Recognizing Two Subtle Manifestations of Self — Santosh Poonen — May 19, 2024
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/recognizing-two-subtle-manifestations-of-self River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is the necessity of becoming a true disciple by constantly denying the self, which is contrasted with the subtle manifestations of self-commendation (boasting) and self-condemnation. The speaker draws heavily from Peter's misguided attempt to comfort Jesus before the crucifixion, illustrating that when our ego is hurt, we can be tempted to defend ourselves rather than submitting to God's will. True discipleship requires putting the self completely to death.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Distinguishing the subtle deceptions of selfJesus taught that following Him requires looking closely at the subtle ways self manifests and deceives us.
What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?True Christians are disciples who follow Jesus, and Jesus made it clear that following Him requires denying self.Matthew 16:23
A simple definition of a discipleA disciple is one who is constantly denying all of self and putting the human ego completely to death.
Two subtle aspects of selfThe speaker introduces two similar manifestations of self: self-commendation (boasting) and self-condemnation.
How boasting is excluded by a law of faithBoasting, whether public or hidden in our thoughts, is eliminated through complete dependence on God as the source of everything.Romans 3:27
Boasting only in the LordScripture warns against boasting in wisdom, might, or riches, urging us instead to boast in knowing the Lord.Jeremiah 9:23
Anxiety as an indicator of inward prideAnxiety and worry reveal that we are inwardly relying on ourselves and loving riches rather than humbly casting our cares on God.
Self-commendation in hardworking serviceEven in hard work and service, like Martha, self-commendation can creep in when we rely on our own efforts and become troubled.
What is common between commendation and condemnation?Both self-commendation and self-condemnation involve 'self' sitting on the throne, which is why neither leads to true victory.
Why a dead person cannot failFailure happens because we are not yet dead to self; a truly dead person cannot fail because self is no longer trying to perform.
It is no longer I who live, but ChristWhen we stop beating ourselves up and embrace our crucifixion with Christ, His life and encouraging voice fill us instead.
True humility is thinking about yourself lessHumility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking about yourself less because self is buried and Christ is our focus.
