Zac Poonen - Q&A Session 1 of 2 - NCCF 06/2014 Conference
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What God looks for in his church
Summary
The speaker advises that true prayer involves listening more than speaking, contrasting it with the common misconception of simply talking to God. To discern God's voice amidst many voices, one must cultivate a habit of listening by first obeying what is written in the Bible. He emphasizes that true Christian fellowship is found through God, not merely through association with people of different faiths.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How do you talk with God and know He is speaking to you?Prayer is like a phone call with both a mouthpiece and an earpiece, meaning we must listen to God far more than we speak to Him.
What is true Christian fellowship?True fellowship comes through our connection to the Head, Jesus Christ, rather than merely hanging around with other believers.
Recommendations for Bible study and authorsAvoid academic commentaries that speak only to the head, and instead utilize practical tools like verse-by-verse teachings that apply to daily life.
How do you get to know God as your father?The Holy Spirit testifies in our hearts and causes us to intimately cry out 'Abba, Father,' which is properly translated as 'Daddy.'
How can a man overcome lusting and avoid justifying it?God created humans pure with a freedom of choice, and sexual desire is designed to be fulfilled exclusively within marriage.
How to discern good intentions from God's willDoing good is not always God's best, so we must seek God's specific priorities rather than settling for merely lawful or good alternatives.
Clarifying the call to be imitators of GodThe instruction to imitate God specifically refers to forgiving others just as God in Christ forgave us.
Dealing with past commitments made before becoming a ChristianBelievers do not need to keep foolish vows or commitments made prior to salvation if they violate God's word.
What are the concrete signs of being baptized in the Holy Spirit?Baptism in the Holy Spirit is an immersion in spiritual power to be a witness, manifested through transformed living and boldness for Christ.
How important is it for us to find a soulmate?God is deeply interested in guiding believers to the right marriage partner, emphasizing spiritual character over outward beauty.
What does the Bible teach about tithes and offerings?New Testament giving is not based on a mandatory ten percent tithe, but on giving cheerfully and as one has been prospered.2 Corinthians 9:7
The role of parents and relating to non-believing parentsBelievers must honor their parents as the first commandment with promise, while loving Christ supremely over family ties.
Using material wealth wisely to spread the gospelBelievers should exercise wisdom and discretion in financial giving to ensure resources genuinely support the gospel rather than corrupt institutions.
