TUTICORIN CONFERENCE - 2014: Session - 1
This is live broadcast of the Tuticorin Conference (with Tamil Translation) - from Christian Fellowship Church, Tuticorin from 14th Jan to 16th Jan October 2014.
Summary
The sermon contrasts the narrow way of discipleship—which requires denying self and following the cross—with the broad way of merely seeking worldly blessings. The speaker emphasizes that true discipleship involves more than just attending services or receiving material blessings; it requires a willingness to die to self. He concludes that the foundation of the church is not built on doctrine alone, but on observing the genuine life of a true man of God.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Enter by the narrow gateJesus spoke of two ways: the narrow gate that leads to life and the broad gate that leads to destruction, with only a few finding life.
Why preachers widen the narrow wayPreachers often start with a strict standard but eventually widen the path because they desire large crowds and numbers, as people want heaven without giving up sin.
The crowd in John chapter 6Jesus fed a great multitude because they were hungry, unlike preachers today who look for offerings, and by the end of the chapter only twelve remained.
Eating my flesh and drinking my bloodJesus urged the crowd to seek spiritual food and explained that partaking of his flesh and blood means abiding in him and daily dying to one's own will.
Disciples withdraw when faced with the crossMany disciples found Jesus's sayings too difficult and walked away, while Peter stayed because he recognized Jesus as a true man of God.
Five things to look for in a godly preacherA qualified preacher must be humble and approachable, free from the love of money, have godly children, maintain godly co-workers, and build a church pursuing godliness.
Why God started a new church in TuticorinThe church was established not to steal sheep, but like a college, to teach deeper biblical truths such as overcoming sin and taking up the cross that existing churches left untaught.
Rejoicing over repentance rather than numbersAngels rejoice over a sinner turning from sin, not over large church memberships or financial gains driven by lowered standards.
Building the church through the way of the crossJesus stated He would build His church upon the confession of His identity, but that building requires walking the path of suffering and the cross.
Get behind me, SatanJesus rebuked Peter and rejected Satan's shortcut in the wilderness because any voice telling someone to avoid the cross is the voice of Satan.Matthew 16:22–23
Put your sword back and do not fightInstead of treating others the way they treat us or fighting for personal rights, we must treat others with God's mercy and leave defense to the Lord.
The promises for those who walk the narrow wayThose who endure rejection like the suffering servant in Isaiah 53 inherit the glorious promises of protection, peace, and vindication found in Isaiah 54.
