Our Calling As A Church
Zac Poonen emphasizes the church's calling to humbly prepare for Christ's return through repentance, unity, and becoming more like Jesus.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of remembering where God has brought us from, the need for righteousness and not fearing the opinions of others, the call to be great in the sight of the Lord by being a voice like John the Baptist, the significance of repentance and preparing for the second coming of Christ, the focus on becoming more like Jesus, the unity and care within the body of Christ, and the danger of losing focus and falling into a form of godliness without power.
Sermon Outline
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I. Remembering Our Spiritual Quarry
- God dug us out from the quarry to build His temple
- Never forget God's past work in our lives
- We are called to righteousness with God's law in our hearts
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II. Our Calling to Repentance and Preparation
- Like John the Baptist, be a voice calling to repentance
- Repentance means turning from sin towards God
- Prepare the church for the second coming of Christ
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III. Unity and Honor in the Body of Christ
- All members, gifted or weak, are necessary
- True church honors the less presentable members abundantly
- Avoid division by caring equally for one another
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IV. The Danger of Form Without Power
- Beware of those who have a form of godliness but lack its power
- Love of money, self, and pleasure threaten the church
- Learn from Israel's backsliding and Revelation churches
Key Quotes
“Don't think of yourself as anything but a voice.” — Zac Poonen
“The last day's message to the church is repent, repent, repent.” — Zac Poonen
“We give more abundant honor to the member which lacks honor.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Regularly examine your life to turn away from sin and turn towards God with a repentant heart.
- Honor and serve all members of the church, especially those who seem weaker or less gifted.
- Seek to see Jesus more clearly daily and strive to become more like Him in humility and love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Zac Poonen mean by being 'a voice'?
He refers to John the Baptist as an example, emphasizing the role of calling people to repentance without seeking personal glory.
Why is repentance so central in this sermon?
Repentance is the key preparation for Christ's return and involves turning away from sin towards God, not just moral reform.
How should the church view its weaker members?
Weaker or less gifted members are essential and should be honored abundantly to maintain unity and reflect the true body of Christ.
What is the greatest danger facing the church according to the sermon?
The danger is people who maintain a form of godliness but lack its power, focusing on self and pleasure rather than God.
What is the ultimate goal for believers in this sermon?
To become more like Jesus Christ, seeing Him clearly and growing in humility and love.