13th Dec, 2015 - The Word Of The Cross Tests People - Zac Poonen
Watch the live stream of the Sunday service from CFC Bangalore. For more videos, visit www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The speaker warns that Christians must take seriously the signs preceding Christ's return, distinguishing between those who will boldly await Him and those who will shrink away in shame. He emphasizes that true preparation involves aligning one's thinking with God's way by diligently studying scripture, as this process corrects human assumptions and understanding, much like a surgeon's necessary, painful procedure.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Two types of believers when Christ returnsWhen Christ appears, one group of believers will have boldness because their lives are in order, while another group will shrink away in shame for ignoring warnings.1 John 2:28
Aligning our thinking with God's ways through ScriptureMany believers fail to realize that the hope of becoming like Christ requires practical change now, and we must use the Bible to replace our thoughts with God's thoughts.
Understanding God's severe judgments as acts of loveJust as a surgeon amputates a gangrenous leg to save a patient, God's severe judgments in the Old Testament were necessary acts of love to protect humanity from total corruption.
Purifying ourselves as Christ is pureTrue hope in Christ's return compels believers to actively purify themselves, operating with the free will God honors rather than robotic obedience.1 John 3:3
Do you want to get well?Jesus asked the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda if he wanted to get well, pointing to how many believers stay comfortable in their spiritual defeats instead of seeking true freedom.
The purpose of the tenth commandmentWhile people could keep the external commandments, God gave the tenth commandment against coveting and lusting to expose human helplessness and invite a deeper surrender.
Fulfilling the law through the Holy SpiritWhat the weak flesh and the law of Moses could not do, the law of the Holy Spirit accomplishes by enabling believers to walk away from sin step by step in daily temptation.
Responding to opposition and pursuing peaceWhen faced with controversy or criticism, believers should avoid arguments, bless those who oppose them, and actively pursue peace like someone running to catch a bus.
Working for the food that endures to eternal lifeJesus urged the crowds not to focus solely on physical provisions, but to digest God's word through active obedience to receive eternal life.
Eating the flesh and drinking the blood of JesusTo follow Christ means accepting the way of the cross and choosing to die to self daily, a difficult teaching that causes many nominal disciples to turn away.
Letting go of the rebellious and staying humbleLike Jesus, leaders should not chase after those who leave out of pride and rebellion, recognizing that true believers remain because the Father has granted them grace.
Recognizing the last hour and the spirit of the AntichristRejecting the message of the daily cross reveals a spirit contrary to Christ, proving that those who depart never truly belonged to the fellowship of believers.1 John 2:18–19
