Zac Poonen - The Ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Church - Part 3 - NCCF - July 8, 2012
Part 3 of a 3 part series Spoken at New Covenant Christian Fellowship (newcovenantcf.com) on July 8, 2012
Summary
The central message is that believers are called to live as a 'fragrance of Christ' in every area of life, which goes beyond mere words. This aroma is cultivated by being alert to needs and serving humbly, exemplified by washing feet. Ultimately, this aroma is achieved by consciously crucifying the flesh daily, choosing Christ's way over the 'stink of Adam' in every moment of temptation and decision.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The fragrance of Christ to GodBeing a witness for Christ means having the aroma of Christ, a life that unconsciously reflects Jesus just as perfume releases its scent.2 Corinthians 2:14
Looking unto Jesus and the crossThe road to spiritual growth and bearing the aroma of Christ is through crucifying the flesh, choosing daily to put our old nature to death.
Following in Jesus' stepsWe are called to follow Jesus' footsteps by committing no sin, enduring suffering patiently, and entrusting our cause to God.1 Peter 2:21
The light of Christ's earthly lifeStudying the scriptures must lead us to the life of Jesus, because His life is the true light of men, far superior to mere theological knowledge.John 1:4
Balancing fruit and gifts of the SpiritJesus manifested both the fruit of the spirit for 33 and a half years and the gifts of the spirit for 3 and a half years, showing their proper balance and proportion.
Prayer answered through reverenceJesus' prayers were answered because of His godly fear and reverence, recognizing His total dependence on the Father rather than His own ability.Hebrews 5:7
The parable of persistent askingJesus taught us to pray for the Holy Spirit with a burden for others, acknowledging our own emptiness, and demonstrating shameless persistence.Luke 11:13
The body of Christ and its diverse giftsGod places each member in the body of Christ as He desires, giving various gifts for the edification of everyone rather than individual glory.
Specific spiritual gifts for ministryThe Holy Spirit distributes specific gifts like the word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, healing, and prophecy to build up the church.
Meetings ordered for edificationLocal church gatherings are designed for mutual edification where members share under the Spirit's guidance, allowing God's word to convict hearts and point people to Jesus.
Guarding against clubs and human significanceBelievers must avoid turning the church into a social club or seeking personal importance and significance instead of focusing solely on glorifying Christ.
Receiving light on ourselvesA primary purpose of coming together in fellowship is to receive light from the Holy Spirit on our own blind spots and unchristlike attitudes so we can grow.
