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55m"Come and Die" - The Call to Freedom from Religiosity — Santosh Poonen — May 1, 2022
Santosh Poonen · May 2
9mRespecting Boundaries in Church Family Relationships -- Santosh Poonen -- April 3, 2016
Santosh Poonen · Apr 21
1h 9mProving the Power of Christ’s Resurrection in Our Lives -- Santosh Poonen -- April 17, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Apr 18
1h 5m5 Lessons God Has Taught Me this Past Year -- Santosh Poonen -- April 3, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Apr 4
59mThe Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 2: Spiritual Songs -- Santosh Poonen -- March 20, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Mar 21
1h 5mThe Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 1: Prophecy -- Santosh Poonen -- March 6, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Mar 7
50mLet God Glorify Himself at Your Expense -- Santosh Poonen -- February 20, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Feb 21
51mLiving With a Sense of Urgency Before Christ's Return -- Santosh Poonen -- February 6, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Feb 12
1h 8mLearning the Spiritual Lesson from the Israelites -- Santosh Poonen -- January 23, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Jan 24
6mWorship: Recognizing My Worthlessness and Christ's Worthiness -- Santosh Poonen -- November 13, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Jan 18
1h 10mThe Taste of God-Given Christ-Likeness -- Santosh Poonen -- January 2, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Jan 3
17mWords of Encouragement -- Dave Bertsch, Chetan Chadalavada, Santosh Poonen -- December 26, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 31
8mWhy We Call Him Jesus -- Santosh Poonen -- December 25, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 26
52mGod is Looking for "Nobodies" to be His Stewards -- Santosh Poonen -- December 12, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 13
1h 12mGod Wants You to Live Free From All Anxiety -- Santosh Poonen -- December 5, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 6
57mIt is the Fear of God That Will Keep You From Sin -- Santosh Poonen -- November 28, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 29
1h 5mThe Goal of the New Covenant is to Win Christ -- Santosh Poonen -- November 21, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 22
10mRealizing Our True Purpose #5: The Journey to Our Destination -- Santosh Poonen -- November 19, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19
10mRealizing Our True Purpose #4: God's Power in Us -- Santosh Poonen -- November 18, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19
10mRealizing Our True Purpose #3: Our Response to God -- Santosh Poonen -- November 17, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19
11mRealizing Our True Purpose #2: God's Solution in Jesus -- Santosh Poonen -- November 16, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19
9mRealizing Our True Purpose #1: Our Problem of Sin -- Santosh Poonen -- November 15, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19
1h 7mSpiritual Backsliding Comes Through Neglect -- Santosh Poonen -- November 3, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 4
56mJesus Gave Himself Up Fully So That His Bride Would Be Pure -- Santosh Poonen -- October 31, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 1
August 4 | Daily Devotion | The Mark Of New Covenant Blessing Is Not Wealth And Health | Zac Poonen
Zac Poonen · 11m · CFC Daily Devotions
True blessing under the New Covenant is not measured by material wealth and health, but by spiritual transformation and union with Christ. The mark of God's blessing is internal holiness and a clear vision of Christ, not external prosperity.
55mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
"Come and Die" - The Call to Freedom from Religiosity — Santosh Poonen — May 1, 2022
Santosh Poonen · May 2, 2022 · 55m
The speaker warns against the danger of becoming merely religious rather than truly spiritual, emphasizing that true faith is not based on external performance or adherence to rules. He uses the analogy of working for 'food that perishes' versus working for the 'food that endures to eternal life,' urging the audience to focus on eternal priorities. The message concludes by pointing to Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of unwavering faith, regardless of immediate circumstances or material provision.
9mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
transcribingRespecting Boundaries in Church Family Relationships -- Santosh Poonen -- April 3, 2016
Santosh Poonen · Apr 21, 2022 · 9m
This message addresses the importance of respecting boundaries within the church family. It emphasizes that healthy relationships require clear boundaries to prevent misunderstandings and maintain spiritual health. The core message is about establishing and honoring these limits for the sake of mutual respect and spiritual growth.
1h 9mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Proving the Power of Christ’s Resurrection in Our Lives -- Santosh Poonen -- April 17, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Apr 18, 2022 · 1h 9m
The speaker emphasizes that every member of the local church has a responsibility to participate in the spiritual life of the body, comparing the church to a cup filled with the life-giving water of Christ. He warns against superficial spiritual care, referencing Jeremiah 6:13, where false leaders superficially heal deep brokenness. Ultimately, the message is to be a vessel filled by the Holy Spirit to share the true life of Jesus with others, regardless of one's perceived ministry role.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
5 Lessons God Has Taught Me this Past Year -- Santosh Poonen -- April 3, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Apr 4, 2022 · 1h 5m
The speaker encourages listeners to examine their hearts in preparation for meeting Christ, emphasizing that the goal is to become more like Jesus. He draws heavily from 1 John 3, stressing that true believers will purify themselves and not judge others. The message concludes with a reflection on Psalm 139, urging believers to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit's search and examination.
59mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 2: Spiritual Songs -- Santosh Poonen -- March 20, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Mar 21, 2022 · 59m
The speaker discusses the marks of God's presence in a church, emphasizing that the goal of teaching should be to speak in simple, relatable language, rather than impressing people with knowledge. He stresses the importance of adhering to God's Word, particularly regarding principles like prophecy, and encourages the congregation to make foundational life decisions—committing to Jesus, choosing godly partners, and prioritizing God's kingdom above all else.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 1: Prophecy -- Santosh Poonen -- March 6, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Mar 7, 2022 · 1h 5m
The speaker argues that the true test for the presence of God in a church is not emotional feeling or physical sensation, but rather adherence to the Word of God, which serves as the only reliable 'microscope.' He specifically points to prophecy as a mark of God's presence, contrasting it with speaking in tongues. True prophecy, according to 1 Corinthians 14, results in an unbeliever being convicted and called to account by all, leading them to acknowledge God's presence.
50mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Let God Glorify Himself at Your Expense -- Santosh Poonen -- February 20, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Feb 21, 2022 · 50m
The speaker reflects on Psalm 8, marveling at the vastness of creation and contrasting it with humanity's small stature. He emphasizes the incredible privilege that God lavished such love on humanity, culminating in the incarnation of Christ. The message pivots to the New Covenant, defining it as following Jesus, citing John 17 and the repeated call to 'follow me' throughout the Gospels.
51mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Living With a Sense of Urgency Before Christ's Return -- Santosh Poonen -- February 6, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Feb 12, 2022 · 51m
The speaker urges the congregation to live with a profound sense of urgency because Christ's return is imminent. He warns against adopting a mindset of waiting for physical evidence, like the Antichrist, before fully committing to Christ. Drawing parallels from Noah's Ark, he emphasizes that when the door closes, there is no more opportunity for repentance, urging believers to imitate God in all aspects of life.
1h 8mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Learning the Spiritual Lesson from the Israelites -- Santosh Poonen -- January 23, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Jan 24, 2022 · 1h 8m
The speaker draws lessons from the history of Israel, emphasizing that the Old Testament narratives serve as examples to prevent believers from repeating past mistakes. He points to Deuteronomy 30 as a promise of restoration for those who repent and obey God, and references 1 Corinthians 10 to show that the Israelites' journey through the wilderness was meant to teach spiritual lessons. Ultimately, the message is a call for believers to learn from Israel's failures and live in the freedom Christ has provided.
6mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Worship: Recognizing My Worthlessness and Christ's Worthiness -- Santosh Poonen -- November 13, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Jan 18, 2022 · 6m
The central message is that true devotion to Christ involves recognizing one's own worthlessness before His majesty. The speaker contrasts earthly desires for community or comfort with the profound desire to simply behold Jesus' beauty and glory forever. True worship, therefore, is characterized by humility, acknowledging that one is an unworthy slave before God.
1h 10mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Taste of God-Given Christ-Likeness -- Santosh Poonen -- January 2, 2022
Santosh Poonen · Jan 3, 2022 · 1h 10m
The speaker encourages the congregation to shift their anxiety from earthly concerns to an eager anticipation of Christ's return. He emphasizes that true spiritual maturity involves being humble—choosing the way of being a nobody—so that God can use them. Furthermore, he warns against passing judgment on others, urging instead that believers follow the Lord wholeheartedly and remain in the love of God.
17mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Words of Encouragement -- Dave Bertsch, Chetan Chadalavada, Santosh Poonen -- December 26, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 31, 2021 · 17m
The message emphasizes that true help and understanding come from acknowledging one's helplessness, drawing parallels from the woman of Canaan's faith and the Israelites' need for Christ. The speaker advises believers to adopt a humble, childlike attitude, remembering that the ultimate goal is knowing God and Jesus Christ, which constitutes eternal life, rather than accumulating religious works.
8mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Why We Call Him Jesus -- Santosh Poonen -- December 25, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 26, 2021 · 8m
The speaker encourages listeners to move beyond merely knowing the name of Jesus and instead experience the fullness of who He is. He details Jesus' divine attributes using Isaiah 9, describing Him as the one whose government rests on His shoulders, the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Eternal Father, and the Prince of Peace. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that the name Jesus signifies salvation—a freedom from being defeated by sin, lust, anger, or anxiety.
52mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
God is Looking for "Nobodies" to be His Stewards -- Santosh Poonen -- December 12, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 13, 2021 · 52m
The central message is that drawing near to God requires accepting His grace, as He has built the bridge for us. True Christian love, exemplified by Christ's love for the Church, cannot be manufactured by human effort but must be filled by the divine love of God. This divine love requires commitment to building up the body of Christ, not just attending services sporadically.
