Embracing the Gospel of the Kingdom Today
Summary
Good morning, church. It's a joy to gather for our 22nd Church Renewal weekend, a time when we witness the Holy Spirit's powerful work among us. This weekend, we have delegates from seven countries, and it's a testament to the global reach and impact of our ministry. I want to express my gratitude to all the volunteers and participants who have made this event possible. Your dedication is a reflection of the renewed hearts God is cultivating in our community.
Reflecting on the growth of our mentoring program, it's clear that God's hand is at work. From mentoring 600 pastors five years ago to over 3,000 today, this fivefold increase is a "but God" moment, underscoring the divine vision that extends far beyond our current achievements. The urgency of our mission is profound, especially in regions facing persecution, where discipleship materials are crucial for sustaining faith when traditional church gatherings are not possible.
Today, I want to delve into the message Jesus preached—the gospel of the kingdom. Jesus' ministry was centered on the kingdom of God, a theme that permeates the Gospels and Acts. The kingdom of God is not just a future hope but a present reality that Jesus inaugurated. It is a kingdom characterized by justice, peace, and the righteous reign of Christ. The Old Testament lays the foundation for understanding this kingdom, with promises made to Abraham and David about a lineage of kings culminating in Jesus, the righteous branch.
The kingdom of God was offered to Israel, but due to persistent unbelief and unrighteousness, it was postponed. However, the promise remains that Jesus will return to establish His kingdom on earth, a kingdom where justice prevails, and nations live in peace. This is the gospel of the kingdom we are called to preach—a message of hope and transformation that transcends the present struggles and points to a future where Christ reigns supreme.
As we anticipate this coming kingdom, we must align our lives with its values, living as true sons and daughters of Abraham through faith and repentance. The call to be born again is not just an invitation to personal salvation but an entry into the kingdom life that Jesus preached. Let us fix our eyes on this hope and share it with the world, for it is the good news that Jesus proclaimed.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Urgency of Discipleship: In regions facing persecution, the need for discipleship materials is critical. These resources enable believers to sustain their faith when traditional church gatherings are not possible, highlighting the urgency of our mission to equip the global church. [34:07]
2. The Gospel of the Kingdom: Jesus' message centered on the kingdom of God, a present reality and future hope characterized by justice, peace, and righteousness. Understanding this kingdom requires a return to the Old Testament promises made to Abraham and David. [44:01]
3. The Promise of a Righteous King: Despite Israel's rejection, God promised a righteous king through the line of David. This king, Jesus, will establish a kingdom that cannot be lost, offering hope in the midst of darkness. [59:05]
4. The Call to Repentance: Entry into the kingdom requires repentance and faith, becoming spiritual descendants of Abraham. This call to be born again is not just personal salvation but an invitation to live the kingdom life Jesus preached. [01:04:22]
5. The Hope of a Coming Kingdom: The future kingdom of God promises justice, peace, and restoration. As believers, we are called to fix our eyes on this hope, sharing the good news of the kingdom with the world. [01:31:02]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [34:07] - Global Impact and Gratitude
- [34:57] - Church Renewal Staff Introduction
- [41:05] - The Urgency of Discipleship
- [42:28] - Prayer for the Pastor
- [44:01] - The Gospel of the Kingdom
- [45:35] - Understanding the Kingdom
- [46:43] - The Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants
- [47:47] - The Prophecy of Judah
- [49:01] - The Kingdom's Rejection and Hope
- [50:31] - Israel's Role as a Kingdom of Priests
- [52:03] - The Cycle of Failure and Exile
- [54:47] - The Departure of God's Glory
- [55:56] - The Promise of a Righteous King
- [59:05] - Jesus' Offer and Rejection
- [01:04:22] - The Call to Repentance
- [01:31:02] - The Hope of a Coming Kingdom
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Matthew 4:23 - "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."
