Proving God's Perfect Will
Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of self-examination through twelve questions to discern God's perfect will in our lives.
Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of discerning God's perfect will by encouraging believers to ask themselves twelve reflective questions. These questions guide individuals to evaluate their actions against biblical teachings, personal conscience, and the glory of God. By considering the impact of their choices on their spiritual lives and the lives of others, believers can gain clarity on God's will. Poonen highlights the necessity of seeking wisdom from mature Christians and ensuring that one's actions align with a clear conscience and spiritual edification. Ultimately, this process leads to a deeper understanding of living in accordance with God's desires.
Text
When faced with an issue concerning which we are unsure as to whether it is God's will or not, it is good for us to ask ourselves twelve questions. As we answer these questions honestly, it will become increasingly clear to us what the will of God is.
(1) Is it contrary to any of the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, or to the spirit of the New Testament, as far as I know? (2 Tim.3:16,17).
(2) Is it something I can do with a clear conscience? (1 Jn.3:21).
(3) Is it something I can do for the glory of God? (1 Cor.10:31).
(4) Is it something I can do in fellowship with Jesus? (Col.3:17).
(5) Can I ask God to bless me as I do it? (2 Cor.9:8).
(6) Will my doing it blunt my spiritual edge in any way? (2 Tim.2:15).
(7) Will it be spiritually profitable and edifying, to the best of my knowledge? (1 Cor.6:12; 10:23).
(8) Would I be happy if I were found doing it at the moment when Jesus returns to earth? (1 Jn.2:28).
(9) What do wiser and more mature brothers think about it? (Prov.11:14; 15:22; 24:6)
(10) Will my doing it bring dishonour to God's Name or ruin my testimony, if others know about it? Rom.2:24; 2 Cor.8:21)
(11) Will my doing it cause others to stumble, if they know about it? (Rom.14:13; 1 Cor.8:9).
(12) Do I feel free in my spirit to do it? (1 Jn.2:27).
(Look up the Scripture references and meditate on them).
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Introduction to discerning God's will
- Importance of self-reflection
- Overview of the twelve questions
-
II
- Question 1: Teachings of Jesus and apostles
- Question 2: Clear conscience
- Question 3: Glory of God
-
III
- Question 4: Fellowship with Jesus
- Question 5: Asking for God's blessing
- Question 6: Spiritual edge
-
IV
- Question 7: Spiritual profitability
- Question 8: Happiness at Christ's return
- Question 9: Wisdom of mature brothers
-
V
- Question 10: Honoring God's name
- Question 11: Causing others to stumble
- Question 12: Freedom in spirit
Key Quotes
“Is it contrary to any of the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, or to the spirit of the New Testament, as far as I know?” — Zac Poonen
“Will my doing it blunt my spiritual edge in any way?” — Zac Poonen
“Do I feel free in my spirit to do it?” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Regularly reflect on your actions to ensure they align with God's teachings.
- Seek counsel from mature believers when faced with difficult decisions.
- Cultivate a clear conscience and spiritual freedom in your daily choices.