5.In our Obedience to the Scriptures - Zac Poonen
Seeing The Glory Of Christ (Dutch Translation)
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that true understanding of scripture cannot come from pre-conceived theological frameworks or 'molds' in our minds. Instead, one must allow the scripture itself to be the mold, allowing it to shape one's thoughts and understanding. He warns against spiritual complacency, urging listeners to pursue peace with all people and holiness, lest they fail to see the Lord. Furthermore, he cautions against despising God's grace, urging believers to live as spiritual royalty rather than as beggars.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Pursuing holiness and peaceThe speaker reads from Hebrews 12, emphasizing that without holiness and peace with all men, no one will see the Lord.
The danger of theological moldsChristians often make the mistake of fitting Scripture into preconceived theological molds instead of letting the Bible shape their minds.
Guarding against a bitter rootBelievers must make sure no bitter root springs up in their hearts to cause trouble and defile many people.
Do not be godless like EsauEsau is called a godless person because he sold his spiritual birthright for a single meal, showing the danger of despising spiritual blessings for earthly things.
Comparing scripture with scriptureTrue doctrine comes from balancing all of Scripture like two wings of a bird rather than adopting one-sided views.
Our eternal birthright in ChristOur eternal birthright is participation in the divine nature, which is the greatest blessing God can give, rather than temporary earthly wealth.
The temptation of worldly kingdomsSatan offered Jesus the kingdoms of the world because they were handed over to him, and he still offers wealth and fame to believers in exchange for a little compromise.
Standing for God's word above human traditionJust as Copernicus and Martin Luther challenged the traditions of their time, believers must stand on the Word of God even if it goes against church tradition.
Let God be true and every man a liarWe must hold fast to the principle that God's word is true regardless of what any religious leader or tradition teaches.
Jesus finds those who are cast outWhen the man born blind was cast out of the synagogue for taking a stand, Jesus found him and revealed Himself further, just as He does for those persecuted for His name.
Rivers of living waterJesus promised that rivers of living water would flow from the inner being of those who believe through the Holy Spirit.
The surpassing riches of God's graceEphesians speaks of the overwhelming riches of God's grace, showing that many believers live like beggars when God intends them to live like kings.
The three aspects of God's graceThe grace of God provides forgiveness of sins, power to overcome sin daily, and strength to face trials without complaining.
Sin shall not be your masterRomans 6:14 promises that sin will not have dominion over us because we are under grace and experience the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.
Grace sufficient for every trialPaul learned in his weakness that God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in weakness.
