Fellowship With Christ and His Body - Zac Poonen
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Summary
The sermon emphasizes that true Christian fellowship requires both a vertical relationship with Jesus and a horizontal commitment to the body of Christ. Treating the church like a mere restaurant, where one only consumes without contributing, is insufficient; believers must actively serve like members of a family. God values willingness to serve according to one's current ability, as demonstrated by the unity found in sharing in the fellowship of Christ's body.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Two Arms of the CrossThe cross has both a vertical arm representing our personal relationship with Jesus and a horizontal arm representing our relationship with fellow believers.
Treating the Church Like a Home, Not a RestaurantComing to church only to listen to a message without getting involved is like treating it like a restaurant where you consume food and leave without responsibilities.
Willingness to Serve According to What You HaveGod accepts a person based on their willingness to serve with what they currently have, just as a young Christian can start with small tasks.2 Corinthians 8:12
The New Covenant Fellowship of a BodyUnlike the Old Covenant where people were grouped as a nation, the New Covenant brings believers into a body where each person is a distinct and functioning part.
Remembering Jesus and Proclaiming His DeathTaking the bread and cup is a remembrance of Jesus and a dual proclamation of His past death and His future return.1 Corinthians 11:24
Distinguishing Between Being Unworthy and Taking Part UnworthilyWhile all people are unworthy of salvation, taking part in an unworthy manner means knowingly tolerating and enjoying sin without battling it.
Guilt of Crucifying Christ Through Tolerated SinWhen a person refuses to battle their sin, they become guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, akin to those who hammered the nails into His hands.
The Role of a Father in the ChurchUnlike a teacher who discards failing students, the church acts as a father who patiently repeats truths and stays with the weakest until they learn.
Jesus Opening the Scriptures on the Road to EmmausJesus walked with two disciples to Emmaus and explained everything in the Old Testament concerning Himself.Luke 24:13
The Test of Eagerness for FellowshipJesus tested the disciples by acting as though He would go further, prompting them to urge Him strongly to stay.
Recognizing Jesus in the Breaking of BreadWhen Jesus broke the bread at the table, the disciples' eyes were opened to recognize Him before He vanished from their sight.
A Renewed Zeal to Proclaim the Risen LordTrue breaking of bread with sincerity fills believers with a lifelong passion to witness to others that Jesus can save people from their sins.
