Do I Really Have to Change???

Repentance is more than saying “I’m sorry.” It’s a radical reorientation of the heart, mind, and life in response to God’s presence. In this message from Luke 3, we meet John the Baptist in the wilderness—sent by God as a herald, preparing people to receive the coming Messiah. But John’s message isn’t soft, trendy, or comfortable. It’s deeply confrontational, calling God’s people to clear the path in their hearts for the arrival of their King.

This sermon explores three major movements of the passage:

Repentance as a Lifestyle, Not a One-Time Decision – Repentance means turning from the old self and fully surrendering to Jesus in every area—your work, relationships, habits, and identity.

Cultural Christianity vs. True Discipleship – Many people claim the name of Jesus while living unchanged lives. The message challenges listeners to ask: “Have I added Jesus to my plans, or surrendered my plans to Him?”

Preparing the Way for the Lord – Just as the people of Israel had to smooth the road for a visiting king, we must clear the spiritual clutter—pride, sin, entitlement—to welcome Jesus with sincerity and reverence.

With humor, heart, and powerful clarity, the message examines the dangerous comforts of a faith that refuses to be transformed and invites us to a deeper, richer life of full surrender. It asks each of us:

What part of my life have I withheld from Jesus?

Have I confused confession with repentance?

Am I ready to respond when Jesus calls—not just once, but daily?

This sermon isn’t about guilt—it’s about grace-driven transformation. It’s about returning to the true Gospel: not moralism, not therapy, not tradition—but the power of Jesus Christ to bring life, freedom, and daily renewal.