Being Balanced In The Christian Life - Zac Poonen
Summary
The central message is that the Christian life's goal is not merely the forgiveness of sins, but attaining the 'glory of Christ.' This pursuit requires constant effort, as illustrated by Paul's resolve to press on toward that goal. Furthermore, the speaker emphasizes that living this life requires continuous dependence on the Holy Spirit, which is accessed through faith—believing God is more eager to grant the Spirit than the believer is to receive it.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is the true gospel?The gospel is not just about the forgiveness of sins, which is merely cleaning the cup, but about filling it up with the glory of Jesus Christ.2 Corinthians 4:4
Pressing on to the goalLike the Apostle Paul, believers must forget how far they have come and press on toward the prize of the upward call of God.Philippians 3:12–13
Jesus lived as a manJesus did not use His divine power on earth, but lived entirely as a man depending on the Holy Spirit, leaving us no excuse for sin.
God's eagerness to give the SpiritFaith is believing that God is more eager to give us the Holy Spirit and help us overcome sin than we are to receive it.
The balance of grace and truthJesus was full of grace and truth, displaying both deep compassion and righteous severity without ever losing His balance.John 1:14
No works for salvation, but plenty for sanctificationWe are saved completely by grace apart from works, but once forgiven, God creates us in Christ Jesus to walk in good works.
Loving God and loving your neighborThe greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart, and the second is to love your neighbor, both of which must be kept in proper order.
Worship and serviceBelievers must both worship God and serve Him, remembering that true worship comes before service and goes far beyond mere praise or thanksgiving.Matthew 4:10
Fruit for ourselves, gifts for othersWhile the fruit of the Spirit transforms our character, we must also earnestly desire spiritual gifts to minister to and build up others.
Jesus needed the anointingEven Jesus prayed for and received the Holy Spirit upon Him at His baptism to be anointed for public ministry and service to others.Luke 3:21
Individual connection and local church submissionBelievers must maintain an individual connection with Christ as the head while also working together and submitting to leadership within a local church body.
Discipline and instruction in the homeFathers must bring up their children with a balance of both biblical instruction and loving discipline.Ephesians 6:4
The kindness and severity of GodReflecting God's nature, spiritual leaders and fathers must combine kindness with necessary severity to protect against spiritual danger.Romans 11:22
Evangelism and discipleshipThe Christian life requires a complete commitment to both evangelizing the lost and making them active disciples through the leading of the Holy Spirit.
