Embracing God's Kingdom: Growth, Transformation, and Service

Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored the profound nature of God's kingdom and our role within it. Reflecting on our experiences as missionaries and the recent mission trip to Guatemala, we emphasized the importance of flexibility and reliance on God. We delved into Luke 13, where Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed and leaven, illustrating how God's kingdom grows both outwardly and inwardly. The mustard seed, though small, grows into a large tree that provides shelter and rest, symbolizing the expansive and inclusive nature of God's kingdom. Similarly, the leaven works invisibly within the dough, representing the transformative power of God's grace and mercy in our lives.

We discussed how God's kingdom has been unfolding since the beginning of time, despite humanity's failures and sin. God's sovereignty ensures that His plan continues unabated. The kingdom of God is not about our comfort or preferences but about joining God in His redemptive work. We are called to be flexible, to let go of our plans, and to embrace God's mission, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones.

The kingdom of God is also about personal transformation. As we allow God's grace to work within us, we experience inward growth that manifests in outward actions. This transformation leads to a life characterized by the fruit of the Spirit, making us more like Christ. Our involvement in God's kingdom should be natural and unforced, driven by a genuine desire to see His name exalted.

Finally, we were reminded that the kingdom of God is not of this world. It is a spiritual reality that transcends political and social structures. Our focus should be on spiritual transformation and the redemption of mankind, rather than earthly power and control. By humbling ourselves and serving others, we truly become great in God's kingdom.

### Key Takeaways

1. Flexibility in God's Mission: Embracing flexibility is crucial in God's work. Our plans often fall apart, but God's sovereignty ensures His mission continues. We must be willing to let go of our control and join God where He is working, trusting that His plans are greater than ours. [20:50]

2. The Expansive Nature of God's Kingdom: The mustard seed parable teaches us that God's kingdom starts small but grows into something vast and inclusive. It provides shelter and rest for all who seek it, symbolizing the expansive and welcoming nature of God's love and grace. [33:47]

3. Inward Transformation Through God's Grace: The leaven parable illustrates how God's kingdom works inwardly and through us, transforming our lives from within. This invisible work of grace leads to visible changes, making us more like Christ and producing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. [50:28]

4. The Spiritual Reality of God's Kingdom: God's kingdom is not of this world; it is a spiritual reality that transcends earthly power and control. Our focus should be on spiritual transformation and the redemption of mankind, rather than seeking political or social dominance. [01:09:11]

5. Humility and Service in God's Kingdom: True greatness in God's kingdom comes from humbling ourselves and serving others. By following Jesus' example of humility and service, we align ourselves with God's will and become effective participants in His redemptive work. [01:12:04]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[20:50] - Embracing Flexibility
[21:19] - Mission Trip to Guatemala
[29:52] - Recognizing God's Presence
[33:47] - The Mustard Seed Parable
[34:55] - God's Sovereignty and Plan
[37:07] - God's Unfailing Grace
[39:06] - The Kingdom's Inclusivity
[41:44] - The Church's Responsibility
[45:19] - Willingness to Serve Anywhere
[47:00] - God's Universal Love
[50:28] - The Leaven Parable
[52:20] - Beware the Leaven of Sin
[53:54] - Inward Transformation
[56:31] - Visible Fruits of the Spirit
[57:37] - Natural Outward Fruit
[59:22] - Kingdom Growth
[01:00:11] - Tithing and the Kingdom
[01:01:18] - The Kingdom's Mission
[01:02:45] - Redemption Through Jesus
[01:04:42] - Seek First the Kingdom
[01:05:57] - The Kingdom's Spiritual Reality
[01:09:11] - Humility and Service
[01:12:04] - Tim Keller's Insight
[01:13:56] - Becoming a Servant
[01:14:35] - Submission to God
[01:17:06] - Final Song and Prayer
[01:19:05] - Announcements and Dismissal

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
- Luke 13:18-21
- Ezekiel 17:23-24
- Matthew 6:33

### Observation Questions
1. In Luke 13:18-21, what two items does Jesus use to describe the kingdom of God, and what do they symbolize?
2. According to the sermon, how does the mustard seed parable illustrate the expansive nature of God's kingdom? [33:47]
3. What does the leaven represent in the parable, and how does it work within the dough? [50:28]
4. How does Ezekiel 17:23-24 relate to the parable of the mustard seed in Luke 13? [40:19]

