Jesus Desires Intimacy With Us His Bride - Santosh Poonen - September 20, 2015
http://rlcfchurch.org/jesus-desires-intimacy-with-us-his-bride River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that true Christian intimacy with God requires more than mere religious activity; it demands a deep, private relationship akin to a marital bond. He draws parallels between the holiness required in the Old Covenant priesthood and the need for believers to approach God with reverence, moving beyond superficial acts of service. Ultimately, this intimate relationship is presented as the model for the believer's connection to Christ.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
First John 4:20 and the Holiness of GodBeginning in First John, the speaker reflects on the fearful holiness of God in the old Covenant and how that holiness remains unchanged today.1 John 4:20
What Does It Mean That Jesus Says 'I Never Knew You'?Examining the solemn warning of Jesus saying 'I never knew you,' the speaker contrasts surface-level religious activity with the deep, intimate knowledge represented by Adam knowing his wife.
The Marriage Bed as a Picture of Spiritual IntimacyThe speaker points out why sexual purity is taken so seriously in Scripture: human marriage and intimacy picture the spiritual relationship Christ desires with His church.
Moving Past Relying Solely on Pastors to Hear GodMost believers sadly rely entirely on pastors to hear from God rather than cultivating a personal, direct relationship with the Holy Spirit.
The New Covenant Promise in Hebrews 8God inaugurated a New Covenant because the old one was faulty, promising to write His laws directly on the minds and hearts of His people.
Knowing God's Ways Like MosesMoses was not content with merely seeing God's acts and miracles; he prayed to know God's ways so that he could truly know God.Exodus 33:13
Signs That You Are a Spectator in God's GameAnxiety, worry, fear, impatience, and jealousy are clear warning signs that someone is just a spectator cheering from the stands rather than a genuine player walking intimately with God.
Called Friends, No Longer SlavesJesus elevates believers from old Covenant slaves who do not know their master's will to friends to whom He makes everything known.
Real Love Comes From Knowing God, Not Earthly EffortsBuilding loving relationships in the church cannot be manufactured through human effort or social activities alone; it requires God shedding His love abroad in our hearts.
The Miserable Life of Trying to Stretch Your NatureTrying to improve and stretch our natural patience and love leads to a miserable Christian life, whereas God calls us to crucify the flesh and let His divine nature take over.
Closing Prayer of Surrender and RestorationThe message closes with a heartfelt prayer asking God to search the heart, forgive misplaced earthly goals, and restore the joy of our first love.
