Zac Poonen - Jesus Explained the Father - NCCF Conference Feb 2013
Knowing Jesus Christ as Lord - Captured Live on Ustream at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nccf-live-stream
Summary
The central message is that knowing Jesus is fundamentally about understanding God as a loving Father, not merely as a judge or policeman. The speaker emphasizes that Christian life must progress beyond simply confessing sins to fulfilling God's specific purpose for one's life on Earth. True discipleship requires an intimate, personal relationship with God, moving beyond theoretical knowledge to lived experience.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why Jesus Came to EarthBelievers often stop at the milk of the word, thanking God just for the forgiveness of sins, but Jesus sent His disciples with the same purpose the Father sent Him to fulfill on Earth.
Jesus Explained the FatherNo one had seen God in history, but the only begotten Son came to explain God as a loving father rather than a policeman or a judge.John 1:18
Representing God's Kindness and SeverityFathers and leaders must represent God's perfect balance of grace and truth, recognizing that God's kindness far outweighs His strictness.
Righteous JudgmentWhile we should not judge by outward appearances, we are responsible to exercise righteous judgment within the specific spheres of authority God has given us, beginning with ourselves.John 7:24
Delivered from Jealousy and InsecurityJealousy stems from not knowing God as a father; when we trust the boundaries, income, and gifts He has determined for us, we find complete security.
The Boundaries of Our HabitationGod has appointed the exact boundaries of our lives, including our limitations and circumstances, so that we might seek Him and find rest.Acts 17:26
Contentment in Finances and DebtLearning to live within our financial boundaries without ungodly debt brings a Sabbath rest and deep trust in our heavenly Father's provision.
The Passion to Know ChristAfter decades of service, the Apostle Paul considered everything outside of Christ to be rubbish compared to the surpassing value of knowing Him.
Evaluating Daily ActivitiesEvery activity, entertainment, or habit in our lives should be tested by whether we can do it in direct fellowship with Jesus.
Following Jesus' Example in Ministry and MoneyTrue Christian ministry follows the example of Jesus and the apostles by trusting God for needs rather than advertising for money or using worldly methods.
Giving Secretly and CheerfullyAligning with Jesus' commands, giving should be done secretly and cheerfully without compulsion, allowing God to prove His faithfulness.
