Faith That Works Through Love -- Zac Poonen -- December 2, 2020
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The core message is that the Christian life must be founded on genuine repentance—a complete 180-degree turn away from self-worship toward God. While faith in Jesus is crucial, the emphasis on faith alone has caused many to neglect repentance. True repentance means identifying and being willing to give up every sin and self-will that displeases God, not just believing in Jesus for salvation from sin.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is the main thing to pursue in the Christian life?The Christian life begins with the proper foundation of repentance and faith; without genuine repentance, even a great sinner cannot enter paradise.
Repentance toward God as preached by PaulPaul preached repentance toward God and faith in our lord Jesus Christ, which means a complete 180-degree turn away from self-worship.
Saved from our sin, not just from hellJesus came to save us from our sins, and true repentance means a radical determination to give up every single thing that displeases God.
The whole purpose of GodGod's purpose for the believer is to make them like Jesus Christ in their thoughts, words, and attitudes toward everyone.
Faith working through loveCircumcision or external religious activities mean nothing; the only thing that matters is faith that produces love in actions and attitudes.Galatians 5:6
Challenges to our love for God in the last daysIn the last days, it is difficult to be a Christian because people are lovers of self, lovers of money, and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.
The vertical and horizontal aspects of the crossThe cross demonstrates both loving God with all one's heart above all else and loving one's neighbor as oneself.
Pursuing love above spiritual giftsWhile spiritual gifts are given by God, many seek prominent gifts out of self-interest rather than asking to be a humble helper motivated by love.
The reward of selfless serviceJust as the disciples served the five thousand and received baskets full in return, those who selflessly serve others without seeking their own will be rewarded by God.
Those who fear the Lord and the book of remembranceGod pays attention to those who fear Him and speak to one another, recording their names in a book of remembrance to distinguish the righteous on the day of reward.Malachi 3:16–18
Continuing to judge oneself and run the raceThe speaker encourages believers to keep judging themselves, running the race passionately, valuing their local church and elders, and putting everything else as secondary.
