The Ministry of Decreasing and Being a Help -- Santosh Poonen -- November 1, 2020
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/ministry-decreasing-and-being-help River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker draws lessons from the story of King Josiah, emphasizing that when we face hopelessness or sin, the response should be deep humility and weeping before the Lord. He encourages the congregation to take heart in the promise that God hears a broken heart, leading to restoration. Ultimately, he focuses on the memory verse, interpreting 'all my people will be righteous' not as a perfect, flawless life, but as a continuous, quality possession of God's grace and presence.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Josiah's tender heart before the LordKing Josiah became king at eight years old, and when the long-lost book of the law was later found, he humbled himself and wept with a broken heart over sin, prompting God to hear him.
What does a forever possession of the land mean?The promise that all God's people will be righteous and possess the land forever refers to a 24/7 quality of life characterized by constant joy, peace, and love.
Bearing fruit as a branch of God's plantingThis continuous righteous life is not attained through hard work, but by being planted like a branch in the vine so that God receives the glory.
Turning the world upside downThe early believers in Thessalonica were accused of turning the world upside down, demonstrating that the kingdom of god is the exact opposite of the world's systems.Acts 17:6
Boasting only in knowing the LordBelievers are instructed not to boast in human wisdom, might, or riches, but rather in knowing the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness.Jeremiah 9:23
Paul boasting in his weaknessesRather than bragging about worldly abilities, the Apostle Paul boasted in his weaknesses because Christ told him that His grace is perfected in human weakness.2 Corinthians 11:30
Equipping the hundred percentGod gives specific visible ministries like pastors and teachers to equip the entire body of believers so that every single member functions in the work of service.Ephesians 4:11–12
The ministry of the helpJust as the Holy Spirit is called the Helper and Jesus washed filthy feet without seeking applause, believers should seek the anonymous, hidden ministry of serving others.
Decreasing precedes the manifestation of JesusTrue spiritual breakthrough in marriages and relationships requires believers to humble themselves, think less of themselves, and allow Christ to be revealed.
Being filled with the spirit of the helpBeing filled with the Holy Spirit means receiving the spirit of the helper, choosing to serve without demanding credit, and putting others first.
