Fall Elders Conference 2024 Session 4
Summary
The speaker emphasizes the importance of careful Bible study, using his own journey from an Orthodox background to becoming immersed in believer's baptism as an example. He stresses that true spiritual power comes from submitting to God's clear commands rather than adopting techniques or methods taught by others. The message concludes with Jesus' baptism by John, highlighting humility and the necessity of identifying with all people, regardless of perceived status.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
A desire to teach careful Bible readingThe speaker expresses his motivation to teach others how to read the Bible carefully because the Word has fundamentally changed his life.
Choosing biblical truth over religious traditionAfter being converted, the speaker struggled with pressure to remain in his Orthodox church, but reading the Bible convinced him that baptism must involve immersion.
The connection between the way of the Cross and the Holy SpiritThe speaker explains that true anointing comes from submitting to the 'death' of self, much like Jesus's baptism, allowing God to raise us up in His power.
God will not force His way into closed areas of your lifeThe Holy Spirit will not enter parts of your life that you refuse to yield to Him, such as certain media or habits you keep hidden.
The connection between debt and the Holy SpiritA Christian who is not continuously filled with the Spirit may be blocking Him by refusing to settle debts or handle finances according to God's word.
The necessity of a blameless conscience for the resurrectionUsing Paul's testimony in Acts, the speaker argues that keeping a clear conscience before God and men is essential for those who hope to be part of the resurrection of the righteous.Acts 24:15
The hidden sins of thoughts, attitudes, and motivesSin occurs internally through secret thoughts, prejudiced attitudes toward others, and bad motives behind good actions like preaching.
Building the second story: Family lifeA healthy marriage requires forgiveness and an understanding heart, while parenting should focus on teaching children respect and truthfulness.
The danger of religious hypocrisyUsing the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians as examples, the speaker warns against a life that follows scripture by the letter but lacks the power of lived experience.
The importance of a Christ-like characterA true Christian testimony is found in being patient, forgiving, and refusing to seek revenge, which builds the body of Christ more than great preaching.
Gathering in Jesus' name versus seeking personal fameSpiritual authority exists when people are gathered by the Holy Spirit to glorify Jesus, not when leaders use the pulpit to promote their own names or talents.
The reality of spiritual authority and the name of JesusBelievers possess real authority to bind and loose in the name of Jesus, a power demonstrated through the casting out of demons when one approaches with faith and a clear conscience.
Authority over demons through a clear conscienceWhen you are not seeking your own glory and your conscience is clear, you have authority over every demon because they were defeated on the cross.
The importance of waiting for the Holy SpiritReflecting on Acts 1, the speaker notes that Jesus commanded the disciples to wait for the promised Holy Spirit, which is what we need today.Acts 1:4
The necessity of the Gospel working in our livesUsing an analogy of a broken CD player, the speaker shares how he was challenged to consider how one can share the Gospel if it does not actually work to transform their own life.Romans 6:14
