The Church That Christ Is Building - Charles Banna
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Summary
Jesus's core message, summarized in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizes that true discipleship requires not just hearing God's word, but actively acting upon and obeying it. Those who build their lives on this solid foundation will endure life's trials, while those who only hear the word without practice will find their lives collapse. The speaker also warns against false prophets who preach only parts of the gospel, urging listeners to examine the fruit—the character and life—of their teachings.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Two foundations at the end of the Sermon on the MountJesus summarizes His teaching by comparing two types of builders: one who hears and acts upon His words, and one who merely hears them.Matthew 7:24
Emotional hearers versus doers of the WordEmotional listeners get excited by sermons for a few days, whereas the person building on the rock continually meditates, prays, and lives out God's word.
The foolish builder and the broad gateThose who do not act on Christ's words build on sand and face ruin, just as many enter the broad gate leading to destruction while few find the narrow gate.
Beware of false prophetsJesus warns against false teachers who promote an easy gospel without obedience, and explains that true believers recognize them by their fruit and character.
Teaching them to observe all commandsBefore leaving earth, Jesus commanded His disciples to make disciples and teach them to obey everything He commanded, rather than simply gathering easy converts.
Obedience is better than sacrificeKing Saul's partial obedience was severely rebuked in the Old Testament, demonstrating that God desires total obedience over religious sacrifices.1 Samuel 15:22
Proving our love through obedienceJesus emphasizes in John's Gospel that the true test of loving Him is keeping His commandments and word.
Taking up your cross dailyFollowing Jesus requires denying our own will every time it conflicts with God's word, choosing the way of the cross in our daily decisions.Luke 9:23
Doing the will of the FatherNot everyone who calls Jesus Lord will enter the kingdom, but only those who do the will of the Father, proving themselves doers rather than self-deluded hearers.
Salvation is past, present, and futureScripture describes salvation in three stages: we were saved from past guilt by grace, we are being saved as we repent and obey daily, and we shall be saved fully at the end.
Finding favor with God like NoahJust as Noah found favor in a wicked generation, believers today are built up by God's grace and mercy to be part of His church.
Cleansing the church with the washing of waterChrist gave Himself for the church to sanctify and cleanse her with the word, presenting her holy and blameless without spot or wrinkle.
Not by might nor by power, but by My SpiritThe Lord builds His church by His Spirit, bringing forth the topstone with shouts of grace as believers fully yield their hearts to Him.Zechariah 4:6–7
