Discarding Rubbish And Gaining Christ - Zac Poonen
Summary
The speaker urges Christians to possess the same level of fervent dedication and pursuit of God that people show when seeking visas to the United States. He contrasts this with the moderate approach of some Christians, using the example of Paul's radical commitment to Christ, which was far more intense than the lukewarm stance of others. True discipleship requires a wholehearted commitment to Christ that permeates every aspect of life, resulting in the 'sweet Aroma of Christ' wherever one goes.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Understanding the Secret of Paul's LifeMany Christians are not serious about finding the satisfying, wholehearted Christian experience that the Apostle Paul had.
Can We Walk Like Paul?If people struggle to have faith to walk like Jesus, they should at least look at Paul, a human being born of Adam who opposed Christians before meeting Christ.1 John 2:6
Paul's Radical TransformationTrained under Gamaliel, Paul was full of zeal to destroy Christianity until God turned him around because he was wholehearted.
A Life of Always in TriumphPaul lived with a spirit of triumph and perseverance through severe trials, knowing nothing could separate him from the love of God.2 Corinthians 2:14
Gaining Christ by Losing AllPaul considered his previous zeal, righteousness, and worldly honor as rubbish in order to gain Christ and know Him.Philippians 3:6–8
Leaving Worldly Ambitions BehindThe speaker shares how God laid hold of his life at age nineteen, requiring him to surrender a promising military career to follow Christ.
Rejoicing Always and Without AnxietyEven while suffering in a Roman prison, Paul rejoiced always and walked with zero anxiety by keeping his mind focused on excellent things.Philippians 4:4–8
Giving Up Honor in ChristendomAfter giving up worldly honor, the speaker had to surrender the desire for honor and platform influence within Christendom.
Finding Radical and Godly FellowshipSeeking genuine spiritual depth requires believing the Bible as God's word and being genuinely filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Church as a Body, Not a BusinessWhile many treat Christianity like a business or a social club, God looks for disciples who consider everything on earth as rubbish compared to Christ.
What is Highly Esteemed by MenThings highly esteemed among men are an abomination in the sight of God, requiring believers to view everything from God's viewpoint.Luke 16:15
The Difference Between Slaves and SonsOld Testament believers were servants under a master, but New Testament believers are sons and wives who share an intimate relationship with God.
Minimum Christians Versus Maximum ChristiansMinimum Christians do the bare minimum for God while chasing worldly maximums, whereas wholehearted Christians invest their entire lives for Christ.
Calling the Devil's BluffWhen a believer views sex, money, and human honor as rubbish, the devil loses his power of temptation over them.
The Monopoly Game of This WorldEarthly possessions are like a game of Monopoly because God will soon fold up the board, proving that only living for Christ has eternal value.
A Prayer for Open EyesThe speaker concludes in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to open hearts so believers can distinguish garbage from gold and follow Paul's example.
