Completing God's Plan For The Year - Zac Poonen
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that while our physical bodies decay day by day, the renewal of the inner self must be actively pursued through the Holy Spirit. Drawing parallels from Genesis and 2 Corinthians, the speaker urges the congregation to learn from past mistakes and commit to daily renewal. True daily renewal, according to the speaker, comes from taking up the cross daily, as taught by Jesus in Luke 9:23, rather than just adhering to routine spiritual practices.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The renewal of the outer man versus the inner manWhile the physical body naturally decays day by day, the renewal of the inner man requires our active response to the Holy Spirit.
Learning from the past to avoid repeating mistakesWe look back at our past year not with negative condemnation, but to learn vital lessons so we do not repeat the same mistakes in the coming year.
God's daily work of creation and transformationJust as God systematically renewed the earth day by day in Genesis, the Holy Spirit seeks to systematically change our un-Christlike habits, culture, and temperaments.
Taking up the cross dailyFollowing Jesus and experiencing daily inner renewal is impossible without the daily practice of denying our own will and taking up the cross.Luke 9:23
Being diligent workmen approved by GodBelievers must be diligent and hardworking, carefully handling God's word and living to gain the approval of God rather than men.
Overcoming offenses as a kindergarten lessonGetting offended by what people say or do is a basic kindergarten lesson that every believer must finally overcome by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Throwing out sandbags to gain spiritual heightJust like a hot air balloon drops sandbags to rise higher, we must throw out negative traits like taking offense and bad tempers to draw closer to heaven.
Making the right choice regarding moneyBelievers must stop pursuing wealth like the world does and instead trust God to provide what we need while we seek His kingdom first.
Settling past sins and debtsIf there are unresolved sins, lies, or debts from the past year, we must make restitution and start the new year with a clean slate.
Rejecting a punch-card mentality in churchWe must abandon mere religious rituals and a punch-card mentality, choosing instead to live honestly before God with a radical commitment to obeying His word.
