Blessed is He Who is Not Offended in Jesus - Zac Poonen - May 27, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/blessed-not-offended-jesus River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that believers must live by the Word of God, not just intellectually, but by applying it to their daily lives. The speaker uses the example of Jesus' interaction with John the Baptist to teach that when we receive a rebuke or challenge from scripture or teaching, it is not a sign of disapproval. Instead, it is a gentle challenge from God to help us grow and deepen our trust in Him, knowing that God appreciates our faithfulness even when we don't feel it.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Taking God's word seriously in daily lifeGod gives His word not just for understanding or sharing, but for us to live by day by day.
Jesus's gentle rebuke to John the BaptistJesus gently rebuked John the Baptist's followers by telling them not to get offended at Him just because circumstances like prison did not match their expectations.
The Lord's private appreciation behind public rebukesEven when the Lord gives us a word of rebuke to help us grow, He deeply appreciates the quiet sacrifices and faithfulness we offer behind the scenes.
The greater privilege of the New CovenantWhile John the Baptist was a great prophet, those in the New Covenant have access to greater grace to overcome sin and love their enemies.
The unfulfilled promise of ElijahBecause the Jews did not accept John as the promised Elijah figure, that prophecy awaits a final fulfillment through the body of Christ restoring family relationships.
Israel's journey as a picture of the Christian lifeComing out of Egypt pictures salvation and water baptism, but the ultimate goal is crossing the Jordan to conquer Canaan, which represents the New Covenant life.
Progressive victory over the giants of sinUnlike the Egyptians who were destroyed all at once, the Canaanite giants of the flesh must be conquered progressively as the Lord reveals them to us.
