General Q&A — Zac Poonen — August 24, 2024
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker discusses developing faith, emphasizing that it comes from hearing and meditating on God's Word, particularly the New Testament. He advises starting with simple faith in Christ's forgiveness and warns against seeking great things in faith before mastering the small things. Regarding sin, he affirms that overcoming specific sins is possible through the Holy Spirit's help and persistent effort, contrasting this with being a mere robot by emphasizing the value of free will and genuine love.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How can we develop a childlike faith?Faith comes from hearing God speak through the word of Christ, particularly in the New Testament, as we meditate on scripture and diligently seek Him.Romans 10:17
Is it possible to live in total freedom from a particular sin?Yes, overcoming deeply ingrained sins takes time and perseverance because God preserves our free will rather than making us like robots.
What is the cup that fills us with the Spirit?The cup represents our spiritual capacity, which grows as we walk faithfully with the Lord and discover deeper areas of sin in our lives.
How do we overcome or forget past sins?While memory remains, God chooses not to remember our confessed sins under the new covenant, and remembering them should keep us humble.
Is restitution necessary for salvation?Sins against God require confession to Him, but wrongs and cheating done against others require making restitution and setting things right.
How can I know if humility is from self or Christ?Motive determines whether an act is sinful or righteous, and true humility before God brings His grace to overcome sin.
How do I know if a trial or sickness is discipline?All things work together for the good of making us more like Jesus Christ, and trials can sometimes serve as a fatherly discipline.Romans 8:28–29
What does it mean to rejoice in the Lord always?Rejoicing is an inward attitude of complete happiness and trust in God's sovereignty, regardless of temperament or outward circumstances.Philippians 4:4
Am I really repenting if I lack tears or deep pain?Repentance is a turning away from sin and a resolve to avoid it, rather than an emotional display like weeping, which depends on personality.
How old do I have to be to get baptized in water?There is no fixed age in scripture, but a person must make a personal, conscious choice with understanding, typically entering the early teenage years.
What if my heart condemns me even when it is not a sin?Condemnation comes from the devil rather than God, and the Holy Spirit gently convicts the conscience to bring us to a higher standard.
How do I forgive myself after being forgiven by God?Forgiving oneself means letting go of your reputation before people and accepting that it is good to be humbled.
What happens when we see Jesus and experience eternal life?Eternal life is God's infinite life, and it will take all eternity in heaven to fully plumb the depths of God's nature.
How can I identify the spiritual gift God has given me?As you actively serve the Lord and step out in ministry, the specific burden and liberty God places in your heart will reveal your gift.
Why are we told not to pursue the gift of tongues?Scripture tells us to earnestly desire prophecy—speaking to edify, exhort, and comfort people—while tongues are distributed to some but not all.1 Corinthians 14:1
How can I determine the difference between temptation and sin?Temptation is being attracted by a lust, but sin only occurs when you yield and give yourself over to that temptation.James 1:14
How do I judge myself without coming into self-condemnation?Judge yourself by looking unto Jesus and seeing His glory, which reveals your corruption without driving you into despair.Hebrews 12:1
What are some practical tips to memorize scripture?Constant use, underlining verses in a printed Bible, and writing them on cards are effective ways to memorize and recall scripture.
Will God change my introverted or shy character?God will slowly make you more like Christ as you look outward to Jesus rather than engaging in false introspection.
Is it wrong not to aspire to a higher salary or diploma?There is no strict rule on education levels; the main biblical requirement is that you work hard and earn your own living.
What boundaries must a single woman place regarding men?Women must keep a respectable distance, be modest, and be cautious because men experience strong sexual urges that can easily be stimulated.
How should I deal with sexual temptation and pornography?Sexual sin is uniquely destructive against the body, and scripture commands believers to flee immediately from immorality rather than trying to resist it.
How can I stop wasting hours on YouTube?Practical self-control requires immediate action such as closing the computer, turning off the device, and physically walking away.
Why am I not seeing spiritual growth after listening to sermons?True growth requires dying to self, actively obeying the word, and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit.
How can I overcome repeated sins like getting angry?Jesus treats anger as a serious sin that can lead to judgment, so we must take His word seriously and hate anger.Matthew 5:22
What is the balance between building a local church and a family?A godly life is built on a foundation of knowing God as Father, maintaining a clean conscience, nurturing a godly family, and finally building the local church.
Is it necessary to attend a local church in person?In-person fellowship is ideal, but using online tools like Zoom is a helpful alternative when no local godly church is available.
How do we balance upholding God's standards and submission?A true servant is gentle in personal interactions like a lamb, but uncompromising and bold like a lion when proclaiming God's standards.
Should I avoid sharing in church until I have attained perfection?You do not need to wait for perfection; you can honestly share what goal you are running toward while encouraging others.
From what age should I teach children about the opposite sex?Because societal pressures lower the age when sexual desires emerge, parents should guide children thoughtfully and early through age-appropriate resources.
How can I share the gospel with my colleagues?Begin by living out your faith, helping coworkers in need, and offering prayer when someone is discouraged.
How do we balance providing for needs with serving the Lord?Believers must responsibly care for their families and clear any debts while giving voluntarily to support God's work.
Is candid photography considered wrong?Taking photos of people sneakily without asking for permission first lacks decency and is generally not right.
Is excessive apologizing a sign of true spirituality?Apologizing for trivial accidents like brushing past someone is not deep spirituality, but rather a matter of basic social decency.
