5.Humble Yourself And Be A Servant - Zac Poonen
Understanding God's Ways
Summary
The central message is that true Christian life requires humility, self-denial, and a focus on serving others rather than self-gain or pride. The speaker emphasizes that achieving this is possible through the power of the Holy Spirit, contrasting this with the impossibility of such obedience in the Old Testament. He urges believers to build the church, recognizing that true devotion is demonstrated by being broken by God's word and seeking the good of the community over personal honor or benefit.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Having the attitude of ChristPaul points out in Philippians that selfishness and pride are the two main sins that prevent unity among believers.Philippians 2:2–5
Who does God look upon with favor?God looks with favor and blessing upon those who are humble, contrite in spirit, and tremble at His word.Isaiah 66:1–2
How Jesus built the churchJesus built the church by giving Himself up and laying aside all personal desires, which is the true path of holiness rather than seeking personal honor.Ephesians 5:25
Recognizing pride and secret lustPride is often visibly manifested in a person's eyes, just as secret adultery and lust show themselves to spiritual discernment.Proverbs 6:16
Building with the fire of GodImitating church patterns and doctrines without a foundation of personal humility and repentance results in a church devoid of God's fire and glory.
God gives grace to the humbleGod actively opposes the proud but extends His grace to those who humble themselves under His mighty hand.James 4:61 Peter 5:5–6
Jesus became a servantJesus rejected earthly kingship and humbled Himself to become a servant, demonstrating the only proper position for humanity in a sin-cursed world.
The mighty hand of God in our circumstancesDifficult life circumstances serve as God's instrument to crush our pride and selfishness if we respond with humility rather than blame.
Being a servant to one anotherBelievers must cultivate the grace to not only serve others but also allow others to serve them in humility.
