Questions And Answers by Sunil Poonen (Teens Meeting)
Visit our website for more information: www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The speaker addresses the feeling of having a 'dead conscience' regarding sin, assuring the listener that the desire to be saved proves God is already working in them. He encourages running back to the Lord, citing Isaiah 55, and emphasizes that God's pardon is abundant and never too late. The message concludes by distinguishing between God's non-condemning welcome (John 8) and the call to live differently moving forward.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What should I do if my conscience feels completely dead and I want to be saved?The desire to be saved proves God is working in you, so you should run immediately to the Lord who promises to abundantly pardon.
How do I overcome a cycle of self-condemnation?Understand that God does not condemn you when you come with repentance, and follow the complete gospel which also commands you to go and sin no more.
How can I seek God when I secretly struggle with sin and don't feel worthy?Ignore what others think of your external goodness and bring your true heart back to God, who will welcome you with open arms without exposing your sin to everyone.
How do I know if I am ready to be baptized and have the assurance of God?Baptism is a public enrollment in the school of Jesus, and the only requirement is recognizing you are a sinner with a desire to not sin anymore.
How do I know if my repentance was genuine and complete?Genuine repentance is a changed heart and turning around from the world to follow God, rather than relying on formulas, emotions, or memorized words.
Why do I return to my usual routine after feeling spiritually renewed?You must daily surrender your day to the Lord instead of trying to live on your own strength, avoiding the trap of wandering away from dependence on Jesus.
How should I handle friendships in this perverse world?Live without grumbling or disputing and hold fast to the word of God, serving as a bright light to others while fleeing from relationships that lead you into sin.
Is it sinful to have romantic feelings for someone of the opposite gender?Attraction was created by God and is not sinful, but you must be careful not to let romantic infatuations lead you into lust, daydreaming, or distraction from God.
How can I overcome the temptation to be proud?Pride happens when you take your eyes off the cross, so you must constantly remember that everything you have—including your abilities and salvation—is a gift from God.
How can I become a light for my classmates in school?Your witness is primarily your life—marked by a lack of complaining, peace in difficult situations, and love—rather than winning arguments with them.
How can I balance reading the Bible and studying for school?View Bible reading as reading a love letter from your heavenly Father, and treat your daily work and studies as if you are working directly for the Lord.
How can I control sexual desires and overcome watching pornography?Pursue constant fellowship with your heavenly Father rather than just fighting the sin, recognizing that impurity acts as a poison that separates you from God.
How can I overcome loneliness and have faith in Christ?Take encouragement from the life of Jesus, who experienced deep rejection and loneliness on earth yet was never truly lonely because His Father was always by His side.
How can I overcome laziness and procrastination?Be diligent in everything you do as working for the Lord, following the example of Jesus who was faithful and thorough even in small, practical tasks.
How can I break my addiction to my phone?See excessive binge-watching as a slow spiritual poison, make the most of your time, and surrender your daily habits so that you are comfortable with Jesus watching over you.
What should I do if I feel like I don't have any skills or career prospects?God has given everyone at least one talent; be faithful with what you have been given and trust that the Lord will provide for your needs without comparing yourself to others.
What should I do if my parents won't allow me to have video games?Obey and submit to your parents even if you disagree, gaining the eternal reward of honoring your earthly authorities rather than fighting arguments.
What if my parents pushing me toward God makes me want to pull away?Do not let parental pressure turn you away from God; pursue a personal relationship with Him for yourself rather than just seeking your parents' approval.
How do I know what God's will is for my career and life?Present your body daily as a living sacrifice and refuse to be conformed to the world, and God will supernaturally prove His good will to you.
Is it wrong for my parents to push me to be first in everything?Desiring excellence and diligence is good, but striving for first place out of selfish ambition or a desire for human fame contradicts the humble servant heart of the kingdom.
How should I handle discipline from parents who are imperfect or hypocritical?Follow the example of Jesus by remaining in subjection to imperfect authorities, focusing on letting God shine His light on your own heart rather than judging them.
How can I distinguish God's voice from other voices?God's voice comes through Scripture, a quiet inner peace, and the counsel of godly parents and elders when you are fully surrendered to Him.
How do I know if I am growing in biblical wisdom?Growth in wisdom is marked by purity, peace, gentleness, mercy, and a lack of hypocrisy, as defined in James, rather than the selfish ambition of the world.
