The Absolute Importance of Submission to Authority -- Zac Poonen -- October 10, 2021
http://rlcf.church/media/sermons/the-absolute-importance-of-submission-to-authority River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker discusses two core principles governing the universe: sacrifice and submission to authority. He emphasizes that true sacrifice, like that of Christ, must cost something, and that the most perfect life, exemplified by Jesus, was one of complete submission to the Father's will, regardless of convenience. This principle requires believers to continually yield their own will to God's will in every area of life.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The principle of submission to authorityJust as sacrifice is the principle on which God runs the universe, submission to authority is another vital principle exemplified perfectly by Jesus Christ.
Jesus lived by submission to His FatherJesus declared that He came from heaven not to do His own will, but the will of Him who sent Him, showing that true submission obeys whether convenient or not.John 6:38
Bringing every area of life under God's authoritySpiritual progress involves progressively bringing every part of our lives under God's authority, much like occupying the land of Canaan step by step.
A man in whom there is no hypocrisyJesus commended Nathanael as a man with zero hypocrisy, meaning he did not pretend to be more spiritually mature than he actually was.
The great faith of a Roman centurionA Roman centurion with no knowledge of the Bible demonstrated remarkable humility and faith, imploring Jesus to heal his paralyzed servant from a distance.Matthew 8:5
Unworthy slaves who have done our dutyBelievers must maintain a humble posture, remembering that even after doing everything commanded by God, we are merely unworthy slaves.Luke 17:10
I am a man under authorityThe centurion understood that true spiritual authority comes from being under authority, recognizing Jesus as someone operating under divine authority.
Jesus commends the centurion's faithJesus marveled at the centurion's faith, stating He had not found such great faith anywhere in Israel among those with vast Bible knowledge.Matthew 8:10
Having authority over SatanBelievers cannot exercise authority over demonic confusion or spiritual darkness unless they themselves are fully submitted to God's authority.
The root of sin is rebellion against authoritySin entered the universe because Lucifer refused to submit to God's authority, mirroring the test given to Adam and Eve in the garden.
Practicing obedience in finances and daily lifeTrue submission means obeying God down to the smallest details, such as paying proper taxes and refusing to live in debt.Romans 13:8
Teaching children instant obedienceParents must prioritize teaching their children absolute submission to authority and truthfulness as the greatest lessons they can impart.
