Session 2: Fulfilling God's Specific Plan - Zac Poonen - September 13, 2014
http://rlcfchurch.org/rlcf-family-conference-2014 RLCF Family Conference 2014: As Jesus Lived on Earth River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that believers must imitate Jesus Christ's example rather than merely offering exhortations. The speaker emphasizes that true discipleship involves following Christ's pattern, which is exemplified by His life of helplessness and dependence on the Father. Furthermore, salvation is established by grace through faith, which forms the foundation upon which a life of good works is built.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Following Christ's Example in the New CovenantUnlike the Old Covenant which only had laws and commandments, the New Covenant gives us a tangible example in Jesus and leaders like Paul who said to follow them as they followed Christ.
Called to Follow in His StepsPeter explains that Christ suffered for us to leave an example so we should follow in his steps, which is much more valuable than mere human exhortations.1 Peter 2:21
Joining in Following Paul's ExamplePaul encouraged the Philippians to join in following his example, showing that looking at mature believers walking in the right pattern is essential.Philippians 3:17
Trusting God in Helplessness and PovertyJesus lived in poverty and total dependence on His Father from birth to death, showing us that we do not need human strength or wealth to be secure.
Salvation by Grace and Works Prepared for UsWhile salvation is entirely apart from works, believers are created in Christ Jesus to walk in specific good works that God prepared beforehand.
Every Detail of Jesus' Life Was PlannedFrom His birth in Bethlehem to fleeing to Egypt and returning to Nazareth, every event in Jesus' life fulfilled scripture and God's sovereign plan.Matthew 2:5–6
Secure in the Father's LoveKnowing that the Father loves us exactly as He loved Jesus brings total security, freeing believers from anxiety, jealousy, and competition.John 17:23
The Christian Destination is Christ-likenessOur ultimate predestined destination is not merely heaven, but to become conformed to the image of Jesus Christ among many brothers and sisters.Romans 8:29
All Whom the Father Gives Will ComeJesus rested in the truth that only those given to Him by the Father would come to Him, remaining completely unbothered when crowds eventually left.John 6:37
You Have the Words of Eternal LifeWhen many disciples turned away from hard teachings, Peter and the faithful core stayed because they recognized Jesus had the words of eternal life.
Doing Only What the Father ShowsJesus modeled a life of complete dependence by doing nothing of Himself, only doing what He saw the Father doing.
God Works Behind the ScenesJust as God covertly protected the Jews through Esther and Mordecai, He orchestrates every circumstance to ensure His plans for His people are fulfilled.
The Humility of Christ Seen in His GenealogyThe genealogy of Jesus includes women like Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba, demonstrating His profound identification with broken sinners.
Closing Prayer and Call to Follow JesusThe speaker prays that believers would abandon earthly boasts and anxieties, gaining a passionate desire to walk daily in God's perfect plan.
