Jesus Came to Build Fellowship - Zac Poonen
Summary
Jesus came primarily to build fellowship, which requires establishing a right relationship with the Father first. This vertical relationship with God is foundational; if it is neglected, horizontal fellowship with others will suffer. To maintain fellowship with the Father, one must walk in the light, which means practicing radical honesty and allowing the conscience to become increasingly sensitive to sin.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Jesus came to build fellowshipAs we look to the future, we focus on the positive purpose of Christ's coming, which is to build fellowship with God and one another.1 John 1:2–3
The vertical and horizontal arms of the crossThe cross symbolizes dual fellowship where the vertical relationship with God must be primary, or horizontal relationships will fail.
Following the manufacturer's instructionsWe must study scripture as God's manufacturer's instructions for building the church rather than relying on human opinions.
The condition of walking in the lightThe blood of Jesus cleanses us from sin only if we walk in the light and remain open and honest about our shortcomings.1 John 1:7
Doing one's best to keep a clear conscienceThe Apostle Paul made it his aim to keep a blameless conscience always before God and men by quickly making wrongs right.Acts 24:16
The conscience as the eye of the heartJust as a single speck of dust irritates the eye, a sensitive conscience reacts immediately to small sins so we do not become spiritually blind.Luke 11:34
The second condition: choosing humilityGod opposes the proud and pushes them back, but He supports and gives grace to those who humble themselves.1 Peter 5:5
Knowing the riches of God's inheritance in usWhen the Holy Spirit opens our hearts, we realize how precious we are to God and that He considers Himself rich in acquiring us.Ephesians 1:18
Connection to the head governs the bodyFingers work together not by holding hands, but because both are connected to the head, just as our fellowship depends on our connection to Christ.1 Corinthians 12:12
Every member of the body is importantNo member of the body of christ can say to another that they are not needed, because even the weakest parts have vital functions.1 Corinthians 12:21
Leadership through a plurality of eldersNew Testament churches were consistently led by a plurality of elders rather than a single pastor to prevent unbiblical one-man rule.Titus 1:5
