Global Online Youth Meeting 2023 Q&A -- Zac Poonen -- October 21, 2023

Zac PoonenOctober 22, 20231h 19mWatch on YouTube

Also in

https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/goym23zp-qanda River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA

Summary

The speaker addresses common concerns regarding spiritual growth, emphasizing that struggling to naturally read the Bible or pray is normal for new believers, comparing it to the effort needed to teach children good habits. He stresses that maintaining a clear conscience, reading scripture, and praying are vital aspects of a serious Christian life. Regarding assurance of salvation, he advises believers to root their faith in God's Word and seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit, noting that belief in scripture and the Spirit are key components.

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

Is it abnormal to have to force yourself to read the Bible and pray?The speaker explains that struggling with spiritual disciplines is normal for beginners, comparing it to children learning to eat good food or bathe.

How can I be sure that I am saved?Faith comes through hearing the word of God, and believers can find assurance by reading scripture and trusting promises like John 1:12 and 6:37.Romans 10:17

What must I do to be filled with the Holy Spirit?Jesus points to two conditions for receiving the Spirit: deep thirst and faith in His word.John 7:37–39

How can I preserve my first love for the Lord always?Love for God grows by meditating on the immense sacrifice of Jesus and recognizing how much we have been forgiven.1 John 4:19

Is masturbation a sin if I am not hurting anyone else?The speaker compares harmful habits and lust to consuming filth, explaining that Jesus highlighted the seriousness of the thought life and purity in Matthew 5.

Should I wait until I have completely overcome sexual sin before getting married?Paul states in 1 Corinthians 7 that those who lack self-control should marry rather than burn with passion.

Has God kept a specific partner for me before the foundation of the world?Believers should focus on being loyal to the person they marry rather than trying to analyze complex predestination questions about finding the single right choice.

How can a young person get to know someone for marriage in a biblical way?The Bible teaches that a man should not touch a woman before marriage, and guidance can be found by evaluating spiritual, emotional, and physical suitability.1 Corinthians 7:1

How can I overcome suicidal thoughts?Life belongs to God and taking it is a serious wrong; believers must resist these destructive thoughts, cast their burdens upon the Lord, and forgive others.

How can I overcome procrastination in obeying God?Just as a person immediately removes a painful thorn from their foot, recognizing the spiritual damage of sin leads to prompt obedience.

At what point should I cut off my worldly friends who lead me to backslide?Believers should immediately step away from influences that drag them into sin, doing so in a gracious and clear manner.

How can I be bold to reach strangers with the gospel?To overcome the fear of man, believers should ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and remember that human beings are mere dust.

What should our right attitude be regarding the situation in Israel and Palestine?God is not on the side of any particular country or political faction, but rather on the side of the humble.

How do we keep the right motive in our hearts for fighting against sin?While obedience may start simply with doing what is right, spiritual growth leads believers to examine their motives and act out of love for the Lord.

Related messages

Back to the catalog

River of Life Christian Fellowship

Global Online Youth Meeting 2023 Q&A -- Zac Poonen -- October 21, 2023

Zac Poonen · October 22, 2023 · 1h 19m

The Bible The Holy Spirit Following Jesus