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43mValue Everyone in the Body of Christ — Zac Poonen — May 24, 2026
Zac Poonen · May 25
1h 15m4. From God, Through God and to God — Zac Poonen — April 18, 2026
Zac Poonen · Apr 22
53mBeing Filled with the Spirit and Building Christ's Body — Zac Poonen — March 22, 2026
Zac Poonen · Mar 22
1h 1mElders: Remain Under the Authority of Christ -- Zac Poonen -- August 4, 2025
Zac Poonen · Aug 6
1h 23mRLCF Men's Conference 2025 Q&A Session #2 — Zac Poonen — April 19, 2025
Zac Poonen · Apr 25
1h 9mRepentance and Building the Body of Christ — Zac Poonen — September 15, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 16
1h 11m3. Submitting to Christ’s Authority in His Body — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
Zac Poonen · Aug 26
32mSpiritual Authority Protects the Church -- Zac Poonen -- September 22, 2023
Zac Poonen · Sep 27
1h 2m3. Guidelines for Young People to Grow Spiritually — Zac Poonen — July 13, 2023
Zac Poonen · Jul 20
1h 4mThis is the True Grace of God — Zac Poonen — April 30, 2023
Zac Poonen · May 1
1h 7mBuilding a Godly Church — Zac Poonen — April 23, 2023
Zac Poonen · Apr 26
51mThe Church and Satan — Zac Poonen — April 22, 2023
Zac Poonen · Apr 26
26m9. The Church That Jesus is Building -- Zac Poonen -- March 1, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9
1h 2m7. A Helpmeet for Christ -- Zac Poonen -- March 1, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9
52m3. Freedom From Being Orphans -- Zac Poonen -- February 28, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9
1h 49m4. Being A Zealous Builder in the Church — Zac Poonen — October 12, 2022
Zac Poonen · Oct 14
1h 11mWhat God Has Joined Together: Service in the Spirit — Zac Poonen -- September 11, 2022
Zac Poonen · Sep 14
1h 8m6. Building the Church as a Body -- Zac Poonen -- July 24, 2022
Zac Poonen · Jul 26
56m4. Building a Godly Home -- Zac Poonen -- July 23, 2022
Zac Poonen · Jul 26
1h 1mSome Principles for Building the Church -- Zac Poonen -- August 15, 2021
Zac Poonen · Aug 17
49mHow to Encourage Others -- Zac Poonen -- August 8, 2021
Zac Poonen · Aug 10
58mStrengthened Through Trials to Strengthen Others -- Zac Poonen -- March 3, 2021
Zac Poonen · Mar 4
1h 28mGod's Original Plan for Church Leaders - Zac Poonen - September 26, 2020
Zac Poonen · Sep 26
1h 0mBuilding the Church God's Way - Zac Poonen - August 19, 2009 (Audio Only)
Zac Poonen · Sep 24
August 3 | Daily Devotion | Repentance Is The Mark Of Being Truly Born Again | Zac Poonen
Zac Poonen · 10m · CFC Daily Devotions
Repentance is the defining mark of a truly born-again Christian. Without genuine repentance—a turning away from sin with changed behavior—one's claim to conversion is hollow and superficial.
43mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Value Everyone in the Body of Christ — Zac Poonen — May 24, 2026
Zac Poonen · May 25, 2026 · 43m
The sermon emphasizes that becoming Christ-like requires more than just ceasing negative behaviors like anger and slander; it demands eliminating all distinctions between people within the church. The speaker uses examples from Jewish/Gentile divisions, racial tensions in America, and caste systems in India to illustrate that true Christian unity means loving and accepting everyone regardless of background, culture, or perceived status.
1h 15mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
4. From God, Through God and to God — Zac Poonen — April 18, 2026
Zac Poonen · Apr 22, 2026 · 1h 15m
The speaker contrasts the true church, described as the holy city Jerusalem, with false religious movements, symbolized by Babylon the Great. He warns that merely claiming to be a Christian is insufficient; true salvation requires a deep understanding of what it means to be devoted to Christ. He urges listeners to study the New Testament thoroughly to avoid deception and follow the narrow way of discipleship.
53mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Being Filled with the Spirit and Building Christ's Body — Zac Poonen — March 22, 2026
Zac Poonen · Mar 22, 2026 · 53m
The speaker shares his personal testimony of conversion, emphasizing that his draw to Christ was not based on self-interest but on the wonder of His love displayed on the cross. He urges listeners to read the Bible not as a storybook, but as a living word that draws them into a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. Ultimately, he stresses the importance of the fellowship of believers, as the Lord desires to build His body through His people.
1h 1mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Elders: Remain Under the Authority of Christ -- Zac Poonen -- August 4, 2025
Zac Poonen · Aug 6, 2025 · 1h 1m
The speaker emphasizes that true church growth and ministry must be founded on divine revelation concerning the identity of Christ, rather than mere academic knowledge or perceived need. He argues that the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is based on Christ's authority, not geographical need, citing Jesus' ministry primarily within Israel as evidence. The central message is to seek revelation from the Holy Spirit to build a church that adheres strictly to God's standards.
