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1h 5mGod's Good News in the Letter to the Romans — Zac Poonen — September 4, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 5
41mYou Are Very Valuable to God — Zac Poonen — September 1, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 2
1h 3mAmazing Truths from Genesis Chapter One — Zac Poonen — August 28, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 30
1h 5m6. Never Doubt Christ's Love for You — Zac Poonen — August 25, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27
1h 19m5. Seeing Jesus Clearly in the Bible — Zac Poonen — August 25, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27
1h 7m4. Following Jesus On the Narrow Way — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27
1h 15mGeneral Q&A — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27
1h 18mMarriage Q&A — Zac and Annie Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27
1h 11m3. Submitting to Christ’s Authority in His Body — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26
1h 5m2. The Holy Spirit Reveals the Hidden Life of Jesus — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26
57m1. Knowing Jesus Christ Personally More and More — Zac Poonen — August 23, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26
1h 2mI Believe, Therefore I Confess — Zac Poonen — July 17, 2024
Zac Poonen · Jul 18
1mWe take even small sins seriously because its eternal life or death! #spoonen youtu.be/Vuc4xi02aSk
Zac Poonen · Jun 5
1h 4mThe New Covenant Explained Simply — Zac Poonen — May 1, 2024
Zac Poonen · May 3
1h 2mWe Must Judge Ourselves Every Day — Zac Poonen — April 7, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
1h 5mJesus Listened to the Father and Blessed Needy Individuals — Zac Poonen — April 7, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
1h 2mThe Gospel Explained Fully in Romans — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
1h 10mQuestions and Answers — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
1h 5mDiscipleship and Obeying Jesus' Commands — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
59mSoulishness and Spirituality — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9
1h 0mAvoiding The Cross is like Worshipping Satan — Zac Poonen — April 5, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 6
53mKnow This - That Satan is a Defeated Enemy — Zac Poonen — March 31, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 1
11mThe Meaning of Water-Baptism — Zac Poonen — March 31, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 1
58mFollow Jesus' Example in Studying the Bible — Zac Poonen — March 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Mar 7
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.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
God's Good News in the Letter to the Romans — Zac Poonen — September 4, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 5, 2024 · 1h 5m
The speaker provides an overview of the Book of Romans, emphasizing that it is the best explanation of the Gospel. He clarifies that salvation involves three tenses—from the penalty of sin (past), to the power of sin (present), and finally to the presence of sin (future). Crucially, he stresses that true righteousness requires not just believing in salvation by faith, but actively living daily in constant dependence upon God, like a branch dependent on the vine. Furthermore, he points out that the initial step into sin is a lack of thankfulness, making gratitude a foundational aspect of Christian life.
41mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
You Are Very Valuable to God — Zac Poonen — September 1, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 2, 2024 · 41m
Satan attempts to make us feel worthless, but God created humanity uniquely, forming us from dust and breathing life into us, which demonstrates our immense value. The speaker emphasizes that we are valuable to God regardless of our achievements, and this security comes from knowing that Jesus promises not to leave us as orphans, but instead to send the Holy Spirit as our constant Helper.
1h 3mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Amazing Truths from Genesis Chapter One — Zac Poonen — August 28, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 30, 2024 · 1h 3m
The speaker encourages the audience to study the Old Testament, noting that it is filled with symbolic language pointing to truths in the New Covenant, including Jesus. He explains that the origin of sin was not an external action but an internal desire—pride—when a created being sought to exalt itself above God's given position. Therefore, true faith and change must begin in the heart, not just in outward confession.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
6. Never Doubt Christ's Love for You — Zac Poonen — August 25, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27, 2024 · 1h 5m
The speaker emphasizes that true Christian accomplishment is entirely dependent on Christ, quoting John 15:5, "Without me you can do zero." He warns that worldly achievements, even impressive ministries, will be exposed as 'wood, hay, and stubble' at the judgment seat of Christ. Furthermore, he stresses that the deepest test is the heart's love for money, which must be surrendered to God, as one cannot serve both God and money.
1h 19mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
5. Seeing Jesus Clearly in the Bible — Zac Poonen — August 25, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27, 2024 · 1h 19m
The speaker emphasizes the vital role of prayer, comparing the church to a body where prayer provides unseen strength for those who speak. He distinguishes between a general preacher and a prophet, noting that true prophetic preaching speaks directly to the specific needs of the group present. The talk concludes by cautioning against believing accounts of visions or supposed trips to heaven, citing scripture to show that such experiences are often unreliable or not permitted to be spoken about.