2. Acts 1:3 - "After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God."
3. Jeremiah 23:5-6 - "The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The Lord Our Righteous Savior."
Observation Questions:
1. What was the central theme of Jesus' preaching according to the sermon? ([44:01])
2. How did the sermon describe the growth of the mentoring program over the past five years? ([34:07])
3. What role does the Old Testament play in understanding the kingdom of God as discussed in the sermon? ([45:35])
4. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the "righteous branch" mentioned in Jeremiah? ([59:05])
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of the kingdom of God as a present reality and future hope challenge or affirm your understanding of Jesus' message? ([44:01])
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the kingdom of God is characterized by justice, peace, and righteousness? ([45:35])
3. How does the sermon explain the postponement of the kingdom of God due to Israel's unbelief and unrighteousness? ([01:04:22])
4. What implications does the promise of a righteous king have for believers today, according to the sermon? ([59:05])
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on the urgency of discipleship in regions facing persecution. How can you contribute to supporting believers in these areas? ([41:05])
2. The sermon emphasizes aligning our lives with the values of the kingdom of God. What specific changes can you make in your daily life to reflect these values? ([01:04:22])
3. Consider the call to repentance and being born again as an entry into the kingdom life. How does this challenge your current understanding of personal salvation? ([01:04:22])
4. The sermon speaks of a future kingdom characterized by justice and peace. How can you actively share this hope with those around you? ([01:31:02])
5. How does the promise of a coming kingdom influence your perspective on current global issues and personal struggles? ([01:31:02])
6. Identify one area in your life where you can demonstrate the justice and righteousness of the kingdom of God. What steps will you take this week to act on this? ([01:13:55])
7. The sermon highlights the importance of being spiritual descendants of Abraham through faith. How can you deepen your faith and commitment to living as a true child of God? ([01:04:22])
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: The Urgency of Equipping Believers in Persecuted Regions
In regions where persecution is prevalent, the need for discipleship materials becomes critical. These resources are essential for believers to sustain their faith when traditional church gatherings are not possible. The mission to equip the global church with these materials is urgent, as they provide spiritual nourishment and guidance in the absence of communal worship. This urgency is a call to action for all believers to support and participate in the dissemination of these vital resources, ensuring that faith can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. [34:07]
"Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body." (Hebrews 13:3, ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to the support of persecuted believers today, whether through prayer, financial support, or raising awareness?
Day 2: The Present Reality and Future Hope of God's Kingdom
The kingdom of God, as preached by Jesus, is both a present reality and a future hope. It is characterized by justice, peace, and righteousness, and is rooted in the promises made to Abraham and David. This kingdom is not merely a distant future event but a reality that Jesus inaugurated, inviting believers to live according to its values now. Understanding this kingdom requires a return to the Old Testament, where the foundation of these promises is laid, and recognizing that Jesus is the fulfillment of these promises. [44:01]
"And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever." (Daniel 2:44, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you align your daily life with the values of God's kingdom, making it a present reality in your actions and decisions?
Day 3: The Assurance of a Righteous King
Despite Israel's rejection, God promised a righteous king through the line of David. This king, Jesus, will establish a kingdom that cannot be lost, offering hope in the midst of darkness. The promise of a righteous king is a beacon of hope for believers, assuring them that justice and peace will ultimately prevail. This assurance calls believers to trust in God's plan and to live in anticipation of the fulfillment of His promises, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties. [59:05]
"Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land." (Jeremiah 23:5, ESV)
Reflection: How does the promise of Jesus as the righteous king influence your perspective on current global or personal challenges?
Day 4: The Call to Repentance and Kingdom Living
Entry into the kingdom of God requires repentance and faith, becoming spiritual descendants of Abraham. This call to be born again is not just about personal salvation but an invitation to live the kingdom life that Jesus preached. It involves a transformation of heart and mind, aligning one's life with the values and principles of God's kingdom. This call challenges believers to examine their lives, repent of unrighteousness, and embrace the transformative power of the gospel. [01:04:22]
"Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus." (Acts 3:19-20, ESV)
Reflection: What specific areas of your life need repentance and alignment with the values of God's kingdom today?
Day 5: The Hope of a Coming Kingdom
The future kingdom of God promises justice, peace, and restoration. As believers, we are called to fix our eyes on this hope, sharing the good news of the kingdom with the world. This hope is not just a distant dream but a reality that shapes our present actions and attitudes. It encourages believers to live with purpose and urgency, knowing that their efforts contribute to the unfolding of God's kingdom on earth. This hope is a source of strength and motivation, inspiring believers to persevere in faith and witness. [01:31:02]
"For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness." (Isaiah 65:17-18, ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively participate in sharing the hope of God's coming kingdom with those around you today?
Quotes
Here are the selected quotes with timestamps:
"And the word that I've been getting is that it was the most amazing set free ever. Another whole level. And just phenomenal. And the Holy Spirit is really at work. And last week we talked a little bit about some of the things he's done. And some of the things that he's doing." [00:32:53] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"God also promised Abraham that kings would come through his line. In Genesis 17, 6, it says, I will make you exceedingly fruitful. I will make nations of you and... Now help me, speak back to me. And what? Kings will descend from you. That's already in the Abrahamic Covenant." [00:47:12] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"The only way back was through the door of repentance, which is precisely why John linked the two when he preached. He said, repent for the kingdom of God is at hand. That's why." [01:04:45] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"That's why Jesus said, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. This was the offer. Had they repented and trusted in Christ, they would have become members of the kingdom. And Jesus would have set up his kingdom right then and there. But because they rejected Jesus and his message of repentance, Jesus denounced their cities and declared the postponement of the kingdom." [01:06:04] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"The coming kingdom will be a kingdom of justice, and it will correct all of those ills. Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, and whom my soul delights. I've put my spirit on him, and he will bring, what? Justice to the nations." [01:13:35] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"The world will be at peace at last. No more wars or genocides. Micah says, he will judge between many peoples and settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning. Hooks." [01:14:49] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"That's the gospel of the kingdom that we're supposed to preach. Our hope isn't here. Our hope is in a coming kingdom. That's what Jesus preached." [01:27:23] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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