Discipleship And The New Covenant - Zac Poonen (15 July 2012)
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that the Great Commission requires two parts: preaching the gospel (Mark 16:15) and making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). True discipleship involves more than just accepting Christ; it requires loving Jesus above all else, denying oneself daily, and prioritizing Christ over possessions. Furthermore, disciples must be taught to live by every command of Christ, including loving enemies and practicing radical obedience, rather than just hearing about salvation.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The two sides of the Great CommissionChrist gave two commissions: preaching the gospel to every creature and making disciples who follow him and obey all his commands.Mark 16:15Matthew 28:19–20
The conditions of discipleshipJesus set clear conditions for discipleship, including loving him more than family, denying oneself daily, and loving him more than possessions.
Declaring the whole counsel of GodPaul stated he was free from the blood of all men because he did not shrink from declaring the whole purpose of God.Acts 20:26–27
The first promise of the New TestamentThe angel told Joseph to name him Jesus because he will save his people from their sins, which is distinct from mere forgiveness.Matthew 1:21
Revealing scripture to babesGod hides spiritual truths from the clever and intelligent while revealing them to those with the humility and dependence of little children.Matthew 11:25
Fearing sin more than sicknessA spiritual person fears sin and impure thoughts more than physical illnesses like cancer or AIDS.
The promises of the New CovenantThe New Covenant established on better promises includes mercy for iniquities, personal knowledge of God, and transformed hearts.
Knowing God as FatherUnder the New Covenant, believers know God personally as a loving Father and can cry out to him as Daddy through the Holy Spirit.Romans 8:15
God writing His laws in our minds and heartsGod puts His laws in our minds and writes them on our hearts, granting both the desire and the ability to do His will.
