Six Verses That Describe Our Vision - Zac Poonen
Visit our website for more information: www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that a church's vision must remain focused on God's original calling, which is building the body rather than accumulating physical assets. He stresses that the foundation of Christian life must be a constant recognition of God's boundless mercy, as we continually discover areas of sin and unchristlike living. This realization should lead to a life of constant repentance and a desire to live to reflect Christ's likeness.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Begin with God's mercyThe first verse behind the pulpit reminds believers to be merciful as God has been merciful. We must never forget His forgiveness and mercy, needing it daily as we grow and discover areas of unlikeness to Christ.
If you fear God, you need fear nothing elseSatan uses fear to control people, but scripture exhorts believers not to be afraid. Revering and respecting God eliminates all other fears concerning the future, sickness, or human threats.
All things are possible to him who believesExamining the context of the rich young ruler and the disciples, the speaker highlights the necessity of absolute honesty before God and faith for spiritual victory over sin.Mark 9:23
God gives His grace only to the humbleHumility is governed by an unchanging law just like gravity: God resists the proud but pours out grace on the humble. Believers must compare themselves to Jesus alone rather than other people.
It is more blessed to give than to receiveThe church relies on trusting God rather than taking mandatory collections or tithes under old covenant rules. True blessing and happiness come from giving oneself, time, and resources rather than living like a miser.Acts 20:35
If we judge ourselves, we will not be judgedThe final verse teaches that rigorous self-judgment on earth spares the believer from being judged by the Lord. Believers must abandon the habit of judging others and focus entirely on examining themselves.
