Questions & Answers for Men -- Zac Poonen -- October 14, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/questions-answers-men-oct2014 River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker discusses the importance of God's power over human might, referencing Gideon's army and Jesus' ministry. He recounts his personal journey, detailing his hunger for deep scripture study and the simplicity of the early church model, contrasting it with the materialism he observed. After periods of pride and defeat, he found restoration through the Holy Spirit and a deeper understanding of Christ's temptation, which led to the formation of a small, dedicated group meeting in private prayer and study.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How was the church started in Bangalore?Poonen recounts his background in the navy, his deep study of the Bible, and his realization that institutional Christianity lacked the simplicity and financial integrity found in the New Testament.
What does building a local church as a united body look like?Addressing why people fall away, Poonen explains that strong preaching of the cross naturally filters out those looking for convenience rather than true holiness.
Advice for believers unable to join local congregationsHe suggests gathering a small group of hungering believers in a home, listening to sound teachings, and growing organically without forcing a departure from existing churches.
How to witness to others without hypocrisyBelievers do not need to wait until they are perfect before witnessing; even a beginner in the faith can share what they have learned, much like a first-grader teaching a kindergartener.
The person and purpose of the Holy SpiritThe Holy Spirit is given primarily as a helper to enable believers to keep Jesus' commandments and deliver them from the insecurity of spiritual orphanhood.John 14:15–17
Practical ways to seek the baptism in the Holy SpiritHe advises seeking the baptism privately through deep spiritual thirst and quiet prayer at home rather than seeking emotional experiences in public meetings.
True spiritual zeal for the shy and introvertedTempering the fear of being introverted, Poonen notes that God uses diverse personalities, pointing out that both Peter and John were effective despite different temperaments.
Overcoming addiction to pornography and sexual sinTo conquer sexual temptation, men must train their minds to view others rightly, pray for purity, rely on the Holy Spirit, and actively run away from immorality as instructed in scripture.
Dealing with past memories and dreams of sinDisturbing dreams about past sins stem from the human memory rather than the devil or the Holy Spirit, and they will fade as the subconscious recognizes a genuine hatred for sin.
Advice for men concerning consuming alcoholPoonen advises avoiding alcohol entirely so as not to become a stumbling block to a weaker brother who might fall into addiction.
Facing pressure as family providers through job uncertaintiesBelievers must trust their heavenly father completely, casting off anxiety and prioritizing God's kingdom, secure in the promise that He knows and supplies all daily needs.
Navigating differences in spiritual zeal within marriageHusbands should lead spiritually uneven-yoked spouses with gentleness and patience, holding their hand like a child rather than running ahead in rigid self-righteousness.
Mothers working outside the homeWhile there is no strict biblical law against working, families should prioritize the care and upbringing of their children when financially possible.
The importance of spiritual self-disciplinePutting God first does not require reading the Bible all day, but rather beginning each morning in prayer and maintaining fellowship with God throughout daily responsibilities.
How to develop discernment about preachers and teachersBelievers should completely avoid preachers who demand money, seek to control personal decisions, or obsess over secondary issues like guaranteed physical healing rather than righteousness.Luke 16:13
