Are You Seeking God's Approval Or God's Blessing? - Zac Poonen
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Summary
The speaker distinguishes between seeking God's blessing and seeking God's approval, arguing that true Christian life should aim to please God rather than focus on material prosperity. He uses the example of Enoch, who was taken up to heaven because his life was pleasing to God, contrasting this with the Old Testament focus on physical blessings. The core message is that believers must live lives that demonstrate faith through works, as a dead faith is one that does not produce action.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why God Started CFCCFC was started 48 years ago to restore God's original standard for His church when Christendom's standards were declining, operating uniquely without taking salaries or asking for money.
Seeking Blessing Versus Seeking ApprovalWhile many Christians go to church just to seek God's blessings and prosperity like people in the Old Testament, CFC teaches believers to seek God's approval above all else.
The Example of Enoch Pleasing GodEnoch walked with God for 300 years and had the testimony of pleasing God before he was taken up to heaven.Genesis 5:21
Faith Without Works Is DeadTrue salvation produces good works, and a faith that does not result in a changed life and obedience is a dead faith.James 2:18
God's Blessings Come to Both the Good and EvilGod causes the sun and rain to fall on both the righteous and unrighteous, proving that physical blessings do not necessarily indicate God's special approval of a person's spiritual state.
Two Groups of Believers When Christ AppearsWhen Christ returns, there will be one group of believers who have boldness and another group who shrink away in shame because they sought blessings rather than God's approval.
The 144,000 Who Follow the LambRevelation describes a dedicated group who keep themselves pure from false systems, unashamedly bear God's name, tell no lies, and follow the Lamb wherever He goes.Revelation 14:1–5
Taking Up the Cross DailyTo follow Jesus, a person must deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and refuse to fight with human beings, acting like a dead man when opposed.Luke 9:23
Closing Prayer and InvitationZac Poonen leads the congregation in a prayer of surrender, encouraging listeners to start from where they are, seek to please God, and ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit.
