Spiritual Authority in the Body of Christ -- Santosh Poonen -- May 29, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/spiritual-authority-in-the-body-of-christ River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that believers must move beyond being passive Christians and actively participate as members of the living Body of Christ. The speaker emphasizes that being a disciple involves having a tongue controlled by the Holy Spirit, which equips one to speak God's word to others. He urges the congregation to use their gifts and relationships to minister to others, recognizing that every member has a responsibility to be a witness.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Danger of Passive ChristianityChristians are urged not to fall into the lazy habit of treating church merely as a Sunday morning gathering, but to recognize they are members of the living body of Christ meant to be used every day.
Opening the Ear Every MorningBy asking God each morning to open our spiritual ears rather than letting them get clogged with worldly media, we position ourselves to hear His voice and be sent to those who are hurting.Isaiah 50:4
Living in the Light of God's JudgmentWhile right doctrine is essential, we must practically apply our faith, remembering that God will one day judge the secret thoughts and hidden sins of all people.
Demonstrating and Proclaiming the New WineThe vision of the church is to first demonstrate the divine nature of Christ in our daily lives and homes before proclaiming it to others.
The Authority of Jesus and the Local ChurchJesus holds all authority in heaven and on earth, and He stations messengers and lampstands in local churches to maintain order and build disciples.
Earthen Vessels and the Inverted Triangle of AuthorityGod uses human agents as weak earthen vessels so that all the glory goes to Him, modeling spiritual authority not as a hierarchy at the top, but as an upside-down triangle where leaders serve at the bottom.2 Corinthians 4:7
Gifts Given to Every MemberEvery single believer has been given a measure of grace and a spiritual gift from Christ to build up the entire body.Ephesians 4:7
Mutual Care and SympathyTrue membership in a local church is marked by mutual care, where members suffer together when one suffers and rejoice together when one is honored.
Apostles, Prophets, Teachers, and EvangelistsGod appoints apostles, prophets, teachers, and evangelists within the church structure to provide oversight, prophetic edification, sound teaching, and the integration of new converts.