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is flexibility important in God's mission, and how does it relate to the concept of God's sovereignty? [20:50]
2. How does the inward transformation through God's grace manifest in outward actions, according to the sermon? [53:54]
3. What does it mean that the kingdom of God is a spiritual reality that transcends political and social structures? [01:09:11]
4. How does humility and service align with the values of God's kingdom as described in the sermon? [01:12:04]

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when your plans fell apart. How did you see God's sovereignty at work in that situation, and how can you embrace flexibility in your current circumstances? [20:50]
2. The mustard seed grows into a large tree that provides shelter and rest. How can you create a welcoming and inclusive environment in your community or church? [33:47]
3. Think of an area in your life where you need inward transformation. What steps can you take to allow God's grace to work within you and produce visible changes? [50:28]
4. How can you shift your focus from earthly power and control to spiritual transformation and the redemption of mankind in your daily life? [01:09:11]
5. Identify a specific way you can humble yourself and serve others this week. How does this align with Jesus' example of humility and service? [01:12:04]
6. Consider the distractions in your life that prevent you from seeking God's kingdom first. What practical steps can you take to prioritize His kingdom and righteousness? [01:05:19]
7. Reflect on the concept of God's kingdom being inclusive of all nations and backgrounds. How can you actively participate in sharing God's love and grace with people from diverse backgrounds? [37:54]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Flexibility in God's Mission
God's mission often requires us to be flexible and adaptable. Our plans may fall apart, but God's sovereignty ensures that His mission continues. We must be willing to let go of our control and join God where He is working, trusting that His plans are greater than ours. This means being open to changes and unexpected turns in our journey, knowing that God is guiding us every step of the way. Flexibility in God's mission is not about abandoning our goals but aligning them with God's greater purpose. By doing so, we become effective instruments in His hands, ready to serve wherever He leads us. [20:50]

Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Reflection: Think of a recent situation where your plans did not go as expected. How can you see God's hand at work in that situation, and how can you embrace flexibility in your current circumstances?

Day 2: The Expansive Nature of God's Kingdom
The parable of the mustard seed teaches us that God's kingdom starts small but grows into something vast and inclusive. It provides shelter and rest for all who seek it, symbolizing the expansive and welcoming nature of God's love and grace. This growth is not just numerical but also in the depth of relationships and the impact on communities. God's kingdom is a place where everyone can find a home, regardless of their background or past. It is a testament to the power of God's love to transform and include all who come to Him. [33:47]

Ezekiel 17:23 (ESV): "On the mountain height of Israel will I plant it, that it may bear branches and produce fruit and become a noble cedar. And under it will dwell every kind of bird; in the shade of its branches birds of every sort will nest."

Reflection: Consider how you can contribute to the growth of God's kingdom in your community. What small act of kindness or service can you do today to make someone feel included and loved?

Day 3: Inward Transformation Through God's Grace
The parable of the leaven illustrates how God's kingdom works inwardly and through us, transforming our lives from within. This invisible work of grace leads to visible changes, making us more like Christ and producing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. As we allow God's grace to permeate our hearts, we experience a transformation that affects our thoughts, actions, and relationships. This inward change is a continuous process that requires our cooperation with the Holy Spirit, leading to a life that reflects Christ's character. [50:28]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: Reflect on an area of your life where you need God's transformative grace. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to work in that area and bring about change?

Day 4: The Spiritual Reality of God's Kingdom
God's kingdom is not of this world; it is a spiritual reality that transcends earthly power and control. Our focus should be on spiritual transformation and the redemption of mankind, rather than seeking political or social dominance. This means prioritizing our spiritual growth and the spread of the gospel over worldly ambitions. The kingdom of God calls us to live by different values, where humility, love, and service are paramount. By keeping our eyes on the eternal, we align ourselves with God's purposes and become agents of His kingdom on earth. [01:09:11]

John 18:36 (ESV): "Jesus answered, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.'"

Reflection: In what ways are you tempted to seek earthly power or control? How can you shift your focus to the spiritual reality of God's kingdom and prioritize your spiritual growth?

