Your Story Can Change the World The story of one person, Jesus Christ, changed the whole world forever. Now Jesus wants to use your story to change the world. We will learn how today in: Difference Maker: Your Story Can Change the World.

Memory Verse: For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10Christ created us to do good works & to change the world!

1) Just Tell ______________ ______________

John 9 – Jesus heals a Blind ManSome of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them. John 9:16

John 9:17-34 – They asked the man – “I think He’s a prophet.” They asked his parents – “Go ask Him, he’s an adult.” Pharisees said, “Jesus is a sinner. He healed on the Sabbath.”

“I don’t know whether He is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!” John 9:25We don’t need to have all the answers; we just have to say what we know about the change in our own life.

House of Praise Pastor Lon Dean10/2/16 *All scripture is New Living Translation unless noted otherwise pg.1

2) Sharing should be _________________ and ______________ Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it. John 9:32-33All I know is what God did for me.

“You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue. John 9:34

3) Leave the ______________ up to GodIt’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. 1 Corinthians 3:7-8We can’t save souls, only Jesus can, but our story is a seed that God can grow.

4) God Wants Your ______________ Story to be Told

God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of His great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in Him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16God can use your past sins to give others hope.

In Acts 25 Paul is brought before Festus, the governor. His brother-in-law King Agrippa is in town visiting. He decides to hear Paul’s charges personally. Paul told his unique story.

As the Jewish leaders are well aware, I was given a thorough Jewish training from my earliest childhood among my own people and in Jerusalem. If they would admit it, they know that I House of Praise Pastor Lon Dean10/2/16 *All scripture is New Living Translation unless noted otherwise pg.2

have been a member of the Pharisees, the strictest sect of our religion. Acts 26:4-5Here’s where I studied, I was a Pharisee.

I used to believe that I ought to do everything I could to oppose the very name of Jesus the Nazarene. Acts 26:9Here’s my sin. I persecuted Christians.

Your Majesty, as I was on the road, a light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on me and my companions. We all fell down, and I heard a voice saying to me in … ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? Acts 26:13-14Here’s how I met Christ. On the Road to Damascus.

Saved for a reason: Now get to your feet! For I have appeared to you to appoint you as my servant and witness. Tell people that you have seen me, and tell them what I will show you in the future. Acts 26:17-18Tell your Story.

“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’ Acts 26:27-28

Paul said, “Short time or long-I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.” Acts 26:29

Your Story’s 4 Parts:1. What was life like before you knew Jesus?2. What happened that caused you to repent?3. What happened at the moment of salvation?4. What has happened since becoming a follower of Jesus?

Your unique story is the story of Jesus in your life.

I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13

House of Praise Pastor Lon Dean10/2/16 *All scripture is New Living Translation unless noted otherwise pg.3

The goal of telling your story is so others will know Jesus.

Your Giving Makes a Difference.I really don’t need to write to you about this ministry of giving for the believers in Jerusalem. For I know how eager you are to help. 1 Corinthians 9:1-2More people hear the story of Jesus because we give. We should be eager to help.

**Check your “Next Step” below as a reminder to yourself but please check it on the connect card and drop it in the offering bucket also. Thanks!**

My Next Steps this Week:

House of Praise Pastor Lon Dean10/2/16 *All scripture is New Living Translation unless noted otherwise pg.4

Today I Committed to: Attend a Connect Group THIS WEEK, to

become a Difference Maker. Prepare MY Story to tell others.

Suggested ResourceDifference Maker: Using your Everyday Life for Eternal ImpactBy Nelson Searcy

God has uniquely positioned you to influence those around you for him. This practical book will show you to begin using your everyday life to make a difference in the lives of those who don't know Jesus.FREE this week only in group

Who will you tell your story to this week?

House of Praise Pastor Lon Dean10/2/16 *All scripture is New Living Translation unless noted otherwise pg.5