The Mark of God's Presence in a Church - 2: Spiritual Songs -- Santosh Poonen -- March 20, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/mark-gods-presence-church-2-spiritual-songs River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker discusses the marks of God's presence in a church, emphasizing that the goal of teaching should be to speak in simple, relatable language, rather than impressing people with knowledge. He stresses the importance of adhering to God's Word, particularly regarding principles like prophecy, and encourages the congregation to make foundational life decisions—committing to Jesus, choosing godly partners, and prioritizing God's kingdom above all else.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why share these messages?The speaker explains that following up on previous marks of God's presence, these teachings aim to be simple and life-blessing rather than merely impressive.
Passing truth to the next generationAddressing the children, the speaker encourages them to build their future on solid biblical principles so they can choose godly paths and fellowships later in life.
Discerning between soul and spiritThe speaker contrasts worldly and religious soulishness with true spirituality, noting that the sharp word of God is needed to divide between soul and spirit.
Testing our lives for the judgmentUsing the imagery of a fire testing our life's work, the speaker urges believers to judge themselves now so that only gold, silver, and precious stones remain.
Elisha and the minstrelIn 2 Kings 3, Elisha requests a musician to play so that the hand of the Lord can come upon him, demonstrating how prophetic music prepares the way for God's word.2 Kings 3:9
Jesus singing a hymn before GethsemaneAt the Last Supper, right before facing agonizing suffering, Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn, showing the right spirit of worship in testing times.Mark 14:22
Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songsUrging believers to be filled with the Spirit rather than being foolish, the speaker highlights the biblical command to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
Jesus enduring temptation in the wildernessJust as Jesus relied strictly on the Father's word when tempted after fasting, believers must use God's word to resist soulish temptations and vulnerabilities.
Avoiding celebrity culture and soulish musicThe speaker warns that music that focuses on human performance or emotionalism can easily lead a church away from the true anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Examining the lyrics we singUsing popular Christian songs as an example, the speaker urges believers to check song lyrics against scripture to ensure they accurately reflect biblical truth.
The true power of the cross and the SpiritTrue power comes from the word of the cross and the Holy Spirit, not merely from blood cleansing alone without the ongoing empowering of God's grace.1 Corinthians 1:18
Final exhortation on discernmentConcluding the message, the speaker encourages everyone to remain watchful and test every song and teaching by finding its basis directly in the Bible.
