Questions & Answers - Zac Poonen - May 27, 2017
http://rlcf.church/sermons/questions-answers-rlcffc2017-1 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker explains that assurance of being born again comes from the joint work of the Holy Spirit and God's Word, not from feelings. True assurance is found by sincerely confessing sin, believing in Christ's death and resurrection, and relying on the Spirit's witness. He warns against legalism, arguing that true godliness is found by looking to Jesus, who exemplified mercy rather than strict adherence to rules.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How can I be sure I'm really born again?Assurance of new birth comes from the joint operation of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit bearing witness with our spirit.
How can I live surrendered to the Lord without being a legalist?Legalism arises from trying to be strict about outward rules and judging others, but looking to Jesus prevents this because He followed the spirit of the law with mercy.
What is the difference between temptation and sin?A thought or desire flashing into the mind is temptation, but agreeing with it or retaining it in the heart makes it sin.
What does it mean to be angry and do not sin?Jesus was angry over things that dishonor God and hurt others, such as greed in the temple and hardness of heart, but He never got angry over personal insults.Ephesians 4:26
How to say no without hurting others in Christian fellowshipFollowing Jesus requires prioritizing God's approval over pleasing relatives or friends, even if it causes offense.
How can we keep our eyes on Jesus?Keeping our eyes on Jesus involves reading the Word regularly, keeping the conscience completely clean of small offenses, and humbling ourselves to stay filled with the Holy Spirit.
Is it harder to reconquer giants that were once conquered?Overcoming sin in the Christian life is like conquering the land of Canaan step by step, continually discovering and dealing with new areas of unlikeness to Christ.
Understanding the Great Commission and miraclesMiracles and signs accompany preaching in unreached areas where people have never heard of Jesus, whereas making disciples involves teaching them to obey all of Christ's commands.
How can I increase in my love for Jesus?Love for Jesus increases by meditating on how much He loved us on the cross and by deeply realizing how much we have been forgiven.1 John 4:19
Questions concerning praying in tongues and speaking in tonguesWhile speaking in tongues edifies the individual in private prayer, it is not given to everyone, and speaking clearly in a known language is far more beneficial inside a church gathering.