Day 5: Humility and Service in God's Kingdom
True greatness in God's kingdom comes from humbling ourselves and serving others. By following Jesus' example of humility and service, we align ourselves with God's will and become effective participants in His redemptive work. This means putting others' needs before our own and seeking ways to serve those around us. Humility is not about thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. It is about recognizing our dependence on God and our role as His servants. Through humble service, we reflect Christ's love and bring glory to God. [01:12:04]

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Reflection: Identify someone in your life who could use your help or encouragement. How can you serve them today in a way that reflects Christ's humility and love?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "We come to church on Sunday morning with a certain expectation in our hearts and on our minds. And my prayer. Is it? Is it that we recognize when God shows up? God showed up. Thank you, Jonathan. Appreciate that. We never know how, what he's going to do in our lives. And he wants to, and this actually ties in well with what I'm talking about this morning as we look in Luke chapter 13, if you have your Bibles, go and look at, look in Luke chapter 13, as we look at this idea of the kingdom and living out the kingdom right here and right now." [29:52] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "God is more interested in the redemption of mankind than He is in my comfortability, in my preferences, in anything I bring to life. We mentioned it here many times. It's all about Him. It's not about me. It's about Him. That's why I can say, if it means playing basketball, I'll play basketball. I'd rather not, but I will. If it means listening and participating in a certain kind of music, I will do it. If it means eating certain foods, I mean, my despisement of Dr. Pepper goes back to when I was a youth pastor." [32:03] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Whatever it takes to get the gospel out, to participate in the mission of God and His kingdom around the world is what we need to be about. Short of sin. Short of sin. Participating in sin, we need to be about whatever it takes. In Luke chapter 13, Jesus is talking about the mustard seed and the leaven, and as we conclude this series on the kingdom of God and the parables specifically that Jesus was teaching about these parables, I want to bring it to mind because they're all about the kingdom." [32:54] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The kingdom of God is bigger than we expect it to be, and it fills much more than we understand. Look at Luke chapter 13, verse 18 through 21, just four verses this morning. As Jesus is teaching, He says this in verse 18, He says, He said, therefore, what is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of a mustard seed that a man took and he sowed in his garden and it grew and became a tree and the birds of the air made nests in its branches." [33:47] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The kingdom of God. Why a mustard seed? Why leaven? See, God has been always about His kingdom since the very beginning of time. Since Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, even before they sinned in the garden, when He created Adam and Eve, it was about His mission, His plan, His kingdom, setting it up. Satan tried to mess it up. He convinced Eve to eat that fruit. She convinced her husband to join her, and then they got kicked out of the garden and life has been downhill from there for us." [34:55] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "See, God's kingdom is more about us joining Him where He's working and joining Him in the work that He's trying to accomplish. God is more interested in the redemption of mankind than He is in my comfortability, in my preferences, in anything I bring to life. We mentioned it here many times. It's all about Him. It's not about me. It's about Him. That's why I can say, if it means playing basketball, I'll play basketball. I'd rather not, but I will. If it means listening and participating in a certain kind of music, I will do it." [32:03] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The kingdom of God grows outward and upward like this huge tree. It starts small like this little mustard seed. But as it grows, it stretches and stretches and stretches into a mighty tree that everybody can find rest in. It's available for all. It's visible to all. No one is kept out. If you are seeking peace, you are seeking God, you are seeking to find forgiveness, whatever the people are seeking, God is there within the boughs of this tree, the kingdom of God rests, waiting, embracing all who come." [40:19] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The whole world was to find rest and redemption within the branches of God's kingdom, and Israel was there to share that with them, and now the church, we are here in this world to share with the world about God's redemption and how he desires all men to come to him. Israel failed in their lesson. Israel failed in their responsibility. When the Messiah came, they missed it. They missed their purpose, was to be at the crossroads of the world, sharing the love of God with the world." [42:49] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The church has the same responsibility that Israel had so long ago. God has placed us all around the world, not just at the crossroads of trade in the Middle East. He has placed the church strategically in every country, every nation of the world, so the church might share about the glory of God. Jonathan just came back from Guatemala, sharing with us about how God is moving, God is working in that community, in those cities. We have had our missionaries here come and speak, and we had David Nelms come and talk about why they are working through TTI all around the world, starting churches, and working with these pastors in different countries." [43:47] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The kingdom grows outward and upward. The kingdom grows inward and through. So what does the kingdom look like? See, this kingdom that we've been talking about for the past seven weeks, it began a long, long time ago. It goes back almost all the way to the beginning of the Old Testament. In Genesis chapter 14, Abraham offers a tithe of the spoils, the spoils of war to Melchizedek. Before the law was written, before the law was given to Moses, Abraham offered a tithe of all of his increase to the priest of God when the priest of God came to him." [01:00:11] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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