The Lord Knows His Own — Ajay Chakravarthy — December 25, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/the-lord-knows-his-own River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the profound, mutual knowledge between God and His people, drawing heavily from John 10 and the parable of the ten virgins. The central message is that true readiness for Christ's return requires more than mere attendance or profession; it demands an open invitation for the Holy Spirit to know and fill every part of the believer's life. The speaker urges the congregation to proactively ask God to search their hearts, ensuring no part of their lives is hidden from Him.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Lord Knows His OwnDrawing from John 10, the speaker introduces the theme that God desires a close familiarity where He knows His sheep and His sheep know Him, while also warning about preparing for the future final day.John 10:14
The Parable of the Ten VirginsIn Matthew 25, five prudent virgins brought oil in their flasks while five were foolish, leading to the bridegroom telling the unprepared virgins upon their return that he did not know them.Matthew 25:1–13
Depart from Me, I Do Not Know YouParallel warnings in Luke 13 and Matthew 7 show that many will claim to have eaten and drank in the Lord's presence or done miracles in His name, yet be rejected because they practiced lawlessness and did not truly let the Lord know them.Luke 13:23–29
Searching the HeartBelievers should echo Psalm 139, inviting God to search every room of their heart and try their anxious thoughts so they can be led in the everlasting way.
Discipline as Proof of SonshipHebrews 12 explains that God's discipline of His children serves as proof that He considers them sons and daughters, making a receptive heart crucial when correction comes.
Jesus' Freedom to Correct PeterJesus had the freedom to sharply correct Peter because Peter was ultimately receptive, unlike Judas who harbored sin in secret and got offended when confronted.
Pruning Fruitful BranchesJohn 15 teaches that the Father prunes the branches that bear fruit so that they may bear even more fruit, demonstrating the loving heart behind His discipline.
God's Mercy in Covering SinsPsalm 103 reminds believers that God has not dealt with them according to their sins, and the varying details across the gospels show His tender mercy in preserving the dignity of His disciples.Psalm 103:10
Hiding in Darkness Versus Coming to the LightJohn 3 explains that people hide from the light for fear their evil deeds will be exposed, but those who practice the truth come honestly to the light.John 3:19–21
The Two Sides of the SealSecond Timothy 2 states the dual reality that the Lord knows those who are His, and everyone who names the name of the Lord must depart from wickedness.2 Timothy 2:19
Opening the Door 24/7Drawing inspiration from Psalm 24, believers are encouraged to keep the ancient doors of their hearts lifted up twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, allowing the King of Glory to come in and examine everything.
Hope for the Heavily FailedThe criminal on the cross and Zacchaeus both demonstrated that no matter how much someone has failed, they can still open their hearts and be received by the Lord.
He Stands at the Door and KnocksRevelation 3 closes with the Lord offering loving reproof and discipline, standing at the door and knocking for anyone willing to open up and dine with Him.Revelation 3:19–20
