Living Constantly at Rest in God - Zac Poonen - August 5, 2018
http://rlcfchurch.org/living-constantly-rest-god River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker contrasts the typical classroom setting with the intimate, family-like atmosphere of sharing God's word. He emphasizes that true spiritual growth comes not from mere religious knowledge or ministry activity, but from increasing in love and humility. Ultimately, he draws parallels between Christ's life—marked by profound humility—and the believer's calling to rest in God's provision and fellowship, mirroring God's rest after creation.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What can we learn from Genesis chapter 1 and 2?The speaker notes that Genesis chapters 1 and 2 and Revelation 21 and 22 are the only parts of the Bible where man is not affected by sin, offering a picture of God's original plan.
Man's first day after creation was restAdam's first day of existence was not spent working, but resting and fellowshipping with his Creator, establishing a pattern of resting in what God has done before laboring.
Finding rest from our past sinsTo live in God's constant rest today, believers must first be assured that all their past sins have been completely blotted out and forgiven by God.
Overcoming the accusations of the devilBelievers overcome the daily accusations of the enemy concerning their past by pointing to the blood of Jesus, which cleanses from all sin.Revelation 12:10–11
Maintaining a good conscience through quick repentanceUsing the example of the Apostle Paul losing his temper and quickly apologizing, the speaker shows that slipping up does not destroy a good conscience if confessed immediately.Acts 23:1
Entering into the promised Sabbath rest todayBelievers are called to enter into a perpetual Sabbath rest where they cease from their own works and trust entirely in God.
Trusting our heavenly Father who cares for the detailsJesus taught His disciples to pray to a loving Father in heaven who feeds the sparrows, clothes the flowers, and has even numbered the hairs on our heads.
Letting the peace of Christ act as a refereeWhen unrest or conflict arises in the heart, believers should treat the loss of peace as a referee blowing the whistle, stop talking, and settle the issue with God immediately.Colossians 3:15
Trusting God with all circumstancesGod is sovereign over every circumstance, promising that all things work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.Romans 8:28
Loving Jesus more than family membersThe first condition of discipleship requires loving Christ above all human relationships, refusing to blindly support family members when they are in the wrong.Luke 14:26
Dying to self and possessionsA true disciple must also take up the cross, dying to self-defensive reactions, and holding possessions loosely while trusting the heavenly Father to provide.
Making disciples and walking on the Lord's sideJesus commands believers to go and make disciples with the promise of His continuous presence, urging us to ensure we stand on the Lord's side through humility and love.Matthew 28:19–20
