The Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 1: Prophecy -- Santosh Poonen -- March 6, 2022
http://rlcf.church/media/sermons/mark-gods-presence-church-prophecy River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker argues that the true test for the presence of God in a church is not emotional feeling or physical sensation, but rather adherence to the Word of God, which serves as the only reliable 'microscope.' He specifically points to prophecy as a mark of God's presence, contrasting it with speaking in tongues. True prophecy, according to 1 Corinthians 14, results in an unbeliever being convicted and called to account by all, leading them to acknowledge God's presence.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Testing for the Real Presence of GodMany people mistake physical feelings for the presence of God, but the true test of spiritual reality is the word of God, which exposes counterfeit experiences and empowers believers to overcome sin.
Prophecy as a Mark of God's PresenceTrue prophecy in a church meeting brings deep conviction to unbelievers and ungifted individuals, revealing the secrets of their heart so they acknowledge God is truly present.
Contrasting Tongues and ProphecyPaul contrasts the gift of tongues with prophecy, correcting the mistaken notion that speaking in tongues is the primary mark of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Prophetic Purpose of the SpiritPeter points to the prophecy of Joel on the day of Pentecost to show that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit empowers sons, daughters, and all believers to prophesy.
Simeon's Prophecy Over JesusSimeon's prophecy over the infant Jesus reveals that the presence of Christ in the body brings the piercing of souls and exposes the thoughts of many hearts.Luke 2:25
Prophecy is for the Benefit of OthersBelievers are explicitly commanded to earnestly desire and seek the gift of prophecy because it builds up the body of Christ.
Love as the Foundation for Spiritual GiftsBefore seeking spiritual gifts, believers must walk in love, abandoning jealousy, arrogance, and selfishness so that God can prepare them to use gifts properly.
Defining True ProphecyProphecy is speaking God's word to men for edification, exhortation, and consolation, directly building up the church in understandable language.
Prophecy Comes from Witnessing Christ's MajestyTrue prophecy flows from knowing Christ personally and being an eyewitness of His majesty, matching the biblical truth that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.
Removing Worthless Speech to ProphesyTo speak prophetically, believers must separate the precious from the worthless in their speech, constantly refining their thoughts and words like silver tried in a furnace.
The Example of Samuel Learning to Hear GodSamuel learned to hear God's voice and speak words that did not fall to the ground because he maintained a life of humble obedience to authority from a young age.
Related messages
- The Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 2: Spiritual Songs -- Santosh Poonen -- March 20, 2022Santosh Poonen · 59m
- Zac Poonen - God's Presence Is the Mark of a True ChurchZac Poonen · 42m
- The Lord Hears the Afflicted Who Seek Him With all Their Heart -- Santosh Poonen -- August 27, 2023Santosh Poonen · 15m
