Make Money Your Slave - Zac Poonen - April 6, 2019
http://rlcfchurch.org/rlcf-mens-leadership-seminar-2019 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that God's work in the church requires men who are deeply concerned with God's glory rather than personal gain or self-exaltation. He contrasts the self-serving nature of worldly ambition, exemplified by Babylon's business principles, with the selfless dedication seen in figures like Paul, who wept over the spiritual state of the church. True Christian leadership involves a positive testimony of devotion to God, not merely listing what one avoids doing.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What did Paul warn the Ephesians?Paul called the elders of Ephesus together to recount his three years of zealous, tearful ministry, warning them that savage wolves and divisive leaders would soon arise.Acts 20:17
Jeremiah's prophetic burdenJeremiah proclaimed God's word despite enduring rejection, derision, and opposition from his trusted friends, knowing the Lord was with him.Jeremiah 20:8
The choice between Babylon and JerusalemBabylon operates on the selfish principle of maximizing personal gain with the least effort, whereas Jerusalem is a place of sacrifice and surrender.
Jesus cleanses the templeJesus drove out those making money in the temple because the house of God is not a place to run a business or gain personal profit.John 2:14
Faithfulness with unrighteous wealthGod watches how we handle money to determine whether He can entrust us with true spiritual riches, such as the anointing of the Spirit and revelation.
Recognizing that all money belongs to GodEverything on earth belongs to God, and recognizing that our finances are ultimately His is essential to receiving our true spiritual inheritance in Christ.
You cannot serve God and wealthMoney must remain a useful servant rather than a cruel master, meaning believers must put gold under their feet instead of on their heads.
God's provision and the danger of prideWhile God lovingly provides for our needs and comfort, we must never let an increase in our bank accounts make us proud or forget the Lord.Deuteronomy 8:9
Putting God first through tithingThe purpose of tithing in the law was to teach God's people to put Him first always, while the New Testament calls us to view all we have as His.Deuteronomy 14:23
The three levels of handling moneyFinancial handling moves from unrighteousness to righteousness, which involves paying back what was cheated, settling debts, and staying out of unnecessary debt.
Instructions for the richWealthy believers are instructed not to be proud or place their hope in uncertain riches, but to enjoy God's provision while being generous and rich in good works.1 Timothy 6:17
Buying what we need and giving to the poorJesus's practice with His funds teaches us a balanced approach: buy what you genuinely need without judging others, and give to the poor with love and wisdom.
The tragedy of unfaithfulness with moneyBiblical figures like Gehazi and Judas lost their great callings and crowns because they chased after money and proved unfaithful.
