Sermon Outlines: How to Change the World

Webster defines a hero as, "A mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability; an illustrious warrior; a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities; one that shows great courage."

Most of us feel anything but noble, and we are certainly not mystical beings who have superhuman power and strength. The good news is, in God's economy, a hero is something very different. Throughout history, men and women from all walks of life have impacted their world in unexpected ways. Even the smallest gesture, birthed from a non-condemning heart, can change the course of someone's life.

Light Up Your World

Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Many Christians are afraid to move outside familiar surroundings. They go to church every week, attend Bible studies, hang out with like-minded people, Tweet verses a few times a day, and venture into the world only when they have to.

Jesus went out among the people. He didn't gossip about the woman caught in the act of adultery, and he didn't lock himself in the temple because he was afraid he might run into a sinner. I've had a few very disheartening conversations with people who have been hurt, even humiliated, by Christians who made them feel like they were worthless.

Love People Like Jesus Loves Us

I know from personal experience how hard it is to find your way in life. To understand that it isn't us who saves people, it is God. It's hard to look upon pure evil and not want to run the other way, but remember what Jesus said to the thief who was crucified beside him, "Today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).

Accept people where they are, and realize that it's only by the grace of God that you are still standing. Think about the kindness others showed you, even when you didn't deserve it. Remember how God lifted you up after you had fallen so low that you thought you would never see the light of day again.

Psalm 51:15-18 says, "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."

God's heart is very tender toward those who are suffering. A loving hand extended to someone who is feeling hopeless may be the catalyst that moves them to do great things in our world.

Source: Ministrymaker Sermon Outlines