Child-Like, Not Childish - Santosh Poonen - October 2, 2016
http://rlcfchurch.org/sermons/child-like-not-childish/ River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
Jesus warns his disciples that they will be sent out as sheep among wolves, advising them to be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. The speaker cautions that the 'wolves' are not necessarily external sinners but rather religious systems or influences within the church that mimic true faith. True power comes not from outward eloquence or worldly systems, but from the indwelling life of Christ, requiring constant spiritual discernment.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Be shrewd as serpents and innocent as dovesJesus warns His disciples that they are being sent out as sheep in the midst of wolves, representing religious systems that look like sheep on the outside but are ravenous inside.Matthew 10:16
Childlikeness versus childishnessChildlikeness is an attribute of the spirit, whereas childishness is an attribute of the mind and the adamic nature that needs to be renewed.
Thinking of yourself lessA childlike spirit means being freed from constant self-centeredness and pride, humbling oneself like a child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
Humility of mind and regarding others as more importantTrue humility of mind is demonstrated by doing nothing from selfish conceit and regarding others as more important than yourself.Philippians 2:3
Utter dependence on PapaChildren are helpless and completely dependent on their parents, mirroring the way believers must depend entirely on God for spiritual strength.
Papa's copycatsBeing childlike means imitating God by putting away malice and being kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving just as God in Christ forgave us.Ephesians 5:1–2
Simple obedienceInstead of using religious traditions or cultural arguments to bypass difficult scriptures, childlike believers practice simple obedience to God's word.
Hunger for the pure wordJust as newborn babies long for milk, true children of God nurture an ongoing hunger for the word of God in order to grow in salvation.
Innocence in what is evilChildlike believers resist the natural curiosity about sin and gossip, choosing instead to remain wise in what is good and innocent regarding evil.Romans 16:19
Do not be children in your thinkingBelievers are commanded to be mature in their thinking and reasoning while remaining babes in regard to evil.1 Corinthians 14:20
Perpetually discontentJesus compared a complaining, perpetually discontent generation to children in the marketplaces who are never satisfied with what is offered.Matthew 11:16–17
Impressed by the glitter of MammonA childish mindset is easily intimidated or impressed by wealth and material possessions, much like a child preferring shiny wrapping paper over valuable currency.Mark 10:21–23
Insensitive to the needs of othersThe story of the rich man and Lazarus highlights how a childish mindset remains entirely self-focused and insensitive to the suffering of others.Luke 16:19–21
Unlearned in doctrine and spiritually gullibleChildish Christians are easily tossed about by every wind of false doctrine and deceptive spirits because they do not know their Bibles well.Ephesians 4:14
