Words of Encouragement — Santosh Poonen & Chetan Chadalavada — September 4, 2022
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that true peace, whether in marriage, home, or church, is not merely the absence of conflict but is found in the presence of Jesus Christ. He draws from Ephesians 2 to explain that Christ is our peace, reconciling us into one body. Furthermore, he stresses that the goal is oneness, not mere numbers, requiring pure devotion to Jesus and being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Ephesians chapter 2 and the peace of ChristReferring to Ephesians chapter 2, the speaker notes how Jesus made both groups into one and broke down the dividing wall.
What does peace actually mean?Peace is often viewed merely as a lack of war or arguing, but biblical peace is actually a person: Jesus himself.
Being filled with the Holy SpiritBeing filled with the Holy Spirit means being filled with the spirit of Jesus, which brings increasing peace to our homes and local church.
The second thing: not many, but oneWhile the world counts churches by attendance or numbers of members, God stops counting at one when believers are made truly one in Christ.
Reconciliation in the local bodyCommitment to a local church body is where we prove we are being made one, dying to self rather than wandering from place to place.
Gathering in the name of JesusThe name of Jesus acts as a clear boundary where He can dwell in our midst and make us one, echoing His prayer in John 17.Matthew 18:20
Preserving unity and spiritual authorityBelievers must be diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, because Satan is afraid of a unified church that has spiritual authority.
A generation that does not know the LordLooking at the transition from Moses and Joshua into the Book of Judges, a generation arose that did not know the Lord or His works.
Marked for a sincere concernIn Ezekiel's vision, God marks those who sigh and groan over the abominations and dishonor happening in His midst.
Guarding against unchristlike attitudesInstead of secretly rejoicing when well-known leaders fall into sin, believers should grieve that the Lord's name is being dishonored.
God acting for His holy name's sakeGod promises in Ezekiel to cleanse His people, put His spirit within them, and cause them to walk in His statutes for the sake of His holy name.
