9. The Church That Jesus is Building -- Zac Poonen -- March 1, 2009
RLCF Spring Conference 2009: 'True Godliness' https://rlcf.church/media/series/true-godliness --- http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
Jesus promised to build His church, which the gates of hell cannot overpower. The strength of the church is not measured by its size or attendance, but by the purity and quality of its members. To maintain this strength, believers must diligently guard their conscience by immediately confessing sins to God and to any person they have wronged.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
I will build my churchJesus promised that He would build His church and the gates of hell would not overpower it, a promise proven true even when many churches are overcome by strife.
You are the light of the worldWhile Jesus was the light of the world while He was here, He designated His disciples to be the light of the world after His departure.
Quality over sizeLike salt and light, the strength of the church does not depend on massive numbers or size, but on the spiritual purity and quality of the individuals.
Keeping our conscience clearTo build a church against which hell does not prevail, believers must immediately confess and turn away from sin the moment they trip or fall.
Areas where the devil gets a footholdUnresolved anger and an unforgiving spirit are two major areas where believers give the devil an opportunity and a foothold in their lives and homes.Ephesians 4:26–27
The leakage of power through the tongueThe tongue is a primary instrument in the new covenant, and it must be surrendered to the Lord twenty-four hours a day so it does not hurt others.
The importance of fellowship and unityBelievers must not forsake gathering together, functioning like bricks cemented together in a building rather than a disconnected pile of materials.Hebrews 10:25
The power of two in agreementJesus taught that when at least two people are totally united in asking or binding things on earth, it will be done by the Father in heaven.
Christ in the midstThe minimum requirement for spiritual authority is two people who are genuinely united, because Christ is present in their midst.
