Building on the Rock Foundation - Zac Poonen - September 8, 2018
http://rlcfchurch.org/building-on-the-rock-foundation River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon distinguishes between the devil's condemnation and the Holy Spirit's conviction, noting that condemnation is accusatory and destructive, while conviction is gentle guidance showing what was wrong and offering a way forward. The central message emphasizes that building a life on Christ requires more than just hearing His words; one must actively 'do' what is heard, yielding one's will to Christ's teachings, as illustrated by the parable of the wise and foolish builders.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Recognizing the difference between condemnation and convictionAll self-condemnation leading to discouragement comes from the devil, the accuser, whereas the Holy Spirit brings gentle conviction to help us grow.John 3:17
Overcoming the accuser with the blood of JesusWhen the devil reminds us of past sins, we can agree that our record is even worse and declare that the blood of Jesus has cleansed us from all sin.
Controlling our will over our memoriesWe cannot always control our memories, but we can control our will by deciding not to dwell on past sins or offenses because the Lord has blotted them out.
What does it mean to have Christ as our foundation?Many people claim Christ as their foundation nominally, but comparing Scripture with Scripture shows that the true foundation involves more than just saying Lord, Lord.1 Corinthians 3:11
Hearing and doing the words of JesusThe wise man in Jesus' parable did not just hear the words, he put them into practice, whereas the foolish man heard them but failed to act.Matthew 7:24
Digging deep through the sand to hit the rockComparing Matthew with Luke reveals that the wise man had to dig deep through the surface sand of emotions and intellect to reach the bedrock of yielding his will.Luke 6:48
Denying self and taking up the crossFollowing Jesus requires denying our self-will, taking up our cross, and living like Jesus who came not to do His own will but the will of the Father.Luke 9:23
Responding with a gentle answerInstead of bottling up anger like yoga or worldly self-control teaches, a clean heart produces a gentle answer that turns away wrath.Proverbs 15:1
The humility of the saint versus false humilityHumility is not thinking of oneself as a good-for-nothing sinner with a hanging head, but recognizing our complete nothingness before the Father, just like Jesus.Matthew 11:28–29
Choosing forgiveness over retaliationUnlike Old Testament figures who called down judgment when mocked, New Covenant believers follow Jesus by offering forgiveness to those who insult or falsely accuse them.
Recognizing the limits of emotional stirringWeeping during a movie about Jesus or being emotionally moved at the end of a sermon does not equal spiritual maturity if it does not translate into daily obedience.
Being led by the peace of the SpiritA mind set on the flesh brings unrest, but waiting on God brings an increasing sense of peace in the spirit as we make thoughtful decisions.Romans 8:6
Submitting to God's order in relationships and parentingGod has established a loving order of headship from the Father to Christ, man, woman, and children, which brings peace and frees believers from unnecessary anxiety.1 Corinthians 11:3
