Ravenous Wolves - Santosh Poonen - June 7, 2015
http://rlcfchurch.org/ravenous-wolves River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The message emphasizes that true discipleship requires a 'Shepherd mentality,' meaning one must be willing to lay down one's life and risk personal safety for the benefit of others, much like Jesus. The speaker warns against the 'ravenous wolf' mentality—a self-serving, biting disposition—and contrasts it with the selfless care of the Good Shepherd. Following Jesus must result in a visible desire to lead others to be disciples.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Beware of ravenous wolvesTurning to Matthew 7, the speaker examines the warning about false prophets who appear outwardly like sheep but inwardly possess a ravenous wolf mentality.Matthew 7:15
The Good Shepherd versus the Hired HandContrasting Jesus the Good Shepherd who lays down His life with the Hired Hand who flees when danger approaches, Poonen highlights the self-preservation and devouring mentality of wolves.John 10:11
Desert places and personal securityWolf mentalities emerge from a spiritual desert where a person lacks fulfillment and security in God, leading to jealousy, envy, and a desire to take advantage of others.
The tongue as a restless evilJames describes the tongue as a restless evil full of deadly poison, warning that people often use the same mouth to bless God and curse others made in His likeness.
Slandering and judging one anotherTracing the root of uncontrolled speech to pride, James warns believers not to speak against or judge their brothers and sisters, which is equivalent to judging the law of God.James 4:11
Putting aside malice and longing for the wordFirst Peter teaches that believers must put aside malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander so they can genuinely long for the pure milk of the word and grow.1 Peter 2:1–3
Rash words, Discord sowing, and Gossipy busybodiesProverbs warns against rash words that thrust like a sword, sowing strife which God hates, and engaging in gossipy or busybody behavior.Proverbs 12:18
God searching for a man to stand in the gapIn Ezekiel 22, God looks for someone who will build up the wall and stand in the gap to prevent corruption from destroying the home and the church.
The wolf dwelling with the lamb in ZionIsaiah prophesies of a transformed community where the wolf dwells with the lamb, picturing the harmonious church life God intends to build.Isaiah 11:1
A glorious habitation for the humbleGod looks to dwell with those who are humble, contrite in spirit, and tremble at His word, creating a glorious resting place where no evil or harm is done.
