Fellowship with Christ in His Death
Zac Poonen emphasizes that true fellowship with Christ in His death involves daily dying to self and actively partaking in the brokenness of Jesus' body, not merely observing a ritual.
This sermon emphasizes the significance of partaking in the breaking of bread as a symbol of fellowship with Christ's sacrifice, not as a mere ritual. It highlights the importance of daily dying to self to follow Jesus, contrasting it with the once-for-all experience of being born again. The message stresses the need for genuine desire and self-examination when participating in the Lord's table, proclaiming Jesus' death through one's life.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Jesus' institution of the Lord's Table in Luke 22
- The significance of timing and eagerness to fellowship with Christ
- The symbolism of the broken bread as Christ's body given for us
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II
- Distinguishing doctrine from history in Scripture
- Breaking bread as remembrance, not ritual
- The importance of understanding the Lord's Supper as fellowship in Christ's death
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III
- Daily dying to self as essential for following Jesus
- Breaking bread as a testimony of ongoing commitment, not past salvation
- Warning against partaking in an unworthy manner
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IV
- Self-examination before partaking
- The Lord accepts the desire to take up the cross daily
- Encouragement to partake reverently and with a growing heart
Key Quotes
“I want to partake of that dying in my own life every day.” — Zac Poonen
“If you don't want to take up the cross, if you don't want to enter into the dying of Jesus every day, please, when the bread comes, pass it on.” — Zac Poonen
“If you have a desire, it is accepted.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Approach the Lord's Table with a heart eager to fellowship with Christ in His death daily.
- Examine yourself before partaking to ensure you have the desire to take up your cross each day.
- Understand that partaking in the Lord's Supper is a living testimony of your ongoing commitment to follow Jesus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Zac Poonen say breaking bread should not be a ritual?
Because breaking bread is meant to be a meaningful fellowship in Christ's death, reflecting a daily commitment to die to self, not just a routine observance.
What does the broken bread symbolize according to the sermon?
It symbolizes Jesus' body given on the cross for us and our participation in His dying daily.
How often does Zac Poonen suggest believers should partake in the Lord's Supper?
It can be as often as desired—daily, weekly, or monthly—depending on the believer's heart and fellowship.
What is the significance of self-examination before taking the bread and cup?
Self-examination ensures that one is partaking worthily by having the desire to take up the cross daily, avoiding guilt like those who crucified Christ.
Where should Christians derive their doctrines from, according to Zac Poonen?
From the teaching sections of Scripture, such as the epistles and Jesus' teachings, rather than the historical books like Acts.