Zac Poonen - The Way To Growth In Christlikeness - 1

Zac PoonenMay 4, 202049mWatch on YouTube

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Speaker: Zac Poonen Title: The Way To Growth In Christlikeness - 1 Date: May 3, 2020 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

True spiritual growth requires understanding sin not just as breaking a rule or failing to do what is known to be right, but fundamentally as coming short of the glory of God, which is defined by the life of Christ. The speaker emphasizes that this high standard means any action or word that cannot be done in the presence of Christ is sinful. To grow, one must constantly examine oneself against this standard, recognizing that compromise for worldly gain is ultimately yielding to the devil.

Outline

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

The New Covenant and the Possibility of Spiritual GrowthUnlike the old covenant where godly people remained static, the new covenant gives believers the opportunity to grow spiritually until they become like Christ when He returns.

True Repentance and the Definition of SinMany people have a counterfeit faith because they do not know what sin is and therefore cannot truly repent, often limiting sin to external acts like drinking or gambling.

Different Biblical Definitions of SinScripture outlines various levels of sin, including breaking known laws, failing to do what is right, and falling short of the glory of God as seen in Jesus.

The Life of Christ as the Ultimate StandardAnything in our lives that cannot be done in direct fellowship with Jesus is sin, and measuring ourselves by any lower standard stunts our spiritual growth.

Exceeding the Righteousness of the PhariseesJesus taught that our righteousness must surpass the external cleanliness and correct doctrines of the pharisees by possessing a superior inner quality of life.Matthew 5:20

The Danger of Being StaticJust like an aircraft that drops if it stops moving forward, a Christian who is not progressing spiritually is actually going backward.

Daily Renewal into Christ's LikenessPaul experienced his inner man being renewed day by day, showing that true spiritual growth aims for daily progress rather than merely yearly or static milestones.

The Path of the Righteous Like the Rising SunProverbs describes the path of the righteous as the light of dawn that shines brighter and brighter until the full noonday position of Christ's return.Proverbs 4:18

Looking Unto Jesus as the Only GuideRather than copying flawed human examples, believers must keep their eyes on Jesus so the Holy Spirit can transform them from one degree of glory to another.2 Corinthians 3:18

Quality Over Quantity in Salt and LightJesus's illustrations of salt and light emphasize the internal quality of our love, holiness, and mercy rather than mere external activity or size.

Poverty of Spirit as the Master KeyBeing poor in spirit is the master key that opens every door to the treasures of the kingdom of heaven, yet most believers remain spiritually poor.

The Beggar at the Gate as an Illustration of NeedJust like a physical beggar constantly asks for daily provision, poverty of spirit involves a moment-by-moment dependence on God for grace and help.

Abiding in Christ Like the BranchApart from a perpetual, moment-by-moment life of dependence on Christ, we can do nothing of eternal value.John 15:5

Mourning Over Secret SinBlessed are those who mourn, not over worldly losses or damaged reputations, but over inward, secret sins and wrong attitudes that nobody else sees.

Building on the Rock Through ObediencePutting these teachings into practice builds an unshakeable spiritual house, especially during times of close contact and testing at home.

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