Building A New Covenant Church: 3.Seeing Jesus And The Father - Zac Poonen
Summary
The true mark of a New Covenant Church is not adherence to specific patterns or doctrines, but the tangible presence and power of Jesus Christ within the fellowship. The speaker uses the analogy of the Tabernacle, emphasizing that the glory of God, not just the physical pattern, was its distinctive feature. He urges listeners to ensure that the presence of Jesus is central in their homes, churches, and personal lives.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Beyond patterns to the fire of GodMany churches focus on correct biblical patterns and doctrines, yet remain spiritually dead because they lack the fire and presence of God.
The presence of Jesus in the midstThe true mark of a New Covenant fellowship is the active presence of Jesus Christ in the midst of His people, whether few or many.
Studying parts versus seeing the whole personJust as a human body is more than its individual organs, the church is defined by the life and presence of Jesus rather than isolated teachings or practices.
The immediate call of the first disciplesJesus called ordinary, hard-working fishermen by the Sea of Galilee, and they immediately left their nets and followed Him.Matthew 4:18
Love at first sight with ChristWhen a person is gripped by a divine revelation of who Jesus is, it is like love at first sight, leading to total devotion and obedience.
Hard work and total surrenderJesus calls hardworking, faithful people and demands the surrender of self, requiring believers to leave behind what hinders them just as James and John left their father and boats.
God revealing His Son withinPaul was convinced of Christianity not through a sermon, but because God was pleased to reveal His Son inwardly within him.
Finding God with all your heartScripture promises that those who search for God with all their heart will find Him, which is the key to being protected from false teachings.Jeremiah 29:13
Seeing the triumphant ChristBelievers must see the risen, triumphant Christ rather than weak, effeminate depictions, so that earthly lusts lose their appeal in light of His supreme glory.
Knowing the Son and the FatherTrue foundation involves both the Father revealing the Son and the Son revealing the Father, as no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom He wills to reveal Him.Matthew 11:27
Discovering a loving Heavenly FatherFar from being an angry judge, God is a loving Heavenly Father who knows every detail concerning us and works everything for our good.
Moving beyond temporary pep talksThe ministry of the Holy Spirit is to continuously show us Jesus and the Father, lifting us out of anxiety, depression, and superficial pep talks into genuine daily communion.
