Zac Poonen - A Church That Has Godly Leadership - NCCF Conference Mar 3 2012
New Covenant Christian Fellowship http://newcovenantcf.org
Summary
The central message contrasts the 'old Covenant' focus on external religious observance with the 'New Covenant' emphasis on internal transformation. Jesus taught that true righteousness comes from the heart and inner life, not just outward actions or adherence to traditions. Believers must discard old ways and focus on cultivating an inward walk with God, as Christ will judge motives and hidden areas of the heart upon His return.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Old Covenant versus New Covenant mentalityThe Ten Commandments and traditional church leadership structures reflect an old Covenant mentality focused on external appearance and special human titles.
What titles are we given to use?Jesus instructed his disciples not to use religious titles like Rabbi or father, but instead gave only two simple designations: brother and servant.
The danger of being a Pharisee despite right doctrineJesus gave the Pharisees credit for having correct doctrine and external righteousness, showing that a person can be completely orthodox yet still be a Pharisee.
What will be exposed when Christ returns?When Christ comes back, He will judge not just outward acts, but the hidden things in darkness and the true motives behind our service.1 Corinthians 4:5
The call to constant inner devotionScripture calls believers to continuous spiritual practices like rejoicing, praying, giving thanks, and bearing the dying of Jesus always.
How far do you want to go with God?Just as Elijah tested Elisha at various stops along the way, God tests believers to see if they are satisfied with partial spiritual experiences or want His best.
An offering that is pureIn the Book of Malachi, God rebuked the people for offering inferior sacrifices while keeping the best for themselves, a pattern repeated in modern Christendom.Malachi 1:6
God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek HimGod shows no partiality and will reward those who humble themselves and passionately pursue His spiritual reality rather than settling for cheap counterfeits.
Babylon versus JerusalemModern institutional Christendom often mirrors Babylon by entangling itself with political leaders and money, whereas true spiritual community focuses entirely on God.
Who did Jesus pray for in John 17?In His high priestly prayer, Jesus explicitly stated that He was not praying for the world at large, but specifically for the disciples the Father had given Him.
God calls the church to repent, not the nationsThe New Testament never instructs believers to pray for the political repentance of nations, but consistently calls the church itself to true discipleship and repentance.