1h 7mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
4. Following Jesus On the Narrow Way — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27, 2024 · 1h 7m
The sermon emphasizes that the Christian life requires following Jesus on the narrow way, drawing parallels between the journey to find a bride and the spiritual journey toward Christ. The speaker urges listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus, who is the author and perfecter of our faith, recognizing that enduring the cross and daily self-denial is superior to any earthly miracle. True discipleship means having an unwavering focus on Christ's glory rather than the difficulties of the journey.
1h 15mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
General Q&A — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27, 2024 · 1h 15m
The speaker discusses developing faith, emphasizing that it comes from hearing and meditating on God's Word, particularly the New Testament. He advises starting with simple faith in Christ's forgiveness and warns against seeking great things in faith before mastering the small things. Regarding sin, he affirms that overcoming specific sins is possible through the Holy Spirit's help and persistent effort, contrasting this with being a mere robot by emphasizing the value of free will and genuine love.
1h 18mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Marriage Q&A — Zac and Annie Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 27, 2024 · 1h 18m
The speaker encourages listeners to strive for perfection in their relationships, emphasizing that Jesus's life is dedicated to interceding for us, saving us from our lowest points to the greatest heights. Regarding marriage, the speaker advises that while openness is vital, the goal of sharing information should always be building fellowship, not mere honesty. He also offers advice for young women considering marriage, stressing the importance of education and having some career goal.
1h 11mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
3. Submitting to Christ’s Authority in His Body — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26, 2024 · 1h 11m
The sermon emphasizes that true Christian life requires submission not only to Christ's direct guidance but also to the local church's authority, viewing the body metaphorically. The speaker contrasts self-pity with true sorrow for others and stresses that even knowledgeable or morally upright Christians still require the anointing of the Holy Spirit to serve. Ultimately, one must be connected to the head (Christ) and obedient to the body (the local church) to be a functional member.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
2. The Holy Spirit Reveals the Hidden Life of Jesus — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26, 2024 · 1h 5m
The speaker advises listeners to start their day by spending time in prayer with God, treating it as a habit, and to sing songs to Jesus. Drawing from Hebrews 8, he emphasizes that knowing God starts with the least, like a child, rather than intellectual prowess. He concludes by encouraging believers to adopt the mindset of a little child—one that simply enjoys God without concern for status or cleverness—to progress deeper into the Kingdom of Heaven.
57mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
1. Knowing Jesus Christ Personally More and More — Zac Poonen — August 23, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26, 2024 · 57m
The speaker encourages the audience to deepen their personal relationship with Jesus by becoming consciously aware of His presence in daily activities, such as singing. He emphasizes that this requires persistent practice, drawing parallels between developing awareness in worship and understanding the core gospel message from Acts 2. Ultimately, the message points to dwelling in God's presence, which the speaker asserts is the source of fullness of joy, contrasting it with a 'subnormal' Christian life.
1h 2mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
I Believe, Therefore I Confess — Zac Poonen — July 17, 2024
Zac Poonen · Jul 18, 2024 · 1h 2m
The speaker emphasizes that true faith is not merely intellectual belief but a complete, helpless dependence upon God, likened to a branch remaining attached to a tree. Overcoming the world requires confidence in three things: God's unconditional love, His almighty power, and His perfect wisdom. Furthermore, faith must be outwardly expressed, as believing in the heart must be confessed with the mouth, resulting in salvation.
1mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
We take even small sins seriously because its eternal life or death! #spoonen youtu.be/Vuc4xi02aSk
Zac Poonen · Jun 5, 2024 · 1m
The speaker emphasizes that sin, even seemingly small sins, must be taken with extreme seriousness because the stakes are eternal life or death. He uses the analogy of germs in surgery to illustrate how unseen, small things can have deadly consequences, drawing a parallel to the spiritual danger of sin. This underscores the need for high standards within the church.
1h 4mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The New Covenant Explained Simply — Zac Poonen — May 1, 2024
Zac Poonen · May 3, 2024 · 1h 4m
The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the New Covenant, noting that many aspects of the Bible are overlooked in modern preaching. He advises preaching simply, like Jesus did, and warns against the temptation to impress people with knowledge rather than genuinely helping them. A core message is the necessity of transparency and honesty in Christian life, contrasting it with hypocrisy.
