To Love His Appearing - Santosh Poonen - March 24, 2013
http://rlcfchurch.org/to-love-his-appearing River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that true eagerness for Christ's return stems from having one's citizenship in heaven, not on earth. He contrasts the temporary attachments of this world's kingdom with the eternal focus required for discipleship. To eagerly await the Savior means having no earthly attachments that could hinder one's readiness for immediate departure.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What does it mean to eagerly wait for Jesus?When scripture talks about Christ's return, it carries a soberness rather than just a casual desire to go to heaven. True eagerness for His appearing requires having our citizenship in heaven and no earthly attachments that would weigh us down.
Living without Earthly DistractionsIf our mindset is anchored in earthly business, prospects, or unresolved relationships, the sudden return of Christ will catch us unprepared. Maintaining a clear conscience and broken attachments allows us to be ready to go in the twinkling of an eye.
The Poured-Out MentalityPaul lived a life that was poured out like a drink offering, completely content and ready to be taken through any earthly circumstance—whether sickness, health, or poverty—for the sake of Christ.
Focusing on the One Spiritual FightPaul speaks of having fought one single good fight of faith against principalities and powers, rather than getting entangled in personal grievances, debts, or earthly conflicts.
Running and Boxing with PurposeUsing athletic metaphors, Paul urges believers to run to win and to discipline their bodies so they are not disqualified by letting other interests captivate their hearts.
Finishing the Course without Self-PreservationTo finish the course means considering one's life of no account as dear to oneself, completely purging the foul smell of self-preservation and selfish interest.
Satan's Sifting and God's CareJust as Satan asked to sift Peter like wheat, the Lord allows believers to go through intense seasons of shaking to remove the chaff of self-reliance.Luke 22:24–32
Keeping the Faith Amidst the ShakingPaul could declare at the end of his life that he kept the faith because he trusted God through every trial and dart thrown by the enemy.
Peter's Failure and RestorationDespite denying the Lord three times, Peter was restored by Jesus and called to feed His flock, demonstrating that God picks up the broken to build His church.
