Zac Poonen Q & A Session (b) - NCCF Conference Feb 2013
Knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord
Summary
The speaker addresses several topics, including the nature of forgiveness, defining true worship, and the importance of family responsibility. He clarifies that worship is not merely praise or thanksgiving, but a complete surrender of one's life to God. Regarding family, he stresses that parents must take full responsibility for their children's spiritual state, confessing their own failures to God rather than blaming others. He also advises that deep, focused prayer for one's children is crucial.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How do we know we really forgiven someone from our hearts?Unforgiveness is a sin that weakens over time if you battle and hate it. Be honest with God when negative feelings or delight in another's misfortune arise, and He will help you love them.
What is true worship?True New Covenant worship is often misunderstood and confused with Thanksgiving or praise. Worship is bowing down, surrendering our whole life to God, and desiring nothing on earth or in heaven but Him.
What is the importance of fellowship with other Christians?It is valuable to meet with a small group of like-minded believers who share the same passion for Christ rather than a large group lacking spiritual depth.
Should a woman cover her head in church?Based on 1 Corinthians 11, veiling the head is a symbol of submission used during prayer and prophecy. While reality and inward obedience matter most, the outward symbol instituted in scripture should not be discarded.
How do you deal with estranged children?Parents must take 100% of the blame for their children going astray rather than making excuses. By acknowledging personal failure and persistently praying together daily, parents can bring their children back to God.
Should I save money for my retirement?Believers should save money for the future and for their needs, just as the ant stores up food in the summer according to the proverb in Proverbs 6.
What should I do if I struggle to keep the commandments?We often lack the deep respect and fear for God's word that we naturally give to traffic rules. If we respect God's word, we will grow in obedient living over time.
Why don't forgiven sins always feel forgiven?Feelings are untrustworthy, and we must depend on God's written promise rather than subjective emotions, much like trusting a father's word about a financial deposit.
How can I receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit?Spiritual gifts are often withheld because of wrong motives, such as seeking fame or elevation. Instead of seeking prominent gifts like tongues or healing, believers should seek humble gifts like helps or teaching.
What is the difference between mercy and grace?Mercy relates to forgiving our past life, while grace provides divine help to overcome sin in the present and equip us for every circumstance.Romans 6:14
How do you discern Christlike anger?Jesus was never angry when personally insulted or mistreated, but He was angry over things concerning the glory of God and the exploitation of the poor. Righteous anger opposes evil and religious exploitation rather than personal slights.Ephesians 4:26
How do we apply the signs mentioned in the Great Commission today?The Great Commission has two complementary sides: Mark 16 focuses on frontier evangelism where signs and wonders accompany the initial preaching of the gospel, while Matthew 28 focuses on making disciples and teaching obedience.
Why did Jesus have to be forsaken on the cross?The punishment for sin is eternal hell, which is being forsaken by God. Jesus bore that punishment on the cross for three hours, experiencing in full what humanity deserved.
Can a believer lose their salvation?Eternal security is certain for those who value Christ above everything and have no intention of divorcing Him, as illustrated by unbreakable marital commitment.
Does the Bible mean we can reach perfection in this life?Total perfection happens when Christ returns, but in the conscious area of our daily walk, we can follow Jesus' walk and principles right now.
Is it useful to study theology?Many academic Bible schools focus too much on the head rather than the heart. Great spiritual leaders throughout history learned directly from the Holy Spirit rather than attending seminary.
How do different ministries balance social justice and doctrine?The body of Christ functions like a human body or sports team, where different parts have distinct roles such as evangelism, doctrinal purity, or compassionate service.
What is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?Having no desire whatsoever to repent of your sins is the only indication of committing the unpardonable sin; even the slightest desire to turn from sin proves you have not committed it.
