Questions & Answers - Zac Poonen - April 6, 2019
http://rlcfchurch.org/rlcf-mens-seminar-2019 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker discusses the nature of genuine spiritual questioning, advising that questions should relate to life and God's will rather than mere theoretical knowledge. He addresses the concept of free will, affirming that God does not take it away, and outlines the primary evidence of being born again: a desire to pray (breathing) and a longing to hear God's Word. Finally, he discusses church divisions, noting that true overcomers sense the Lord's departure and may start a new, pure church.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The type of question reveals spiritual conditionThe questions people ask indicate whether they are seeking spiritual life or merely theoretical knowledge.
Where does our free will come in regarding election?God chose believers before the creation of the world based on His foreknowledge of who would repent and surrender to Christ.
What is the evidence of being born again and when to baptize?The primary marks of new birth are a desire for prayer and a hunger for God's Word, resulting in a hatred of sin, while baptism follows when a person is old enough to understand its testimony.
What does the Bible say about church splits or divisions?Divisions have historically preserved purity by separating light from darkness and truth from false teaching, contrasting with selfish splits for personal following.
How to stop backsliding and grow closer to GodBelievers protect themselves from backsliding by reading the daily scriptures and instantly obeying their conscience when facing compromises.
Did an apostle have to see the resurrection of Jesus?While initial apostles witnessed the resurrection, later New Testament apostles like Barnabas and Paul were appointed by the Holy Spirit to plant churches and act as spiritual fathers.
How long should an elder or pastor remain in church leadership?An elder serves as long as people have confidence in him, provided he does not fall into unrepentant sin, though having external spiritual authority helps handle leadership failure.
Should people in the church pray one by one or all together?Both corporate prayer where everyone prays together and led prayer where one person leads are acceptable depending on the context.
Why is money given so much importance?Money acts as a test from God to exercise free will, allowing humans to choose whether to depend on Him or on themselves.
Is it a sin to play professional sports as a career?Any honest profession is acceptable as long as it does not involve sin or consistently pull you away from fellowship with God's people on Sundays.
How do you experience the reality of Psalm 16:11 regarding joy?Inner joy comes from anchoring your rejoicing in the unchanging Lord rather than shifting outward circumstances or people.
What's the difference between teachers and prophets?A teacher explains the scriptures systematically, while a prophet speaks a timely, challenging, or comforting word directly into the immediate needs of a situation.
What does it mean for God to draw us through the fire?God allows testing and trials to give us the opportunity to exercise our free will in obedience of faith and prove our relationship as His children.
What is the wiser biblical way for a church body to continue?The biblical pattern involves apostolic oversight in planting churches and appointing elders, rather than corporate-style CEO hiring practices.
How can we help someone and bring them to Christ?Believers bring others to Christ through active personal witnessing, distributing tracts, and relying on the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Is it right to sell books in the church?Selling books or items for personal profit is wrong, but selling them without taking royalties to cover printing costs and support the church is acceptable.
What is the true mark of humility?The true mark of humility is looking at Jesus—how He served others, deflected all glory to the Father, and guarded His heart against pride.
