Austin (TX) CFC Zac Poonen Conference 2017 – Q/A
Theme - Seeing Things from God’s Viewpoint. Questions & Answers Session June 24 & 25, 2017, Pflugerville, TX
Summary
The speaker discusses what it means to worship in the spirit, arguing that modern concepts of praise and worship differ from biblical understanding. He also clarifies the definition of sin, distinguishing between sins of commission (doing wrong) and sins of omission (failing to do good). Ultimately, he advises believers to live freely in fellowship with Jesus Christ, recognizing that God's grace allows enjoyment of life provided it does not constitute sin.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is meant by conscious sin as opposed to unconscious sin?The speaker explains that we only recognize about ten percent of our mistakes, noting that sins include both commissions of known wrongs and omissions of required duties.
Unconscious sins and Christian growthPoonen shares personal examples of unconscious sins like expecting gratitude, illustrating how the Christian life involves growing light that gradually exposes more un-Christlike attitudes.
How the Holy Spirit convicts of sinWhile the Holy Spirit is the ultimate source of conviction, He uses human preachers and the sharing of the gospel to bring people to a place of repentance.
How to meditate on God's WordMeditation requires a genuine desire to do God's will at any cost, actively looking for specific commandments to obey and promises to claim.John 7:17
What will God judge at the day of judgment?Scripture indicates that God will primarily judge hidden things in darkness and the true motives behind our actions.1 Corinthians 4:5
Should we build doctrines on historical accounts in Acts?Poonen cautions against forming doctrines from historical sections like the Book of Acts, advising believers to draw teachings from the Epistles and the direct words of Jesus.
How do you receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?Believers are encouraged to examine their hearts, yield every area to God, and ask for the internal assurance and filling of the Holy Spirit.
Why do some women cover their heads in church services?This practice follows the symbolic instruction found in 1 Corinthians 11 regarding submission and the distinct roles of men and women in the church body.1 Corinthians 11:3
Is the once-saved-always-saved doctrine true?The speaker rejects this doctrine, stating that Scripture warns believers to hold fast to their faith until the end to be true partakers of Christ.Hebrews 3:14
What are the non-negotiable things when looking for marriage?The primary requirement is that both individuals must be genuinely born again, sharing the same spiritual life, temperature, and devotion to God.1 John 3:10
How do I keep my joy during difficult circumstances?Believers must anchor their joy in the unchanging truth that God is on the throne, Christ has defeated Satan, and all things work together for good.Philippians 4:4
What do you think about drinking wine without being drunk?While the Bible prohibits drunkenness rather than all alcohol, the speaker chooses not to drink to avoid setting a stumbling block that could lead others to sin.
How important is communion or breaking bread?The frequency is left flexible in Scripture rather than bound by a strict rule, but it must be observed in a way that prevents it from becoming an empty ritual.
How to identify genuine from false preachers?False teachers can be evaluated by examining their attitude toward money, their personal approachability, and the spiritual condition of their own families at home.
