Accepted And Blessed By God
Zac Poonen teaches that believers are accepted and blessed by God despite failures, emphasizing the importance of faith, overcoming discouragement and self-condemnation, and living in the assurance of God's predestined love and provision.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of overcoming discouragement and self-condemnation by relying on the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus and the truth that believers are accepted in the beloved. It highlights the need to give thanks to God, maintain a spirit of gratitude, and remember that God's grace empowers us in our weaknesses. The message encourages believers to overcome Satan's accusations by declaring the victory of the blood of the Lamb and living a life of thankfulness and rejoicing in the Lord always.
Sermon Outline
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I. Overcoming Discouragement and Self-Condemnation
- Discouragement comes from repeated defeat and lack of instruction
- Self-condemnation arises from comparing oneself to others
- God’s acceptance and the Holy Spirit’s filling bring deliverance
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II. Jesus’ Intercession and Our Faith
- Jesus prays for believers so their faith will not fail
- Satan accuses, but Jesus advocates for us
- Peter’s denial illustrates God’s allowance for failure to humble us
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III. God’s Predestination and Our Assurance
- God chose us before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4)
- We are accepted in the beloved Son and called to holiness
- Balance between God’s predestination and human free will
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IV. Practical Faith and God’s Provision
- Trusting God leads to provision without worldly support
- Faith must be nurtured daily through Scripture
- God works all things together for good for those who love Him
Key Quotes
“These are two no entry roads: discouragement and self-condemnation. Please keep this in your mind always.” — Zac Poonen
“I have been accepted in the beloved Son of God. I'm accepted. That is the beginning of our Christian life.” — Zac Poonen
“God makes everything work together for good to those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Reject discouragement and self-condemnation by remembering Jesus’ intercession and your acceptance in Him.
- Daily nurture your faith by reading and meditating on Scripture to stay connected to God’s strength.
- Trust God’s sovereign plan and provision even in difficult circumstances, knowing He works all things for your good.