Why Another Church: 1.A Remnant True To God - Zac Poonen
Why Another Church
Summary
The speaker addresses the question of why new churches are started, arguing that God allows divisions to make those who are truly approved by Him evident. He emphasizes that a church must function as a visible light, warning that complacency or unconfessed sin allows the light to become darkness. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a strong, visible witness for God, even if the church is small, as this is what Satan opposes.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why divisions exist in the churchPaul explains that divisions and factions must happen so that those who are approved by God may become evident, distinguishing mere churchgoers from those who truly please God.1 Corinthians 11:18–19
Keeping a clear conscienceJust like the eye that constantly washes out dust to stay clean, a true witness must maintain a sensitive conscience by confessing and forsaking sin immediately.Luke 11:33
Cain, Abel, and the two streamsFrom the very first book of the Bible and the story of Cain and Abel, two distinct spiritual streams have run through humanity, eventually leading to Babylon and Jerusalem.
The true difference between Cain and Abel's offeringAbel brought the firstlings and the very best of his flock in faith, whereas people who offer God sloppy left-overs repeat Cain's mistake of expecting acceptance without a wholehearted life.
Despising God with sloppy worshipIn Malachi, God rebukes the priests for offering blind and sick animals, showing how deeply offensive it is to give God the dregs of our time, energy, and money.
The poor widow's two copper coinsJesus commended the poor widow who gave her all, demonstrating that God measures giving by how it is given rather than the sheer quantity or percentage.Mark 12:42–44
Saul's anointing and initial humilitySaul was changed into another man by the Spirit of God and started with profound humility, hiding behind the baggage rather than seeking position.
Saul's presumption and clever headSaul stepped out of his God-given boundaries to offer sacrifices himself, showing how clever leaders eventually rely on their own intellect and criticize things outside their calling.
A man after God's own heartBecause Saul acted foolishly out of his own head, God took the kingdom away and gave it to David, a man after His own heart.
The two great movements in Israel's historyWhile Egypt pictures personal redemption from the world, the return from Babylon to Jerusalem pictures believers coming together out of dead religious systems to form a true church.
The Remnant in distress and reproachNehemiah and the prophets report that the returned Remnant faced great reproach and distress while rebuilding the walls of separation from the world.
Paul's warning to the Ephesian eldersPaul warned the elders that after his departure, savage wolves would enter and divisions would arise, making it vital for leaders to take heed to themselves first.
