All That Jesus Taught (Bible Study – 56 of 80) - Zac Poonen
Summary
Jesus taught that the church is not a building or an organization, but a living body of Christ, where members are interconnected and function together through a shared connection to the Head. To build this body, individuals require revelation from heaven and spiritual authority from Christ, rather than just human wisdom or appointment. Ultimately, building the church requires members to deny their own interests and take up their cross, prioritizing God's will.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Building the Church in Matthew 16We continue our study in Matthew 16 where Jesus first speaks about building his church, defining it not as holy individuals alone, but as a fellowship and body.Matthew 16:24
Revelation and Spiritual AuthorityBuilding the church requires divine revelation of who Christ is and spiritual authority given by him, rather than human wisdom or appointments.
The Church as an Organism, Not an OrganizationThe church is an organism like the human body or a solidly built house where members are connected directly to the head, unlike loose bricks or artificial parts.
Denying Self Like ChristJesus denied His own will and sought God's interests, warning Peter that setting one's mind on human interests makes one an agent of Satan.
The Human Habit of Seeking SelfEvery human being is born seeking their own interests and comfort, but a true servant of God gives up self-seeking to build His kingdom.
Living for the Ark Versus Earthly LifeLike someone in Noah's day whose main goal was building the ark while doing the minimum necessary for family, a Christian's mind must be set on building God's church.
God or MammonJesus taught there are only two masters, God and money; the master you serve is the one whose call you obey when directions clash.Luke 16:13
Timothy's Genuine Concern for OthersPaul praised Timothy because, unlike others who sought their own interests, Timothy genuinely cared for the spiritual welfare of the believers.
Trusting God to Take Care of Your InterestsWhen you put God's interests first and sacrifice for Him, He takes far better care of your family and needs than you ever could.
Losing Your Life for Christ's SakeIf you try to save your own life and interests, you will lose it, but losing it for Christ and the gospel brings eternal reward.
Gaining the World But Losing Your SoulGaining the whole world through the pursuit of earthly things wastes the one life God gave you, leaving nothing of eternal value.
The Reward According to DeedsThe Son of Man will come in glory with His angels to reward every person according to what they lived for, not mere religious external habits.
Seeing the Kingdom ComeJesus promised that some standing there would not taste death before seeing the kingdom come, pointing to the power of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.
