Courage to Change

The sermon begins by identifying the current context of the congregation: the COVID-19 pandemic, violent protests, and widespread anxiety and fear in society. The pastor calls believers to use courage to participate in elections and express their faith. The story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 is presented as a model of true courage in Christian life, with three main aspects that need to be developed.

The first section focuses on "Courage to Know Oneself as a Sinner." Zacchaeus is a chief tax collector, despised and hated by the people because he became rich by extorting taxes. Despite being short and mocked, Zacchaeus has the courage to climb a sycamore tree to see Jesus. The sermon explains that Zacchaeus clearly recognizes himself as a sinner in need of salvation. This distinguishes Zacchaeus from the self-righteous Pharisees, who consider themselves righteous but are also sinners. The sermon emphasizes that the eyes of the spirit must be opened to see oneself as a sinner needing salvation and transformation.

The second section explores "Courage to Invite Jesus into One's House." When Jesus calls Zacchaeus down from the tree, Zacchaeus hurries down and joyfully welcomes Jesus into his house publicly, knowing he will be mocked and condemned. The sermon points out that inviting Jesus into one's house means allowing Jesus to be completely Lord of one's life, from work, time, and possessions to the most private matters. When Jesus enters the house, salvation comes to that house. The sermon emphasizes that many people want to change their lives without needing Jesus, but that is self-deception. Zacchaeus, though rich in material wealth, recognizes that he is spiritually poor and courageously seeks and welcomes Jesus.

The third section discusses "Courage for Jesus to Change—Confession and Restitution." The true sign of inviting Jesus into one's life is concrete change. Zacchaeus stands before Jesus and declares that he will give half his possessions to the poor, and if he has defrauded anyone, he will repay four times the amount. The sermon emphasizes that faith in Jesus must be demonstrated through action, not merely words. Repentance, confession, and restitution require true courage because it is not easy to confess wrongdoing, apologize, and return what has been taken. The sermon concludes by asking the congregation how their lives have changed since believing in Jesus, and presents examples of people who have allowed Jesus to completely transform their lives.