28th October 2018 - God's Promises For Those Who Love Him - Zac Poonen
28th October 2018 - God's Promises For Those Who Love Him - Zac Poonen For more sermons please visit https://www.cfcindia.com/
Summary
The central message emphasizes that becoming Christ-like requires receiving God's grace, as sin will otherwise maintain dominion. The speaker draws on the Beatitudes, noting that the poor in spirit are the first step toward this perfection. He uses the Parable of the Talents to warn against spiritual complacency, urging believers to actively use the gifts, time, and opportunities God provides rather than hoarding them.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
A prayer for God's presenceThe congregation begins in prayer, acknowledging God as Creator and expressing His desire to dwell within the hearts of His people through their praise.
All things work for goodReading from Romans, the speaker highlights how God works all circumstances for the good of those who love Him and are called to be like His Son.Romans 8:28
The necessity of grace for perfectionThe speaker states that the Christian goal is to become like Jesus, but this progress is only possible through receiving God's grace.
Accountability for what God has entrusted to usJust as the master in the parable questioned his servants about their use of his money, God will ask us what we have done with the gifts, time, and resources He has provided.
Why spiritual production stopsSpiritual growth ceases when we stop viewing ourselves as 'zeros' and begin to feel important or recognized by others, whereas staying poor in spirit allows for endless progress.
Embracing rebuke to remain in God's blessingTo stay in a position to receive God's blessings, we must accept correction from others as a gift, much like the psalmist viewed being anointed by a righteous man.
Who can harm those who are zealous for good?Drawing from 1 Peter 3:13, the speaker explains that God supports and protects those who are determined to love Him and fulfill His purpose.1 Peter 3:13Romans 8:28
The cost and reward of following JesusUsing John 12:26, the speaker shows that serving Christ may involve facing the same insults He did, but promised is the Father's honor for those who follow Him.John 12:26
Seeking the kingdom through righteousness, peace, and joyThe speaker concludes by explaining that seeking God's kingdom means pursuing righteousness, peace, and joy, and responding to God's conviction when these are lost.
What does it mean to justify yourself?Justifying yourself is making excuses to avoid correction, much like Adam did when he blamed his wife for eating the forbidden fruit.Luke 16:15
Protecting your peace and joyWhen you lose your peace or joy due to a conflict with a spouse, do not blame them; instead, take responsibility for your own spiritual state.
God's intimate care and protectionGod promises to be a wall of fire around His people and views those who touch His children as touching the most sensitive part of His own eye.
God protects those whose hour has not yet comeJust as the police could not arrest Jesus because His appointed time had not arrived, God provides protection for His people when they honor Him.
The dangers of the modern world and social mediaAs the world becomes more anti-Christian, being careful with what we share online can prevent giving information to the enemy that leads to suffering.
A prayer for humility and pleasing GodThe speaker concludes by calling believers to view themselves as insignificant so they can cling to God, ultimately seeking the reward of hearing 'well done' from Christ.
