All That Jesus Taught (Bible Study – 19 of 80) - Zac Poonen
Summary
Jesus taught that true righteousness must be internal, surpassing mere external observance, as illustrated by expanding the meaning of the commandments regarding anger and lust. The core message emphasizes absolute truthfulness, stating that a Christian's word must be reliable—'yes, yes, or no, no'—because a believer's word is as binding as a signed legal agreement. God tests believers, especially regarding finances and integrity, to ensure they live consistently according to Christ's standard.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Exceeding the external righteousness of the PhariseesJesus expands the understanding of the commandments to show that true righteousness is internal, addressing matters like vows and truth-telling.Matthew 5:33
What did Jesus mean by letting your yes be yes and your no be no?In the Old Testament the law forbade false vows, but Jesus commands believers not to swear oaths at all, but rather to be entirely truthful so that a simple yes or no is sufficient.
Why there was no commandment against lying in the Old CovenantThe Old Testament commanded against false witness in a court of law because God knew human nature could not keep a blanket command against all lying without the power of the Holy Spirit.
Living out the truth through the power of the Holy SpiritWith the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit in the new covenant, it is now possible to overcome internal sin and consistently speak the truth.
Testing our word in everyday situationsA Christian's word should be as binding as a signed legal contract, and God tests us in financial and everyday dealings to prove our integrity.
Why many potential servants of God fail the testMany zealous young people fail God's tests regarding money, compromise, or unfaithfulness, preventing them from becoming true prophets who uphold God's standard.
You cannot seek to please both men and GodIf you seek to please men, you cannot be a servant of Christ, because true service requires standing uncompromisingly for God's truth.Galatians 1:10
Being honest when it costs you your jobGod tests us in ordinary circumstances, such as admitting a mistake at work even if it risks our job, to prepare us for a true ministry of the word.
The Spirit of Truth guiding us into all truthThe Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth who guides us to be completely truthful in our inner being, following the example of Jesus who is the truth.John 16:13
The severe judgment of hypocrisy in the early churchAnanias and Sapphira were judged not for the amount of money they gave, but for lying and pretending to be fully surrendered when they were not.
The terrifying danger of not loving the truthThose who do not receive the love of the truth risk being sent a delusion by God Himself, causing them to believe falsehoods about their spiritual condition.2 Thessalonians 2:10–11
Lying as the ultimate first and last sinLying is highlighted in scripture as both the first sin recorded and the final sin listed in Revelation, emphasizing how antithetical it is to God.Revelation 22:15
God desires truth in the innermost beingKing David realized that God requires truth in the hidden parts of the heart, a reality made possible today through the Holy Spirit.Psalm 51:6
Overcomers delivered completely from lyingThose who stand with the lamb are characterized as having no lie found in their mouths, showing that believers must cleanse themselves of all deception.
