5.Two Reasons Why We Love Jesus - Zac Poonen
Kakinada Meetings - 2011: A Bridal Relationship With Christ
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the profound, almost bridal, nature of the relationship with Christ. It draws heavily on biblical parables, such as the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan, to illustrate themes of God's unconditional love, forgiveness, and persistent grace. The central message is that believers are called to live in a deep, devoted relationship with Christ, mirroring His boundless acceptance.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What does it mean to be black but lovely?The speaker opens by looking at the Song of Solomon, describing the spiritual meaning of being blackened by sin yet viewed as beautiful by the Lord.
Why did Jesus choose sinful people?Reflecting on how the Apostle Paul and Mary Magdalene—a deeply sinful woman—were among the first to see the risen Jesus, highlighting God's grace toward the worst of sinners.
Recognizing our constant need for forgivenessBelievers stumble repeatedly even after new birth, yet God's standard of grace is made clear through biblical principles on sin and accountability.
The story of Hosea and God's relentless loveDrawing from the prophet Hosea, the speaker illustrates how God takes back His unfaithful people repeatedly, just as Hosea was told to love his unfaithful wife.
The parable of the prodigal son and excessive graceComparing the prodigal son's return to a marriage relationship where a wayward spouse is continually welcomed back with open arms.
Are we active or idle in the local church?Using an analogy of household chores, the speaker asks whether it is right to be a passive consumer in the church while others work hard.
The song of Deborah and the curse of MerozReading from Judges 5, the speaker highlights the tribes that came to the help of the Lord versus those who sat on the sidelines and received a curse.
Training children and believers to work hardJust as parents teach children to help around the house, believers must be trained to actively support and labor in the work of the church.
The reality of church planting and parentingDrawing from decades of experience, the speaker notes how difficult it is to plant churches and raise children properly without critical attitudes.
The rich master and the dirty beggarUsing the metaphor of a wealthy man taking a dirty road beggar as his bride, the speaker portrays Christ's astonishing love for undeserving sinners.
Two practices to keep our love for Jesus burningThe first practice is meditating on how much Jesus suffered on the cross; the second is constantly remembering the magnitude of our own forgiven sins.
Dealing gently with others as elders and parentsDrawing from Judges 8 and pastoral experience, leaders and parents are exhorted to handle others gently rather than lashing out harshly.
Because He first loved us and forgave us muchConcluding with scripture, the speaker states that we love Jesus because He first loved us, and those who realize they are forgiven much will love much.
