Looking at Jesus' Example — Zac Poonen — April 16, 2023
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/looking-at-jesus-example River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon contrasts the miracles of the Old Testament with the superior provision found in Jesus Christ. The speaker argues that while Old Testament miracles were external and did not change inner lives, following Jesus—the author and perfecter of faith—is far better. The secret to the Christian life is keeping one's eyes fixed on Jesus, especially remembering what he endured on the cross, which defeated Satan.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
God has provided something better than Old Testament miraclesEven the great heroes and miracles of the Old Testament did not receive the ultimate promise, because God has provided something far better for us under the New Covenant.
Fixing our eyes on Jesus and following His exampleThe secret of the Christian life is looking away from everything else unto Jesus, who endured the cross and modeled how to run the race with endurance.
The bronze serpent as a picture of Satan defeatedJust as the bronze serpent in the wilderness brought healing when looked upon, Jesus on the cross rendered the devil powerless so we do not have to fear him.John 3:14
Resisting the devil through submission and unityIf we submit our lives fully to God and stand in agreement with another believer like a spouse, the devil has no entry and must flee swiftly.James 4:7
Knowing the Father's love just as He loved JesusJesus prayed that His disciples would know the Father loves them with the exact same measure of love He has for Jesus.John 17:23
Learning from Jesus' example in NazarethWhen people in His hometown rejected Jesus' message and tried to throw Him off a cliff, He quietly passed through their midst, showing how God protects His own.Luke 4:16
Prospering spiritually through meditation on God's wordAvoiding sinful company and daily meditating on the scriptures brings true spiritual prosperity and equips a person to bless multitudes.
Jesus opening the scriptures on the road to EmmausAfter His resurrection, Jesus walked with disciples to Emmaus and carefully explained all the scriptures concerning Himself from Genesis to Malachi.
Practicing future forgiveness like JesusWhen the Pharisees insulted Jesus, He offered forgiveness rather than vengeance, modeling a lifestyle of forgiving people even before they commit offenses against us.
