Don't Settle For a Pain Reliever - Santosh Poonen - December 2, 2012
http://rlcfchurch.org/dont-settle-for-a-pain-reliever River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker continues the study of suffering, using the example of Job, who endured suffering not only from loss but also from being misunderstood by his friends. He then shifts to 2 Timothy 3:10-11, emphasizing that following Christ's path requires enduring persecution and suffering, which Paul lists alongside positive virtues like faith and perseverance. The central message is that believers must embrace the full reality of Christian life, including its inevitable hardships, as part of discipleship.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Suffering of Godly PeopleJust as Job and the Apostle Paul experienced severe suffering and misunderstanding, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will face persecutions.
Dealing With the Core Problem of SelfOur biggest hindrance to true godliness is the basic human instinct of self-preservation and self-righteousness, which God uses suffering to break.
Blessings Along With PersecutionsJesus promised that following Him brings abundant blessings in this life, but they come hand in hand with persecutions as we journey toward eternal life.
What is Eternal Life?Jesus defined eternal life not merely as living forever, but in knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.John 17:3
Counting All Things as LossPaul considered everything as rubbish, including his reputation and comfort, in order to gain Christ and experience the fellowship of His sufferings.Philippians 3:8–10
The Secret of Resurrection PowerWe miss out on the resurrection power of Christ when we refuse to drink the cup of suffering and experience death to our own will.
Don't Settle For a Pain RelieverOur natural instinct is to ask God for quick pain relief, but we should instead ask Him for Christ so our root issues can be healed.
Humbled to the Point of DeathChrist humbled Himself in ordinary circumstances and became obedient to the point of death, showing us the path of true discipleship and evangelism.
Suffering Proves We Are HeirsSuffering with Christ serves as proof that we are children of God and fellow heirs destined to be glorified with Him.
Nothing Can Separate Us From His LovePaul declares that tribulation, persecution, or sword cannot separate us from the love of God, and in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer.
Take Courage, Christ Has OvercomeJesus reminded His disciples that they would face tribulation in the world, but told them to take courage because He has overcome the world.
