The New Covenant And The Kingdom Of God – Zac Poonen
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Summary
The speaker contrasts the Old Covenant with the New Covenant, emphasizing that the latter, established through Christ's blood, is for the church and requires a higher standard of righteousness. He uses examples like anger (equated to murder in the old covenant) and lust (equated to adultery in the new covenant) to illustrate this elevated standard. Ultimately, he urges believers toward continuous spiritual growth, warning against spiritual stagnation despite outward religious activity.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Finding assurance in God's wordThe speaker reflects on his early life, joining the navy, and finding lifelong assurance through John 6:37 after years of doubt.
Discovering the new covenantAlthough he was saved and his sins were forgiven when confessed, he remained defeated in his daily life because nobody taught him about the new covenant Jesus established.Hebrews 8:13
Exceeding the righteousness of the PhariseesJesus taught that our righteousness must exceed that of the old covenant, moving beyond external rules to govern inner thoughts like anger and lust.Matthew 5:20
The frustration of living like a hypocriteThe speaker confesses his struggles with seeking the praise of men during public prayer and maintaining an outwardly clean life while his inner thought life was dirty.
Hungering and thirsting for righteousnessJesus promises that those who hunger and thirst for the righteousness of the new covenant will be truly satisfied, rather than staying stuck in spiritual infancy.
Seeking first the kingdom of GodBelievers are called to seek first God's kingdom and His righteousness, trusting Him to supply every daily need.
What the kingdom of God consists ofThe kingdom of God is not about public speaking or preaching gifts, but consists of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit residing within the heart.Romans 14:17
Loving God and forgiving othersThe new covenant standard requires loving God completely and loving our neighbors, which includes forgiving every single person who has ever harmed us.
Choosing the right masterJesus points out that we cannot serve two masters, specifically contrasting serving God versus serving money.Luke 16:13
Peace and joy in the Holy SpiritThe kingdom qualities of peace and constant joy replace anxiety and complaining when one yields to the Spirit's inner working.
The heavenly Father gives the Holy SpiritJust as earthly parents give good gifts to their children, our heavenly Father is eager to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask and thirst for Him.Luke 11:13
An overflowing cup and a final blessingA life filled with the Holy Spirit impacts the home and family first, leading to a joyful state where the believer's cup overflows to bless others.
