The Foundation of Jesus and the Apostles and Prophets - Santosh Poonen - October 23, 2016
http://rlcfchurch.org/foundation-jesus-apostles-prophets River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that the greatest calling is to follow Jesus, not to build or preach, and that every believer has a responsibility to lead others into that following in their daily lives. The speaker argues that God intentionally designs different local expressions (churches) to fulfill specific functions, viewing this necessary separation not as negative division, but as part of God's divine order, similar to how the body's organs have distinct roles.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What does having a vision for the New Covenant Church mean?Without a clear vision of what God is calling us to do, the people perish, which requires us to understand our role within the universal body of Christ.
Why God designs local churches with specific imbalancesJust as the liver has a singular detoxifying function in the human body, God has called River of Life to maintain a specific emphasis and not try to be balanced in every possible direction.
What is the foundation described in Ephesians?The household of God is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself being the chief cornerstone.
In what sense are believers called to be copers of others?Paul commends believers for accepting the word of God delivered through human leadership and becoming imitators of established churches of God.1 Thessalonians 2:13
Where do we draw the line between copying faith and putting faith in man?Believers must never place their ultimate trust or identity in any human leader like Paul or Apollos, as faith must rest entirely on Christ.1 Corinthians 1:10
How do we copy those who lead us?Believers are instructed to observe the conduct of those who spoke the word of God to them and to copy their faith and dependence on Jesus.Hebrews 13:7
Avoiding the school or restaurant mentality in the churchA church should not operate like a fear-based school driven by rules, nor like a restaurant or hospital where people only show up when convenient or when personally needy.
The true church is like a homeJust as a family home is marked by genuine commitment, regular gatherings, and mutual care, the local church requires active participation rather than isolated independence.
Why true fellowship requires brokennessWithout being broken of our own agendas and self-centeredness, we can only achieve superficial buddy-buddy friendships rather than deep spiritual fellowship.
Walking in a manner worthy of our calling with patienceBelievers are urged to preserve the unity of the Spirit with humility and gentleness, recognizing that different people are at various levels of faith along the journey.Ephesians 4:1
