Building a Godly Church — Zac Poonen — April 23, 2023
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/building-a-godly-church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
Building a godly church requires focusing on foundational elements rather than external trappings like grand buildings or elaborate music. The speaker emphasizes that the core must be a personal walk with God, followed by a strong family life. Ultimately, the church is built by people united in Christ, regardless of race, education, or social standing, requiring a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of the Gospel.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The three-story building of the churchBuilding the church rests on three floors: a personal walk with God, a godly family life, and the broader church community. Removing the foundation of a clear conscience causes everything above it to collapse.
The Tabernacle, the Temple, and the Glory of GodWhile the Tabernacle and Temple provide pictures of the church, external grandeur and instruments mean nothing without the fire of God's presence. Imitating the world's music or mega-church architecture cannot replace the glory.
Embracing all people in ChristA true church cannot be built on racial or educational exclusivity. Citing Colossians, Poonen emphasizes that diverse groups—from educated professionals to uncultured barbarians and the poor—become completely one in Christ.
The Philistine imitation versus Mosaic obedienceEven if Moses, a master of Egyptian pyramid-building, had constructed the Tabernacle by his own cleverness, it would have lacked the glory of God. Philistines can copy a pattern, but they cannot manufacture the divine presence.
What is the true mark of a New Testament Church?Following a rigid pattern of meetings without spiritual life is dead as a doornail. The true mark is when a stranger walks in, is deeply convicted by the secrets of their heart being disclosed, and recognizes that God is truly present.1 Corinthians 14:23
Aiming for perfectionBelievers must press on to perfection in their personal lives, striving to become christ-like husbands, wives, fathers, and mothers rather than being satisfied with mediocrity.
The aroma of ChristJust like expensive perfume spreads a scent without speaking, a believer's private, self-denying, victorious life at home produces a sweet fragrance and testimony for God.
Living without complainingA home where parents judge themselves severely, ignore minor mistakes, and never complain creates an environment that trains children to build the church in their own generation.
Order in the church and lifting holy handsReferencing the instruction in Timothy regarding men praying everywhere by lifting holy hands, Poonen notes how he overcame his early background to obey scripture and follow the Spirit's promptings.
The danger of hypocrisy like the PhariseesJesus told disciples to heed the correct teaching of the scribes and Pharisees while avoiding their hypocritical lives. Preaching high standards without living them places heavy burdens on others.
Reaching rock bottom and being filled with the SpiritPoonen shares his personal turning point when he realized his hypocrisy, surrendered his ministry, and was truly filled with the Holy Spirit so his life could back up his words.
Internal assurance from the Holy SpiritBelievers should not rely solely on human opinions for assurance of salvation or baptism in the Holy Spirit, but must have the Spirit Himself testify directly with their spirit.Romans 8:16
Power to be witnesses, not to build human kingdomsBeing immersed in the Holy Spirit grants power to be witnesses for Christ rather than building a personal name or kingdom, allowing the gospel to spread globally from humble beginnings.Acts 1:4
Passing faithfulness down through four generationsInstead of seeking flashy gifts, parents should train children and faithful people to be honest, accountable, and steadfast in the little things, ensuring the message passes down through multiple generations.
The return of God's gloryAs seen in Ezekiel, when people become unfaithful, God's glory departs, leaving behind an empty shell. When they return to faithfulness, the Lord can bring His glory back.
