Global Online Meeting Q&A -- Zac Poonen -- June 12, 2021

Zac PoonenJune 17, 20211h 30mWatch on YouTube

Part ofGlobal Online Meetings with Zac Poonen13 of 23

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00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:07 Are there like-minded fellowships in other parts of the world? 00:01:31 How can I see God as a Heavenly Father if I didn't have a good earthly father? 00:06:20 How do we distinguish between self-condemnation and the conviction of the Holy Spirit? 00:11:11 When I keep falling into sin, how do I come to have godly sorrow over it more than just feeling sad about my sin? 00:13:20 How can I fight discouragement about not being sure what my function is in the Body of Christ? 00:19:31 What is the true outward practical sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit? 00:25:34 How do we distinguish between the genuine fruit of the Spirit and good human moral character traits? 00:31:54 Can you explain the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats in Matthew 25? 00:35:49 How can I have a love devotion to Jesus like you, brother Zac, seemed to have had from the time you were born again at the age of 19? 00:43:40 How can we be heavenly-minded without becoming so super-spiritual that we are of no earthly use? 00:49:03 How specifically should we seek God's will in our lives -- only for major decisions, or even for the seemingly trivial ones? 00:58:12 When I'm undergoing a prolonged trial, how do I know whether it's God trying to break me, or something that I should pray to be freed from? 01:02:41 If we will reap what we sow, how can we trust God that He will turn even the reaping for our sins into good in the end? 01:07:35 What encouragement can you give to those with physical or mental disabilities, in trusting God for His purpose for us in His kingdom despite our limitations? 01:16:12 What are your thoughts on organ donation and cremation after death? 01:21:13 How do pray in faith for earthly things that we aren't sure are God's will? 01:24:49 What guidance can you give to parents regarding things that our children are being in taught in schools that are contrary to God's Word? 01:28:33 Information regarding free resources in various different languages on cfcindia.com --- http://rlcf.church/gom-qa-210612 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA

Summary

The speaker addresses questions regarding spiritual guidance, distinguishing between self-condemnation and the Holy Spirit's conviction. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit convicts by showing a better way, unlike a condemning teacher. He also encourages believers to seek God as a loving Father, drawing from scripture to show that God's provision is infinitely greater than any earthly father's failings.

Outline

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

How can someone picture God as a loving father after having a cruel earthly father?Recognize that all earthly fathers are imperfect compared to God, and choose to forgive them while asking the Holy Spirit to reveal God as a loving daddy.

How do we distinguish between self-condemnation and the conviction of the Holy Spirit?Self-condemnation leaves you feeling hopeless and useless, whereas the Holy Spirit convicts with hope like a loving father who wants to help you improve.

How do we move from merely feeling bad about sin to having true godly sorrow?Godly sorrow comes from realizing you have disappointed the heart of a loving Savior who smiles and assures you of His ongoing help.

How do we fight discouragement when we do not know our function in the body of christ?Believers often struggle because of a sinful lust to have someone else's visible gift; instead, believers should embrace the specific, often hidden part God designed for them.

What is the true outward sign of being baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit?Speaking in tongues is not a mandatory sign for everyone, but rather the true mark is receiving power to be a living witness for Christ.

How do we distinguish between genuine fruit of the Spirit and good human moral character?While others might not easily see the difference, true spiritual fruit is accompanied by deep humility rather than a desire to show off or boast.

What does it practically mean to work out our salvation without relying on our own strength?Stop over-analyzing whether every action is in your own strength and simply obey God's commands, giving Him all the glory when you succeed.

Does the parable of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25 teach that we are judged by good works?The parable primarily refers to how born-again believers treat other members of God's family within their immediate circle.

How can someone develop a deep passion and absolute surrender to the Lord?True surrender comes from receiving a personal revelation of the immense love of Christ, who suffered the agony of hell on the cross for our sins.

How can we be heavenly-minded without becoming useless in our earthly calling?Just as Jesus balanced intense private prayer with practical service, believers should carve out personal time with God to maintain a heavenly perspective in daily life.

How specifically should we seek God's will for our lives in daily decisions?As believers mature through studying the Word and yielding their bodies to God, they learn to think like Him and make many decisions using spiritual common sense.

How do we know if a prolonged trial is meant to break us or if we should pray to be delivered?When facing severe trials, pray for God's name to be glorified while utilizing available practical means to improve your situation rather than tempting God.John 12:23–28

Will we still have to reap what we sowed for past sins after being forgiven?While God completely forgives and justifies repentant believers, they may still experience the natural physical or mental consequences of past actions on earth.

What encouragement is there for those with physical or mental limitations seeking a purpose in life?Physical sickness and disabilities will only be fully removed when Christ returns, but God can powerfully use human limitations and handicaps to glorify Himself.

What are your thoughts on organ donation and cremation after death?Cremation and organ donation are entirely acceptable because the human body returns to dust, and God has the power to raise believers to a glorious new body.