Last night, we gathered at church to watch a thought-provoking film called The Jesus Revolution. The story unfolds with Smith, a steadfast pastor, and his small congregation navigating the ever-changing world while resisting the trends of the 1960s.

Smith, content with his traditional methods, faces a dilemma when his teenage daughter unexpectedly brings home a Jesus-loving hippie hitchhiker named Lonnie Frisbee. Frisbee, with his long hair and free-spirited nature, stands in stark contrast to the conservative Smith.

Through this encounter, The Jesus Revolution reminds us that the gospel calls for humility, selflessness, and sometimes even adapting our methods while keeping the core message intact. It echoes the truth found in Ecclesiastes 3:11, which speaks of God planting eternity in the human heart and emphasizes that true joy cannot be found in material possessions but only through Christ.

Frisbee sheds light on the drug use among young people, attributing it to their quest for purpose. He shares that an entire generation is currently searching for God and reflects on how they once believed that drugs like acid would save the world—a notion that turned out to be false. Frisbee points out that the Woodstock generation and today’s generation alike often seek meaning in all the wrong places. He also expresses concern about how some churches are turning away young people who are yearning for spiritual connection. In light of this, he challenges readers to introspect and consider whether they might inadvertently hinder a Jesus Revolution within their own churches, neighborhoods, schools, and beyond.

As we look at 2023, people are searching for various things based on their unique circumstances and aspirations. While it is challenging to generalize everyone’s desires, some common themes emerge:

1. Purpose and Meaning: Many individuals seek a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. They yearn for fulfillment beyond material possessions and strive to make a positive impact on the world around them.
2. Connection and Community: In an increasingly digital age, people crave genuine connections and a sense of belonging. They seek communities where they can find support, understanding, and shared values.
3. Well-being and Mental Health: The importance of well-being and mental health has gained significant recognition in recent years. People are actively seeking ways to prioritize self-care, manage stress, and foster emotional resilience.
4. Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: Concerns about climate change and environmental degradation have prompted many individuals to prioritize sustainable practices. They are looking for ways to reduce their ecological footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
5. Equity and Social Justice: People are increasingly aware of social inequalities and injustices. They strive for a more equitable society where everyone has equal opportunities regardless of their background or identity.

These are just a few examples of what people may be looking for in 2023. It’s important to remember that individual aspirations can vary greatly based on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and evolving societal dynamics.

Many churches, older pastors, and senior congregations may find it challenging to address these topics, as they perceive them as potentially leading people away from the fundamental teachings of the Bible and the message of Christ. This parallel can be drawn to the movie, where drugs were seen as a hindrance to spiritual growth. However, the movie’s response was not to condemn those using drugs but rather to extend love and compassion towards them. The aim was to demonstrate that Jesus, not drugs, held the key to saving the world.

By emphasizing love and understanding, the movie conveyed the transformative power of Christ’s message. It encouraged viewers to approach individuals struggling with drug use or other challenges with empathy and kindness. The underlying message was that through genuine care and support, people can experience the life-changing love of Jesus.

This approach can be applied to various situations faced by churches, older pastors, and senior Christians today. Instead of alienating individuals who may have different perspectives or struggles, embracing them with love and compassion can create an environment where they feel safe to explore their faith journey. By demonstrating the love of Jesus through their actions, churches can inspire positive change and help individuals discover the true path to salvation.

Sometimes the barriers we face in reaching this generation for Christ is US. As Christians, it’s essential to remember that our journey of faith is not just about our relationship with God but also about our relationship with ourselves.

Self-confrontation is the process of examining our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in light of God’s truth. It requires humility and a willingness to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of our lives that need transformation.

Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Listed below are some suggestions on how to confront yourself to overcome barriers in your Christian life.:

1. Self-Examination through Prayer:

– Take intentional time in prayer to invite God to search your heart and reveal any areas that need His transformation.

– Ask the Holy Spirit to convict you of sin, unhealthy patterns, or attitudes that may hinder your relationship with God and others.

2. Reflect on Scripture:

– Regularly read and meditate on the Bible, allowing God’s Word to be a mirror that reflects your inner self (Hebrews 4:12).

– Consider journaling your reflections on how specific passages apply to your life.

3. Seek Accountability:

– Engage in honest conversations with fellow believers who can hold you accountable in your journey of self-confrontation (Galatians 6:1).

– Be open to their feedback and guidance.

4. Practice Self-Compassion:

– While confronting yourself, remember that God’s grace and forgiveness are abundant. Avoid harsh self-judgment and instead approach self-correction with love and grace (Ephesians 4:32).

5. Pursue Growth and Transformation:

– Identify areas in your life where you need to grow and seek the Lord’s guidance in making positive changes.

– Actively engage in spiritual disciplines like fasting, worship, and serving others to facilitate transformation (Romans 12:2).

Confronting oneself as a Christian is not about self-condemnation but about allowing God to prune and refine us. Through self-examination, we position ourselves for growth, increased intimacy with God, and a life that reflects His love and character.

As you embark on this journey of self-confrontation, remember the promise found in Philippians 1:6 (NIV): “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” God is faithful to transform us as we yield ourselves to His transformative power. Embrace self-confrontation as a path to becoming more like Christ and living out the abundant life He offers us.

Today, look within yourself and ask God to prune any thoughts, actions or anything hidden in your heart that might hinder you from starting or stoking the fire of a Jesus Revolution in your life, your family, your community, your work, your church or your friends.