(Clip) Polycarp Testifying That Jesus Is Lord
Zac Poonen highlights the unwavering faith and testimony of Polycarp, who boldly declared Jesus as Lord even unto death.
This sermon tells the inspiring story of Polycarp, a disciple of the Apostle John, who faced persecution and death for his faith in refusing to deny Christ. Despite being given the chance to live if he renounced his beliefs, Polycarp remained steadfast, declaring his loyalty to Jesus Christ even in the face of death. His unwavering faith and commitment to Christ serve as a powerful example of true devotion and trust in God.
Full Transcript
I've heard that in the second century there was one of the disciples of the Apostle John, who was the elder brother in the Church of Smyrna. His name was Polycarp. He was converted when he was four years old and he spent many years with the Apostle John.
And when he was about 90 years old, the Roman people who ruled the country sent to capture him because he refused to bow down to Caesar and refused to say that Caesar is Lord and was bringing people to Christ. And they went to capture him. And he was so gracious and nice to the people who came to capture him, they felt almost ashamed to capture this old white-haired man, white-bearded man.
And they said, sorry, we've got to do it. We don't feel like doing it, but we've got to take you because our boss told you to. And they brought him before the ruler, the Roman ruler, and he said, listen, I don't want to kill you.
Just say Caesar is Lord and deny Christ and I'll let you go. Just say the words. Just say the words.
It's enough. You can live as you like. You know his testimony was, 86 years I have served my Savior and he has only done me good.
How can I deny him? You can do what you like. Jesus Christ is Lord. They burnt him.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to Polycarp and his background
- His close relationship with Apostle John
- His early conversion and lifelong faithfulness
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II
- The Roman authorities' attempt to capture Polycarp
- Polycarp's graciousness towards his captors
- The moral dilemma faced by the Roman soldiers
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III
- Polycarp's refusal to deny Christ
- The offer to save his life by declaring Caesar as Lord
- Polycarp's bold declaration: 'Jesus Christ is Lord'
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IV
- The martyrdom of Polycarp
- The testimony of a life well-lived for Christ
- Encouragement to remain faithful under persecution
Key Quotes
“86 years I have served my Savior and he has only done me good.” — Zac Poonen
“Just say Caesar is Lord and deny Christ and I'll let you go. Just say the words.” — Zac Poonen
“Jesus Christ is Lord.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Stand firm in your faith even when pressured to deny Christ.
- Remember that a life devoted to Jesus brings lasting good.
- Boldly proclaim Jesus as Lord in all circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Polycarp?
Polycarp was a disciple of the Apostle John and an early Christian leader in Smyrna known for his steadfast faith.
Why was Polycarp arrested?
He was arrested for refusing to worship Caesar and for proclaiming Jesus as Lord.
What was Polycarp's response when asked to deny Christ?
He refused to deny Christ and boldly declared that Jesus Christ is Lord.
What can we learn from Polycarp's testimony?
We learn the importance of faithfulness and courage in confessing Jesus even under threat of death.
How does this sermon encourage believers today?
It encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and boldly proclaim Jesus as Lord regardless of opposition.