1h 2mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
We Must Judge Ourselves Every Day — Zac Poonen — April 7, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 1h 2m
The speaker critiques the hypocrisy in religious practice, arguing that outward displays of piety, like singing or worship, are meaningless without genuine heart conviction. He urges listeners to direct their praise and devotion solely to Jesus Christ, recognizing Him as the most important presence in any gathering. True faith requires a heart-felt commitment that transcends performance, as God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Jesus Listened to the Father and Blessed Needy Individuals — Zac Poonen — April 7, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 1h 5m
Jesus demonstrated a pattern of focusing on individuals rather than just large crowds, often being led by the Father in his actions. The speaker emphasizes that true Christian service requires obedience and waiting for the Lord's prompting, rather than being driven by personal need or ambition. He encourages developing the daily habit of opening one's heart to hear God's guidance first thing in the morning.
1h 2mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Gospel Explained Fully in Romans — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 1h 2m
The speaker argues that Romans provides the most systematic explanation of the Full Gospel, detailing how the Holy Spirit builds up God's purpose for humanity. He analyzes passages in Romans, particularly concerning the fallen state of man, emphasizing that the first step downward into sin is failing to honor God or give thanks. The message warns that sin, if taken lightly, leads to severe judgment, urging listeners to prioritize thankfulness.
1h 10mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Questions and Answers — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 1h 10m
The speaker advises that to hear God's voice, one must maintain a clear conscience by confessing sins and making amends. Furthermore, regular meditation on Scripture is crucial, as God has provided His voice through written word. Assurance in Christ comes from believing God's promises, such as John 6:37, rather than relying on feelings. Finally, the speaker distinguishes between judging (condemning) and discerning, emphasizing that while we must avoid bad company for purity, only God has the authority to judge.
1h 5mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Discipleship and Obeying Jesus' Commands — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 1h 5m
The central message is that building a church requires more than just preaching the gospel; it demands making disciples who are taught to obey every command of Jesus. The speaker contrasts a mere convert, who only wants to go to heaven, with a true disciple, who commits to following and doing what Christ commanded. He emphasizes that this commitment to obedience is the condition for Christ's promise to be with them.
59mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Soulishness and Spirituality — Zac Poonen — April 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 9, 2024 · 59m
The speaker distinguishes between three states of being: natural (unbeliever), carnal (believer living by the flesh/soul), and spiritual (believer living by the Spirit). He emphasizes that true spiritual maturity requires understanding the distinction between the soul and the spirit, which the Word of God reveals. The ultimate goal is to move beyond merely 'drinking milk' of basic doctrine to 'eating meat' of deeper spiritual truth, exemplified by Jesus tabernacling among us.
1h 0mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Avoiding The Cross is like Worshipping Satan — Zac Poonen — April 5, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 6, 2024 · 1h 0m
The speaker encourages the audience to adopt a heart reflecting God's immense love, rather than one of judgment, drawing parallels between idol worship and viewing God with a frown. He emphasizes that true Christian joy stems from the realization of God's boundless love, citing John 17:23 as a profound comfort. Furthermore, he discusses the need for believers to allow the Holy Spirit to root and ground them in love so that Christ can dwell completely at home in their hearts, drawing from Ephesians 3.
53mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Know This - That Satan is a Defeated Enemy — Zac Poonen — March 31, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 1, 2024 · 53m
The speaker teaches that the Gospel is more than just forgiveness for sins; it requires understanding that sin is coming short of the life of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that believers must press forward daily in Christlikeness, rather than remaining in a perpetual state of spiritual infancy. Furthermore, he stresses that just as Christ canceled our debt to God, we must forgive others by choosing not to remember their sins, living instead by our will rather than our memory.
11mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Meaning of Water-Baptism — Zac Poonen — March 31, 2024
Zac Poonen · Apr 1, 2024 · 11m
The speaker explains that baptism, derived from the Greek word 'baptizo,' simply means immersion. He emphasizes that baptism is a public testimony of identification with Christ—that the believer died, was buried, and rose with Christ, as described in Romans 6. He cautions against believing that baptism signifies perfection, asserting instead that it is a testimony of forgiveness and a commitment to live like Christ, not a claim of current flawlessness. Regarding the age of baptism, he states that the Bible does not set an age limit, but suggests that the individual should possess a measure of understanding regarding its meaning.
58mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Follow Jesus' Example in Studying the Bible — Zac Poonen — March 6, 2024
Zac Poonen · Mar 7, 2024 · 58m
The speaker emphasizes that true belief in the Bible's divine authority requires reading it cover to cover, suggesting this as a test of conviction. He then discusses following Jesus' example, citing 1 John 2:6, arguing that Christians must consciously walk in the way Jesus walked, which is a process of spiritual growth in our known areas of life. This requires honesty, or walking in the light, to maintain fellowship with God.