4. Being A Zealous Builder in the Church — Zac Poonen — October 12, 2022

Zac PoonenOctober 14, 20221h 49mWatch on YouTube

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https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/being-a-zealous-builder-in-the-church 00:00:07 - Being a Zealous Builder in the Church 00:57:15 - Question & Answer time 00:57:17 - How can I find out what gifts God wants to give me to build up the church? 00:59:13 - What are effective ways of reaching out to those outside the church to make disciples of them? 01:02:43 - What are some practical gifts for introverts? 01:04:35 - When we have an opportunity to share from God's word during or after the meeting, how can we be a blessing to the body? 01:05:54 - How can we test ourselves to see if we're veering off into teaching? 01:10:03 - How can we be sure that we are accomplishing the work that God has given us to do and not just any work? (John 17:4) 01:11:53 - When we read the New Testament, the apostles seem to be convinced of their calling, ministry, and gifts, how can we be convinced of the same? 01:12:09 - How can we keep from getting discouraged or feeling down in the work that we do in the church, that our work is not good enough? 01:14:52 - How do we maintain a balance of a healthy home life while ensuring that we are not neglecting our usefulness in the church? 01:17:19 - How can we be sure that we are in the church that the Lord wants us to be? 01:18:28 - Apart from prophesying and speaking in the church meetings, what are other practical ways in which the church built up? Do ordinary things like picnics, games etc. build the church? 01:20:32 - What is the inner witness of the Holy Spirit? 01:28:07 - How can a young believer be protected as they are learning to hear the inner witness of the Holy Spirit? 01:34:44 - How can I have a close relationship with unconverted loved ones? 01:39:07 - Do I need to be honest about my failures to people or to God? 01:43:28 - How should understand confessing our sins to one another based on James 5:16? 01:46:36 - How do we prevent bitterness in our hearts towards others? River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA

Summary

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.

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

The command to be strong in faithDrawing from 1 Corinthians 16:13, the speaker introduces the biblical mandate for men to be alert, firm, and strong in their faith.1 Corinthians 16:13

The danger of effeminacy and passivityUsing the list of sins in 1 Corinthians 6, the speaker discusses how 'effeminate' behavior—failing to take spiritual responsibility—is a serious issue that can ruin families and churches.

True manliness is found in Christ's humilityThe speaker concludes that true biblical masculinity is not arrogance or timidity, but the perfect balance of firmness in truth and the gentleness and humility modeled by Jesus.Matthew 11:29

Jesus's uncompromising rebuke of hypocrisyUsing Matthew 23, the speaker describes how Jesus, though humble, fearlessly rebuk and called out the hypocritical religious leaders of his day.

The perfect balance of rebuke and comfortDrawing from the stories of Martha and Mary, the speaker shows how Jesus knew exactly when to provide a firm correction and when to offer tender comfort.

True spiritual transformation vs. outward imitationThe speaker warns against a rule-based 'old covenant' approach to ministry and argues that true Christianity is an inward change by the Holy Spirit that allows us to walk as Jesus walked.

The purpose of prophesyingProphesying should focus on edification, exhortation, and consolation to build others up rather than showing off personal knowledge.

Pursuing love as the foundation for ministryEffective sharing and leadership in the home or church must begin with a primary pursuit of love for people to avoid being merely clever or seeking reputation.

Being a witness through a life of loveInstead of forcing the gospel on others with tracts, we should show Christ's love through our lives so that our good works serve as a witness.

The importance of self-evaluationJust as Joseph's name was often overlooked, we should use tools like our spouses or even recordings of ourselves to judge our own progress and improve our service.

How can we be sure we are accomplishing God's work?We fulfill our purpose by finishing the specific tasks God has written in His plan for us before we were born.John 17:4Psalm 139:16

Developing the inner witness of the Holy SpiritTo hear God's guidance clearly, we must move beyond external rules and cultivate an internal habit of obeying the written Word, treating biblical commands as mountains we are actively climbing.

Don't be discouraged by early mistakesNew Christians may struggle with bad moods or careless speech, but spiritual growth is a process of learning and pressing on toward perfection like a child learning to write.

The necessity of being honest with GodWalking in the light requires being honest about our sins; covering up mistakes prevents fellowship with God and stunts spiritual progress.

Overcoming bitterness through God's exampleTo prevent bitterness from destroying your soul, you must forgive others by meditating on the immense scale of how much God has freely forgiven you.

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4. Being A Zealous Builder in the Church — Zac Poonen — October 12, 2022

Zac Poonen · October 14, 2022 · 1h 49m

Leadership The church