The Laws Of The Spirit And The Body - Zac Poonen
Summary
The speaker contrasts the 'law of Moses' with the 'law of the Spirit,' emphasizing that the latter is life found in Christ Jesus, not a written code. True understanding of the gospel requires living out the Spirit's life, which sets believers free from the law of sin and death, preventing self-condemnation. Following Christ's example means living visibly according to the Spirit's life, rather than merely understanding doctrine or admiring Jesus from a distance.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is the law of the spirit?The law of the spirit is not a written code like the ten commandments, but is instead living life in Christ Jesus.
How do we know we have life in Christ?We know we have this new life because it sets us free from the opposing law of sin and death.
Why the law could not save usThe law could not give us victory because of the weakness of our flesh, failing to conquer inward lusts and desires.
How God accomplished what the law could notGod sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin in the flesh so that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us.
How Jesus overcameJesus overcame sin during His days on earth by offering up prayers with strong crying and tears, denying His own will daily.
The great mystery of godlinessThe church is called to be the pillar and support of the profound truth that Christ came in the flesh and overcame, showing us the path of godliness.
How God causes everything to work for goodGod works all things together for good not to give us material comfort, but to predestine us to become like Jesus in our character.
The law of the body of christIndividual Christian life leads directly into being joined together with others by the Holy Spirit to function as one cohesive body.
Walking in humility within the bodyBelievers must not be haughty, but should learn to associate with lowly people and avoid thinking too highly of themselves.
Accepting one another despite differencesWe must accept one another and avoid judging each other over minor personal convictions, just as Christ accepted us in our weakness.
The ultimate victory of the churchThe ultimate end of the gospel is that the God of peace will soon crush Satan under the feet of the unified body of Christ.
