Who Are The False Prophets？
Zac Poonen teaches that true Christian living demands embracing the higher, narrow standards Jesus set in the Sermon on the Mount, warning believers to beware of false prophets who downplay these commands.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living by the high standards set by Jesus in Matthew 5, 6, and 7, which surpass even the Ten Commandments. It highlights the need for believers to take sin seriously, seek freedom from sin, and prioritize the fruit of the Spirit over the gifts of the Spirit. The message warns against false prophets who focus on outward displays rather than inner transformation, urging listeners to seek intimacy with God and live a life that truly reflects Christ.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Higher Standard of the New Covenant
- Jesus raises the moral standard above the Old Testament Ten Commandments
- The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) sets a narrow, holy way for the church
- Examples include anger, lust, truthfulness, love for enemies, and secret giving
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II. The Danger of False Prophets
- False prophets deny the seriousness of Jesus' commands
- They preach a lower standard that tolerates anger, lust, anxiety, and pride
- Their teaching leads the church away from holiness and God's true standard
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III. The Responsibility of Believers
- Believers must take Jesus' commands seriously and strive to obey them
- Preaching and living the narrow way is essential, even if unpopular
- God desires His people to be completely free from sin
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IV. Practical Application and Warnings
- Avoid boasting about prayer, fasting, or giving as Jesus commands secrecy
- Reject traditions that contradict God's word
- Commit to ongoing spiritual growth and holiness despite challenges
Key Quotes
“A false prophet is not the one who says Jesus Christ is not God. A false prophet is the one who says Jesus Christ is God... but it is not serious if you get angry, it is not serious if you lust with your eyes, it is not serious if you tell a few lies.” — Zac Poonen
“When you give money, don't get any honor, don't let anybody know that you gave.” — Zac Poonen
“God wants us all to be 100% free from sin. Because He is a loving father.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Strive to obey Jesus' higher standards in anger, lust, truthfulness, and love daily.
- Practice giving, praying, and fasting in secret to honor God's commands and avoid seeking human praise.
- Be discerning of teachings that lower God's standard and commit to preaching and living the narrow way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the false prophets according to Zac Poonen?
False prophets are those who acknowledge Jesus but deny the seriousness of His commands, promoting a lower standard of Christian living.
What is the 'narrow way' Jesus teaches?
The narrow way refers to the higher moral and spiritual standards Jesus set in the Sermon on the Mount that go beyond the Old Testament law.
Why does Zac emphasize secrecy in giving, praying, and fasting?
Because Jesus commands that these acts be done in secret to avoid seeking human praise and to honor God's standards.
How should Christians respond to the higher standards Jesus sets?
Christians should take these commands seriously, strive to obey them fully, and reject teachings that lower the standard.
Why does Zac say many churches fail in teaching these standards?
Many churches have adopted traditions that contradict Jesus' commands, and preachers often neglect to teach the narrow way.