2.Knowing Our Father In Heaven - Zac Poonen
What Christ Looks For In The Church
Summary
The speaker urges listeners to prioritize spiritual health over physical health, comparing the care given to bodies versus the care given to souls. He emphasizes that true discipleship requires a complete surrender of life to Christ, likening this relationship to being a purchased slave rather than a voluntary favor. The central message is that believers must recognize that their lives belong entirely to God because Christ paid the ultimate price for their redemption.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Giving everything to ChristWhen someone is gripped by the incredible sacrifice Jesus made, their natural response is to give their entire life to Him rather than living with a tenth-attitude.
Living as a bond-slave of JesusBelievers often act as though their life still belongs to them, forgetting that conversion means becoming a bond-slave who was purchased by the blood of Christ.
The two sides of the coinChrist died not only for our sins, but also so that those who live should no longer live for themselves but 100 percent for Him.1 Corinthians 15:32 Corinthians 5:15
What is Christ looking for in a church?Christ wants a church where people recognize they no longer belong to themselves, unlike social clubs formed around language, community, or background.
Breaking down every barrierJesus came to set people free from societal and racial barriers, creating a new covenant community where diverse people are united solely by their love for Him.
Jesus making His Father our FatherOn the day of His resurrection, Jesus joined His Father and our Father together, desiring that we know the Father just as intimately as He did.John 20:17
Deliverance from orphan insecurityThe Holy Spirit comes to live inside believers so they will no longer act like orphans, whose hallmark trait is deep-seated insecurity and constant criticalness.John 14:16–18
Jesus was not disturbed by desertionWhen a multitude of disciples left Him, Jesus remained entirely undisturbed because He knew the Father was with Him and those given by the Father would stay.
A church that functions like a bodyJust as the hand or foot does not compete with other parts, a healthy church rejoices together when members are honored and grieves when they suffer.
The true definition of eternal lifeEternal life is defined as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ, leading believers to address God intimately as Father.
God as the blessed sovereign controllerRecognizing that our Father is the blessed controller of all things brings supreme security and eliminates anxiety about circumstances, bosses, or difficulties.
The passion of a true servant of GodTrue servants of God admonish, correct, and teach believers with all wisdom so that everyone may be presented perfect in Christ.Colossians 1:28
