Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Spirit - Zac Poonen - July 29, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/righteousness-peace-joy-holy-spirit River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness first is the key to receiving all other earthly needs from God. The speaker clarifies that the Kingdom of God is defined not by external actions like missionary work, but by 'righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit' (Romans 14:17). True righteousness comes from the Holy Spirit, not from personal effort or adherence to the law.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Gospel of the KingdomJesus describes the new covenant message as the gospel of the kingdom of God, contrasting it with the earthly promises of the old covenant law and prophets.Luke 16:16
What the World Seeks Versus What God ProvidesWhile worldly people eagerly pursue food, clothing, and housing, wholehearted disciples are called to seek God's kingdom first, trusting the Father to add necessary provisions.
A Lifetime Testimony of ProvisionOver decades of not pursuing worldly advancement but instead seeking God's kingdom, the speaker testifies that God faithfully provides everything needed.
Defining the Kingdom of GodScripture defines the kingdom of God not as external activities, but as righteousness, peace, and joy produced by the Holy Spirit.
Self-Effort and External RighteousnessPeople can achieve an external uprightness through self-denial and discipline, much like individuals in other religions, but this leaves the inner self unchanged.
Counting Self-Righteousness as RubbishThe apostle Paul considered his former religious righteousness as rubbish compared to the surpassing value of gaining Christ and His righteousness.Philippians 3:7–9
Rejecting the Opinions of MenBelievers must treat human honor and the reputation of having a mild temper or good behavior as garbage in order to receive inward righteousness from God.
The Branch and the TreeJust as a branch depends entirely on the sap flowing from the tree to bear fruit, believers must depend on the continuous filling of the Holy Spirit to produce righteousness.
Poverty of Spirit and Hunger for RighteousnessPossessing the kingdom of heaven begins with recognizing one's constant spiritual need and hungering and thirsting for God's righteousness.
God's Discipline for HolinessGod disciplines believers during trials so that they may share in the holiness that comes through His Holy Spirit.
Peace in the Heart and with OthersA clear conscience and an inner peace free from tension are primary marks of God's pleasure, and believers should strive to be at peace with all people as far as possible.Luke 2:14
Keeping a Clear ConscienceFollowing the example of Paul, believers must do their best to keep their consciences blameless and at peace before God and men at all times.Acts 24:16
Joy in the Holy SpiritSelf-condemnation and discouragement have no place in the Christian life because believers are commanded to rejoice in the Lord always since God remains on the throne.
Conclusion and PrayerThe message closes with an invitation to bow in prayer, asking God to reveal hidden areas of need and renewing a wholehearted commitment to seek His kingdom first.
