Jesus is our Model - Santosh Poonen - April 9, 2017
http://rlcf.church/sermons/jesus-our-model River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model for Christian living. It encourages the congregation to emulate Jesus' character, actions, and devotion in all aspects of life. Following Jesus' example is presented as the core requirement for true discipleship.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why pride prevents us from overcomingThe only reason we cannot cast out a demon or overcome spiritual opposition is pride, because pride is the one thing that unites us with the devil.
Jesus is our role modelThe core secret of the new covenant is that Jesus is our daily role model, lived out by faith as Christ lives in us.Galatians 2:20
Applying the model to critical judgmentalismInstead of indulging in human criticism or jealous thoughts, we look to Jesus as our model to guide our words and put an end to negative conversations.James 3:14
Modesty and social media motivationsJust as Jesus is our model for clothing to magnify His preeminence rather than worldly fashion, He is also our model for how we speak and post online without hidden motives.
Rejecting a complaining attitudeWalking in the new covenant means we are required to always rejoice rather than accepting a grumbling or unthankful mood as okay.
The light of the world in human fleshJesus declared Himself the light of the world while on earth, and now we are called to let the divine nature shine through our human flesh.
Letting your good works shineBeing the light of the world is not about public preaching stunts, but laying down our lives on our own initiative so others see Christ in us.Matthew 5:14–16
Fulfilling every stroke of the lawJesus did not abolish the law but came to fulfill it, showing that even the smallest details matter to God when He writes His laws on our hearts.
Our response to the smallest commandmentsThe distinguishing mark of the new covenant is our attitude toward the least of God's commandments, rather than neglecting the weightier matters like justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
The bride of Christ versus the multitudeOvercomers who yield every area of their lives to God aim for His highest calling to be His bride, rather than settling for a lesser place.
Choosing Christ as our sole role modelThose who make the world their model fall into conflict, but those who follow leaders who imitate Christ will let the Holy Spirit transform their hearts completely.
