3. Zac Poonen - The Way Of The Cross

Zac PoonenMay 13, 201851mWatch on YouTube

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Speaker: Zac Poonen Title: 3. The Way Of The Cross Date: 05-12-2018 Our Goal as Christians is this: To be an exact reflection of Jesus, the Son of God (Romans 8:29) We do this individually by growing in purity in our personal lives (1 John 3:2-3) We do this corporately by becoming fully functioning members of a local Church (Ephesians 4:11-16)

Summary

The central message is that true fellowship with God and with others requires embracing the 'way of the cross,' which means dying to one's own will. Just as Adam and Eve could not access the Tree of Life after sin, humanity must follow Christ's example of self-denial. This cross is necessary both for restoring fellowship with God and for maintaining right relationships with others.

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

What did the Tree of Life symbolize?The Tree of Life symbolizes simple, pure devotion to Jesus Christ, whereas the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil represents seeking knowledge that leads to death.

The Flaming Sword as DeathGod placed a flaming sword guarding the Tree of Life, symbolizing that access to life is only possible through death to self.Genesis 3:24

Jesus' Example of Daily DyingJesus maintained perfect fellowship with the Father for thirty-three and a half years by daily denying His own will.John 6:38

Created to Please GodHuman beings were created to bring pleasure to God, and all sin fundamentally stems from choosing our own will over His.Revelation 4:11

Taking Up the Cross DailyFollowing Jesus requires every individual to deny themselves and take up their cross every single day.Luke 9:23

The Most Relaxed Life PossibleWalking the way of the cross is not a life of strain and tension, but the most peaceful and restful life anyone can live on earth.

Applying the Cross to Human RelationshipsJust as a cross ended conflicts in a parable, husbands and wives experience heaven on earth when both are willing to die to self.

Loving One Another as Christ LovedGenuine love in the church and family is impossible without a cross on which we die to our own demands.John 13:34–35

The Revelation of Baptism and PowerJesus' baptism at the Jordan River was His testimony of choosing death to His own will, unlocking the power of the Holy Spirit.

Growing Spiritual CapacityChoosing the way of the cross daily expands our spiritual capacity from a cup to a river, allowing the Holy Spirit to fill us continually.

Five Essential Pillars for Spiritual GrowthThe Christian life rests on five essential pillars: the blood of Christ, the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, the way of the cross, and fellowship.

Judgment Must Begin with OurselvesInstead of judging others, true believers must first judge and cleanse themselves from pride and selfishness.1 Peter 4:17

Daily Renewal of the Inner ManTrue Christian growth is not measured year by year, but by the inner man being renewed and made more christ-like day by day.

The Double Hope of Christ's ReturnTrue expectation of Christ's return involves the hope of being made entirely like Him, which drives daily purification.1 John 3:2–3

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3. Zac Poonen - The Way Of The Cross

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