Building the Family Before Building the Church - Zac Poonen - May 28, 2016
http://rlcfchurch.org/having-the-mind-of-christ RLCF Family Conference 2016 - Message #5 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The message emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong foundation within the family unit before attempting to build up the church. It suggests that the principles and commitment modeled within the home are crucial for the health and growth of the larger body of believers. A strong family life is presented as a prerequisite for effective church ministry.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
God loves us as He loved JesusThe foundational truth of the Bible is that the heavenly Father loves believers as much as He loves Jesus, granting us the same care and victory.
The principle of humbling oneselfJesus was exalted because He humbled Himself, and God follows the same law of exalting those who humble themselves.Philippians 2:8–9
Walking in the light and dealing with conscious sinWe must live with a clear conscience by confessing and forsaking conscious sin every day while the blood of Jesus cleanses unconscious sin.
Putting God first in marriageJust as Adam and Eve saw God first before each other, husband and wife must find their ultimate satisfaction in the Lord.
Growing in light and extending mercyBecause spiritual light increases gradually like the rising sun, partners must bear with and forgive one another's differing levels of maturity.
Taking anger seriouslyJesus warned that unaddressed anger in the heart is a serious danger that can lead to hell, requiring immediate confession and forgiveness.Matthew 5:22–24
Guarding against lust and impurityJesus also taught that lustful patterns of thinking are spiritually lethal, requiring radical steps to protect the mind and purity.
The roots of moral decaySevere moral failures often stem from earlier attitudes of arrogance, unbridled appetite, laziness, and a stingy spirit.Ezekiel 16:49
Family qualifications for spiritual leadershipNew Testament leadership standards emphasize managing one's household and children well with dignity and respect.
Protecting the Christian homeBecause the home is the primary target of satanic attack, families must cultivate a godly environment of forgiveness, prayer, and mutual respect.
Angelic ministry and God's backingBelievers can take courage knowing that God provides ministering angels to protect and serve those who inherit salvation.
