Faith In The Resurrection - Zac Poonen
Summary
The central message is that true Christian belief requires more than just intellectual assent; one must believe in the heart that Christ was raised from the dead, as stated in Romans 10. The speaker emphasizes developing the ability to discern truth through the 'eyes and years of the heart,' rather than relying solely on physical senses. This spiritual vision, rooted in the resurrection, is presented as the means to overcome the greatest human fear: the fear of death.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What must we believe in our heart to be saved?While most Christians think salvation requires believing Christ died for sins, Romans 10 emphasizes believing in your heart that God raised Him from the dead.Romans 10:9–10
Developing the eyes and ears of the heartBelievers often make decisions based on physical senses, but true spiritual discernment comes from seeing and hearing through the eyes and ears of the heart.
Conquering the ultimate fear of deathJust as defeating Goliaths army required killing Goliath first, conquering all lesser fears requires dealing with the root fear of death through Christ's victory.
Making Christ first and last in your lifeIf Jesus is not first and last in a believer's life, the devil retains the power of death over them, leading to a life filled with anxiety and fear.
Studying God's word with the seriousness of studentsJust as students study frantically for entrance exams because they believe it is for their good, true faith in God's word would produce a mighty spiritual revival.
How Abraham saw the day of ChristAbraham was the first person in scripture to understand the resurrection, seeing Christ's day when he walked up Mount Moriah to sacrifice Isaac.John 8:56
Considering that God is able to raise the deadFaced with the paradox of God's promise through Isaac and the command to sacrifice him, Abraham concluded that God would raise Isaac from the dead.Hebrews 11:17–19
The greatest truth for believersWhile unbelievers need to know Christ died and rose, believers need to know they were crucified with Christ so they can experience resurrection life.
God raised Jesus from the deadJesus had the power to lay down His life and take it up again, but He chose only to lay it down and leave the resurrection to His Father.John 10:17
Standing back and leaving vengeance to GodBelievers who trust in resurrection do not seek revenge or defend their self-life; they stand back, bless their enemies, and leave vengeance to God.Romans 12:17–20
Denying self daily to follow JesusJesus calls anyone who wants to follow Him to deny their self-life, take up their cross daily, and experience the power of the resurrection.Luke 9:23
