How Jesus Builds His Church - Zac Poonen
Watch the live stream of the Sunday service from CFC Bangalore. For more information, please visit www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The service is a worship session focused heavily on praising God's enduring love, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the grace found in Him. The message emphasizes that God's love is boundless and that believers are called to worship Him and acknowledge His lordship in their lives and homes. It concludes with prayers for God's presence and guidance.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
A celebration of God's eternal loveThe service opens with songs proclaiming that God's love is faithful and enduring from the rising to the setting of the sun.
The sweetness of Jesus' nameA song expresses how the name of Jesus brings melody to the heart and provides peace and comfort in times of longing.
The blessing of trusting in GodDrawing from the Psalms, the speaker highlights how those who find strength in God move from strength to strength and find joy in His presence.
What a church is notMany modern large churches and small house groups are actually just clubs for social support or personal importance rather than biblical churches.
The biblical origin of the word churchThe word 'church' first appears in Matthew 16, and understanding its first occurrence helps us grasp its true meaning.Matthew 16:18
The church is built on the revealed ChristThe true foundation of the church is not a person like Peter, but the massive rock of the revealed Christ confessed by faith.
The excellence of the Ephesian churchPaul's letter to the Ephesians was unique because it contained no corrections, reflecting a church characterized by deep faith and love.
Praying for wisdom instead of wealthPaul's prayers focused on the spirit of wisdom and the knowledge of God rather than material prosperity or physical health.
The danger of pursuing wealthThe pursuit of getting rich is a trap set by the devil that leads to temptation, snares, and spiritual ruin.
Using God-given abilities for self-honorChristian musicians often use their talents to seek personal fame and wealth rather than honoring God, which is no different from using miracles for selfish ends.
Distinguishing between faith and presumptionPresumption is trying to claim God's promises through foolish actions, such as refusing medical treatment while claiming to trust God for healing.
Closing the doors to the devil's influenceWe must ensure we aren't leaving 'back doors' open through a pursuit of money or honor, which allows the devil to overpower the church.
Recognizing the voice of SatanJesus rebuked Peter for suggesting a path that avoided the cross, teaching that any voice encouraging us to avoid humility is actually the voice of the devil.
The danger of preserving self-lifeTrying to protect your own dignity or opinions in relationships leads to spiritual loss, whereas dying to yourself allows you to receive the life of God.
The importance of Spirit-filled leadersAs the church grows, it is vital to have deacons chosen for their wisdom and Spirit-filled nature to help shepherd the congregation and handle practical needs.
