All That Jesus Taught (Bible Study – 16 of 80) - Zac Poonen
Summary
The sermon discusses the Great Commission, emphasizing that discipleship is a lifelong process that completes the work of evangelism. It then analyzes Jesus' teachings on anger, distinguishing between sinful anger and righteous anger. Righteous anger, exemplified by Jesus confronting religious hypocrisy and the exploitation of the poor, is necessary when God's house is profaned for profit. Conversely, Jesus showed no anger when insulted or falsely accused, demonstrating Christlike forgiveness.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Jesus raises the standard from murder to angerIn the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus elevates the Old Testament command against murder to forbid unrighteous anger, mirroring how He lived.
Distinguishing between sinful and righteous angerScripture commands us to be angry without sinning, and the life of Jesus provides the exact dictionary for understanding when anger is appropriate.Ephesians 4:26
Anger against religious exploitation and ritualismJesus was angry when religious leaders valued ritual over people and when people commercialized God's house for personal financial gain.Mark 3:5
When Jesus did not get angryJesus did not become angry or bitter when He was personally insulted, called the devil, spat upon, or physically abused during His trial.Matthew 12:24
Putting away selfish anger while upholding God's honorBelievers must put away self-centered anger that protects their own name, while retaining a god-centered burden for the honor of God's name.Ephesians 4:26–31
The second wrong attitude: sexually lustful thinkingJesus raised the standard of the commandment against adultery to include looking at a woman to lust after her in the heart.
Why Jesus and preachers emphasize anger and lustThese two specific sins are highlighted because they test whether our righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees, and they are the only sins explicitly linked to hell in the Sermon on the Mount.
Job's ancient example of purity through the fear of GodLong before the law or the Bible existed, Job made a covenant with his eyes because he possessed a profound reverence for God.
Bible knowledge without reverence for GodPossessing extensive scripture knowledge, degrees, and modern translations does not make someone holy if they lack the fundamental fear of God.
