Believe Three Truths About God
Zac Poonen teaches that believers must embrace God as their loving Father, cultivating intimate, childlike prayer and faith in His unfailing love and care.
This sermon emphasizes the shift in approaching God after Jesus came to earth, focusing on the importance of addressing God as both Lord and Father in prayer. It highlights the significance of understanding God's love and care, the authority He holds over the universe, and the need to align with His perfect plan. The message encourages a close relationship with God, listening to the Holy Spirit's guidance, and respecting Him in all aspects of life.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Jesus introduced a new way to approach God as Father, not just Lord
- Believers should pray with intimacy, calling God 'Daddy' to reflect closeness
- Old Testament believers could not call God Father due to the temple curtain
-
II
- God cares about both our spiritual and earthly needs
- It is right to pray for daily needs, jobs, education, and marriage
- God’s fatherly care is demonstrated through provision and relationship
-
III
- God’s love is unconditional and He welcomes sinners who return
- The story of the prodigal son illustrates God running to embrace repentant children
- Even when believers fall, God prays they will not lose faith
-
IV
- God humbles His children through trials and sometimes allows falls to break pride
- Jesus prayed for Peter’s faith to remain despite his denial
- Believers must trust God’s love even at their lowest points
Key Quotes
“Jesus said in Matthew 6, verse 9, pray then in this way, Our Father who art in heaven, that is how we are to address him.” — Zac Poonen
“If you only call him Lord, there is something wrong. Because we must also call him Father.” — Zac Poonen
“It is the only place in the Bible where you see a picture of God running.” — Zac Poonen
“I pray to him like a one year old child. That's how you must pray. Daddy.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Begin to pray regularly addressing God as 'Father' or 'Daddy' to deepen intimacy in your relationship.
- Bring all your needs, big or small, to God in prayer, trusting His loving care.
- When you fall into sin, remember God’s love is unconditional and return to Him with faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should we call God 'Father' instead of just 'Lord'?
Calling God 'Father' reflects the intimate, personal relationship Jesus taught, showing closeness and trust beyond formal reverence.
Is it wrong to pray for earthly needs like jobs and marriage?
No, God cares about our earthly needs and encourages us to pray for daily provision and life situations.
What if I keep falling into sin? Will God still love me?
Yes, God’s love is unconditional; He welcomes you back when you repent and will not stop loving you no matter how far you have fallen.
Why does God sometimes allow us to fall into sin?
God may allow falls to humble us and break our pride when other methods have failed, so we can grow spiritually.
How can I develop a closer relationship with God as my Father?
Pray with childlike faith and honesty, calling Him 'Daddy,' and trust in His loving care for both big and small matters.