The Kingdom Of Heaven And Not of Earth - Zac Poonen
Dubai Meetings February 2017 Visit our website for more information: www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The central message is that believers must shift their focus from the 'Kingdom of Earth'—which emphasizes material blessings, prosperity, and physical health—to the 'Kingdom of Heaven.' Drawing parallels with John the Baptist's call to repent, the speaker argues that modern Christianity often replicates the Old Testament's focus on earthly rewards rather than demonstrating the true nature of God's kingdom, which was inaugurated by the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What did John the Baptist mean by repent?John the Baptist called people to turn around from being occupied with the kingdom of Earth because the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand.Matthew 3:2
The earthly focus of the Old CovenantFor 1,500 years from Moses to Jesus, the nation of Israel was occupied entirely with earthly blessings, wealth, and physical health rather than spiritual riches.
When did the Kingdom of Heaven come?The kingdom of God actually came to Earth on the day of Pentecost with the coming of the Holy Spirit and power, establishing the church as a miniature sample of God's kingdom.
The failure of modern ChristianityModern Christianity has failed by returning to Deuteronomy 28, preaching a gospel of earthly blessing, money, and health instead of victory over sin.
The new promises of the New TestamentThe first promises of the New Testament are that Jesus will deliver His people from their sins and baptize them in the Holy Spirit.Matthew 1:21
How quickly the early church backslidWhile the early church began with powerful witness, backsliding started quickly in Acts 6 with complaints and social favoritism among believers.
What is the kingdom of God?The kingdom of God is not about eating, drinking, or material success, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.Romans 14:17
Keeping your mind set on things aboveBelievers are called to set their minds on things above and experience an inward death to this world while carrying out ordinary daily tasks.Colossians 3:1–3
Boasting only in the crossTrue discipleship means boasting only in the cross of Christ, where the world has been crucified to the believer and the believer to the world.Galatians 6:14
The rubber band illustration of heavenly focusLike a rubber band stretched down for earthly duties and snapping back to heaven when tasks are done, a believer's mind must return instantly to heavenly things.
Seeking the kingdom of God firstWhen you genuinely seek God's kingdom and righteousness first, God faithfully provides all your actual earthly needs.
God honors those who honor HimGod always honors those who refuse to compromise their conscience and take a stand for His righteousness.1 Samuel 2:30
Have we really made any sacrifices for God?When viewed in the brilliant light of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, anything we give up for the Lord vanishes, leaving zero perceived sacrifices.
Paul's light affliction compared to eternal gloryThe immense hardships and dangers Apostle Paul endured were viewed by him as momentary, light afflictions compared to the eternal weight of glory.2 Corinthians 11:23