1h 12mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
God Wants You to Live Free From All Anxiety -- Santosh Poonen -- December 5, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Dec 6, 2021 · 1h 12m
The speaker urges the congregation to prioritize beholding the delightfulness of the Lord over worldly pursuits like money or career advancement. He emphasizes that true spiritual life comes from dependence on the Holy Spirit, not just attending services. The core message is to focus on knowing God's love and desiring to see Jesus clearly when He returns, stripping away all earthly distractions.
57mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
It is the Fear of God That Will Keep You From Sin -- Santosh Poonen -- November 28, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 29, 2021 · 57m
The central message is that while God's kindness leads to repentance, it is the fear of God that leads to true victory over sin and becoming an overcomer. The speaker emphasizes treasuring God's word in our hearts, as this internal knowledge is what sustains us against sin, rather than merely speaking about it. He urges the congregation to live as obedient children, striving for holiness in all behaviors.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Goal of the New Covenant is to Win Christ -- Santosh Poonen -- November 21, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 22, 2021 · 1h 5m
The central message emphasizes that true life and adequacy come solely from the Holy Spirit, not from personal effort or adherence to religious rules. The speaker warns against the danger of living by the 'letter of the law,' which can lead to death, even within a seemingly religious community. He urges the congregation to seek the power of the Holy Spirit as the only source of life that truly pleases God.
10mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Realizing Our True Purpose #5: The Journey to Our Destination -- Santosh Poonen -- November 19, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19, 2021 · 10m
The sermon emphasizes that life on earth is an 'entrance exam' for eternity, which can only be passed by accepting Christ's perfect life and resurrection. While we must work and play diligently, keeping eternity in mind, the focus should be on living according to Micah 6:8: being kind, merciful, and humble. Ultimately, the message encourages trust in God's plan, reminding listeners that nothing can defeat them because God's love is constant.
10mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Realizing Our True Purpose #4: God's Power in Us -- Santosh Poonen -- November 18, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19, 2021 · 10m
The central message is that salvation is more than just forgiveness; believers must be empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist the ongoing attraction to sin. God desires believers to become holy and to act as messengers, which requires relying on Christ's power within, rather than trying to live right by personal strength. The speaker emphasizes getting back up after failure and regularly reading the Bible to grow in obedience.
10mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Realizing Our True Purpose #3: Our Response to God -- Santosh Poonen -- November 17, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19, 2021 · 10m
The central message is that while God has already provided the solution to sin through Jesus, one must actively respond to receive its benefit. This response requires three actions: honestly admitting sin and the need for salvation, repenting by deciding to turn away from sin, and believing in Jesus' ability to save completely. True transformation comes when God replaces our 'stony heart' with a new, clean heart through the Holy Spirit.
11mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Realizing Our True Purpose #2: God's Solution in Jesus -- Santosh Poonen -- November 16, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19, 2021 · 11m
The central message is that humanity's sin separates us from God, and good works cannot atone for this sin. The only solution is the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who lived sinlessly and died for our sins. Through His death and resurrection, God not only forgives us (justification) but also defeats death and the devil, offering us eternal life and a path to walk with Him.
9mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Realizing Our True Purpose #1: Our Problem of Sin -- Santosh Poonen -- November 15, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 19, 2021 · 9m
The speaker explains that human life on earth is merely preparation for eternity, comparing it to a single, irreversible entrance exam. He details that humanity was made in God's image to share in His nature, but sin—the opposite of God's nature—broke this fellowship. Because all have sinned, the consequence is separation from God, making understanding the seriousness of sin crucial before hearing the good news.
1h 7mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Spiritual Backsliding Comes Through Neglect -- Santosh Poonen -- November 3, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 4, 2021 · 1h 7m
The speaker emphasizes that spiritual backsliding often occurs through neglect, not outright rejection of the gospel. He encourages the congregation to maintain a constant thirst for the Holy Spirit and to pay close attention to the word, understanding that all teaching must be seen as manifesting in Jesus Christ. The core warning is about neglecting the salvation offered in the new covenant, which requires active nurturing of the life of Christ within.
56mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Jesus Gave Himself Up Fully So That His Bride Would Be Pure -- Santosh Poonen -- October 31, 2021
Santosh Poonen · Nov 1, 2021 · 56m
The speaker emphasizes that true spiritual revival is not found in temporary emotional highs or spectacular events, but in a steady, consistent growth in holiness, likened to the sun rising brighter and brighter. He stresses that the ultimate test of faith is love—loving God and neighbor with all one's being—which surpasses any miraculous gift. Furthermore, he cautions against becoming judgmental, reminding the congregation that all grace and life are gifts from God.