1h 23mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
RLCF Men's Conference 2025 Q&A Session #2 — Zac Poonen — April 19, 2025
Zac Poonen · Apr 25, 2025 · 1h 23m
The speaker explains the meaning of 'apostle' as someone sent by God for a specific task, contrasting it with other spiritual gifts. He details the function of apostles, drawing from Ephesians 4, noting that their role is to equip believers through gifting, not personal choice. Furthermore, he outlines the apostolic pattern of planting churches by acting as a spiritual father, appointing multiple elders, and maintaining constant connection with the local body.
1h 9mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Repentance and Building the Body of Christ — Zac Poonen — September 15, 2024
Zac Poonen · Sep 16, 2024 · 1h 9m
The speaker discusses the importance of fellowship and the nature of Christian character, using the example of Paul and Barnabas. He emphasizes that discouragement is a common sin among believers that hinders ministry and urges listeners to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit to overcome it. Furthermore, he challenges the audience's limited view of Christlikeness, arguing that it encompasses both gentle encouragement (like Barnabas) and fiery, truth-exposing confrontation (like Paul).
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.
32mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Spiritual Authority Protects the Church -- Zac Poonen -- September 22, 2023
Zac Poonen · Sep 27, 2023 · 32m
The speaker emphasizes that true submission to authority, whether in life, work, or home, is vital, contrasting this with the casual acceptance of things like ice cream. He draws heavily from Paul's ministry in Ephesus, warning that churches can become doctrinally accurate but lose their fervent love for Christ, leading the Lord to 'remove the lampstand' (de-recognize them). The ultimate call is to return to the first love and remain in the presence of the Lord, even if it means leaving the established institution.
1h 2mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
3. Guidelines for Young People to Grow Spiritually — Zac Poonen — July 13, 2023
Zac Poonen · Jul 20, 2023 · 1h 2m
The central message emphasizes that Christian life requires more than just personal acceptance of Jesus; it demands active participation in building up local fellowships of believers. The speaker stresses the importance of having a burden for this local body and advises young people to embrace discipline, suffering, and submission to God's will, drawing parallels to Jesus's own life and sacrifice. Ultimately, a deep understanding of Christ's love should motivate believers to live wholeheartedly and be willing to serve God wherever they are.
1h 4mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
This is the True Grace of God — Zac Poonen — April 30, 2023
Zac Poonen · May 1, 2023 · 1h 4m
The sermon warns that the greatest danger to a church is the loss of first love for Christ, which outweighs all other good works or doctrinal correctness. Drawing from Revelation 2, the speaker emphasizes that true spiritual vitality comes from a personal, fervent devotion to the Lord, not merely from outward activities or organizational success. If this personal devotion fades, the church risks losing the Lord's presence, regardless of its structure or adherence to doctrine.
1h 7mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Building a Godly Church — Zac Poonen — April 23, 2023
Zac Poonen · Apr 26, 2023 · 1h 7m
Building a godly church requires focusing on foundational elements rather than external trappings like grand buildings or elaborate music. The speaker emphasizes that the core must be a personal walk with God, followed by a strong family life. Ultimately, the church is built by people united in Christ, regardless of race, education, or social standing, requiring a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of the Gospel.
51mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
The Church and Satan — Zac Poonen — April 22, 2023
Zac Poonen · Apr 26, 2023 · 51m
The speaker argues that Satan's primary tactic is creating separation, which is evident when relationships—between God and man, or man and man—break down. He contrasts mere academic study with true revelation, asserting that revelation, which comes from heaven, is what fundamentally changes a person's life. Ultimately, the speaker teaches that the Church must be built not on human understanding or even on a person like Peter, but solely on the rock of divine revelation concerning Christ.
26mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
9. The Church That Jesus is Building -- Zac Poonen -- March 1, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9, 2023 · 26m
Jesus promised to build His church, which the gates of hell cannot overpower. The strength of the church is not measured by its size or attendance, but by the purity and quality of its members. To maintain this strength, believers must diligently guard their conscience by immediately confessing sins to God and to any person they have wronged.
1h 2mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
7. A Helpmeet for Christ -- Zac Poonen -- March 1, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9, 2023 · 1h 2m
The central message is that the primary work of Christ on Earth is building His church, which requires believers to be willing helpmeets to their Bridegroom. This involves understanding the Great Commission—making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey all of Christ's commands. The speaker warns against superficial Christianity and emphasizes that true discipleship requires a commitment to holiness, repentance, and living according to Christ's teachings.
52mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
3. Freedom From Being Orphans -- Zac Poonen -- February 28, 2009
Zac Poonen · Mar 9, 2023 · 52m
The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the full context of scripture, warning against memorizing verses without knowing their original setting to avoid misunderstanding. He contrasts this with the necessity of total commitment to God's will, drawing parallels between Jesus' unwavering dedication and the need for Christians to abandon their own will. The talk concludes by defining the church not as a collection of meetings or groups, but as a total, unwavering commitment to one another as the body of Christ.
1h 49mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
4. Being A Zealous Builder in the Church — Zac Poonen — October 12, 2022
Zac Poonen · Oct 14, 2022 · 1h 49m
The sermon emphasizes the responsibility of men to act as strong leaders, both in their homes and within the church, drawing parallels to biblical examples. The speaker argues that leadership is not limited to those with the gift of preaching, but rather involves taking responsibility in any capacity. He also touches on the importance of spiritual alertness, referencing passages like 1 Corinthians 16:13.
1h 11mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
What God Has Joined Together: Service in the Spirit — Zac Poonen -- September 11, 2022
Zac Poonen · Sep 14, 2022 · 1h 11m
The speaker emphasizes the necessity of living to worship and serve in the Spirit, contrasting this with merely operating in the mind or emotions. He draws heavily from Romans 8 to illustrate the triumph found in the Spirit, and stresses that true ministry, like the apostles, results in establishing local, functioning churches rather than just converting individuals. Ultimately, he urges the audience to honor God by diligently reading the entire Bible before seeking guidance on matters not explicitly written.
1h 8mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
6. Building the Church as a Body -- Zac Poonen -- July 24, 2022
Zac Poonen · Jul 26, 2022 · 1h 8m
The central message is that all human achievements, statuses, and glories are nothing before God, as illustrated by the story of Nebuchadnezzar. True value is found only in Jesus Christ, and the church must reflect this understanding by embracing humility and recognizing that every member is a 'zero' before God. The speaker warns that the desire to be recognized or to lead a church for personal glory will result in building only a useless congregation, not the true Body of Christ.
56mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
4. Building a Godly Home -- Zac Poonen -- July 23, 2022
Zac Poonen · Jul 26, 2022 · 56m
The sermon outlines building a godly life and home using the metaphor of a building with three floors. The foundation is the assurance of God's forgiveness through Jesus Christ. The first floor requires a clean personal walk with God, demanding immediate confession of sin. The second floor is family life, emphasizing that parents must raise children with respect. The third floor is the church, which must integrate personal devotion (vertical) with mutual love (horizontal) to be a true body, not just a club or congregation.
1h 1mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Some Principles for Building the Church -- Zac Poonen -- August 15, 2021
Zac Poonen · Aug 17, 2021 · 1h 1m
The central message emphasizes that building the church requires more than just listening to sermons; genuine fellowship is crucial. Drawing an analogy from the body's joints, the speaker argues that individual parts must function together in love for the body to grow. He advocates for incorporating shared, fun activities alongside spiritual teaching to foster true community.
49mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
How to Encourage Others -- Zac Poonen -- August 8, 2021
Zac Poonen · Aug 10, 2021 · 49m
The central message is the necessity of believers recognizing that they are members of one another, requiring them to actively encourage one another daily. Drawing from Hebrews 3, the speaker warns against allowing an unbelieving heart to cause one to fall away from God. Encouragement should be a constant practice in all aspects of life, not just in church services, as this guards against the deceitfulness of sin. The speaker concludes by pointing to Jesus as the ultimate example of one who ran the race and overcame every temptation.
58mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Strengthened Through Trials to Strengthen Others -- Zac Poonen -- March 3, 2021
Zac Poonen · Mar 4, 2021 · 58m
The sermon emphasizes that the Christian body, established by the Holy Spirit, is composed of many diverse members, each with a necessary function. It cautions against feeling insignificant or believing that only certain gifts (like preaching) are valuable, pointing out that even seemingly weaker members are crucial. True church life involves actively building up the local body through mutual encouragement and utilizing the gifts God has given every believer.
1h 28mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
God's Original Plan for Church Leaders - Zac Poonen - September 26, 2020
Zac Poonen · Sep 26, 2020 · 1h 28m
The message emphasizes returning to God's original plan for the church, warning against misinterpreting scripture or allowing cultural trends to dictate doctrine. The speaker stresses that true leadership requires constant vigilance, prioritizing the glory of God above human opinion, and maintaining a pure focus on Christ's teachings. He uses the analogy of a ship's constant course correction to illustrate the need for leaders to continually guide the church back to its intended direction.
1h 0mRiver of Life Christian Fellowship
Building the Church God's Way - Zac Poonen - August 19, 2009 (Audio Only)
Zac Poonen · Sep 24, 2020 · 1h 0m
The central message is that achieving an 'indestructible life' and building the church according to God's will requires deep commitment and understanding of two great mysteries: living a godly life without sinning (mystery of godliness) and the oneness of the church. The speaker emphasizes that this unity, which transcends natural divisions, is achieved through Christ's work and requires surrendering one's own will to God's will, symbolized by the rending of the veil.