices of jesus it is these of which the local congregation of the called out ones are do consist [00:08:00]

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?