Receiving All of God's Children
We should wholeheartedly welcome and receive all whom God Himself has received, without compromising truth or demanding uniformity.
Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of embracing all believers as brothers and sisters in Christ, mirroring God's acceptance of His children. He warns against compromising truth for fellowship or demanding complete uniformity before extending fellowship. While unity in God's work is crucial, Zac highlights the distinction between working together and having fellowship, encouraging believers to find a local church for spiritual growth and commitment.
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We must have as many brothers and sisters as God has children.
We should wholeheartedly welcome and receive all whom God Himself has received (Rom. 14:1; 15:7). If Jesus is not ashamed to call someone His brother, we shouldn't be ashamed either (Heb. 2:11).
There are two extremes to which believers can go, in this matter of fellowship. One is to compromise truth itself in order to maintain fellowship. The other is to demand uniformity in all matters before fellowship is offered. If you are wise, you'll steer clear of both these extremes.
It's obvious that we can't work together with those who are not agreed as to how God's work is to be done. But we don't have to demand that someone believes exactly as we do, down to the last little detail, before we have fellowship with him. There is a difference between working together with someone and having fellowship with him.
However, you must look for a church in your locality, that can be a spiritual home for you, and to which you can be committed.
Sermon Outline
- Welcoming All of God's Children
- Avoiding Extremes in Fellowship
- Working Together vs. Fellowship
- Finding a Spiritual Home
- Look for a church in your locality that can be a spiritual home
- Be committed to that church
Key Quotes
“We must have as many brothers and sisters as God has children.” — Zac Poonen
“If Jesus is not ashamed to call someone His brother, we shouldn't be ashamed either.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Be open to welcoming and including others in your life and community.
- Look for a church or spiritual community where you can find a sense of belonging and commitment.
- Strive to maintain a balance between truth and relationship in your interactions with others.