The More Excellent Way - Santosh Poonen - November 3, 2019
http://rlcfchurch.org/more-excellent-way River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker argues that modern Christianity has deviated significantly from the practices of the early church, often prioritizing visible spiritual gifts over core biblical teachings. He draws from 1 Corinthians 12 to argue that while spiritual gifts are valid, believers should not overlook the 'more excellent way.' This superior way, according to Paul, is characterized by selfless love, which surpasses even the most profound supernatural manifestations.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Turning to the more excellent wayPaul contrasts the pursuit of spiritual gifts and human-driven church attendance with a still more excellent way found in 1 Corinthians 12.1 Corinthians 12:31
Genuine love outweighs supernatural giftsEven if someone had a genuine supernatural gift like healing, walking out genuine patience and love in everyday interactions is far greater.
Patience and kindness in daily lifeThe true test of love is quietly responding with patience and kindness during difficult or mundane moments with a spouse, family, or co-workers.
Rejoicing when others are blessedInstead of harboring jealousy when others are blessed financially or relationally in ways we are not, love produces genuine happiness and blessing for them.1 Corinthians 13:4
Compassion instead of condescensionWhen we have victory over sin, love keeps us from looking down condescendingly on those who still struggle, responding with compassion instead.
Not easily provoked and keeping no record of wrongsLove means not being easily irritated by inconveniences, refusing to keep a logbook of offenses, and burning the record of wrongs suffered.
Not wishing harm on enemiesWhen people harm us, the way of love keeps us from secretly wishing harm upon them, recognizing instead that their sin ultimately grieved God.
Protecting reputations and giving the benefit of the doubtLove covers others' faults rather than spreading gossip, gives others the benefit of the doubt, and recognizes our own limited understanding.
A love that never quitsGod demands the high standard of loving as Jesus loved, enduring persistently without ever giving up.
The danger of becoming dull of hearingThough God's word on love is clear, it is impossible for the Holy Spirit to explain it to someone who has become dull of hearing and closed off.Hebrews 5:11
Growing in love over timeIf we have sat under the teaching of God's word for a year, we should naturally have grown in love; if not, we must humble ourselves rather than blame the message.
The judgment seat of Christ and our responseStanding before Christ, we will realize His plan was perfect, making it tragic to have spent our lives angry or bitter over our circumstances instead of investing His grace.
Rain that produces vegetation or thornsThe same word of God falling on different hearts can produce either useful vegetation and blessing or the thorns and thistles of grumbling and complaint.
