### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we are celebrating 25 years of full-time ministry. Reflecting on this journey, it's incredible to see how God has guided us from a small beach town in New Zealand to sharing the gospel across the globe. This morning, I want to encourage you with the reality of the kingdom of God within us. This concept has been a cornerstone of our ministry and personal walk with Jesus.
Let's turn to Luke 17:20-21, where Jesus tells the Pharisees that the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed externally but is within us. This kingdom is not made of bricks and mortar; it transcends time, space, and matter. It is a spiritual reality that sustains us and empowers us to live out God's will on earth.
I remember my first mission trip to China at age 17. It was a dark and gloomy boat trip, but the joy and peace I saw in the persecuted Chinese Christians were overwhelming. This was my first encounter with the concept of a kingdom within. Later, in India, I struggled with the cultural differences and felt frustrated and judgmental. But the Holy Spirit reminded me that I was not living sustained by His kingdom. This revelation changed everything for me. I began to experience joy and peace, even in challenging circumstances.
Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:19-21 not to lay up treasures on earth but to seek first the kingdom of God. This kingdom is within us, and everything we need flows from that space. I have lived my whole life following Jesus, and He has always been real to me. This kingdom within has its own atmosphere of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. It enables us to thrive even in a fallen world.
In Romans 14:16-17, we learn that the kingdom of God is not about eating and drinking but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. This was a game-changer for me, especially during my time in India. As I surrendered to the Holy Spirit, I experienced a fountain of love and joy that transformed my ministry. This kingdom within us is a powerful force that enables us to fulfill our God-given assignments.
Jesus foretold of a time when the kingdom would live inside all who receive Him as Lord and Savior. This was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost when the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit. We are now carriers of this kingdom, and it is our responsibility to live sustained by it. This kingdom has its own ecosystem, providing everything we need to accomplish God's will.
As we celebrate 25 years of ministry, I want to encourage you to seek first the kingdom of God. There are many things we can seek in life, but only the kingdom will lead to true freedom and fulfillment. The Spirit of God is asking us today, will you seek first His kingdom? If you have been seeking other things, now is the time to make a stand and commit to seeking His kingdom above all else.
Let's pray together and ask God to help us live sustained by His kingdom. As we surrender our lives to Him, He will provide everything we need. Let's live in the kingdom, be sustained by the kingdom, and love Jesus with a passion.
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Key Takeaways
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2. Joy and Peace Amidst Challenges: The kingdom of God within us brings an atmosphere of righteousness, peace, and joy, even in the most challenging circumstances. This was evident during my time in India, where the cultural differences initially caused frustration. However, surrendering to the Holy Spirit brought a transformative joy and love for the people and culture.
3. Seek First the Kingdom: Jesus instructs us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all other needs will be met. This principle is crucial for living a life free from worry and fear. By prioritizing God's kingdom, we align ourselves with His will and experience His provision and peace.
4. Empowered by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the driving force of the kingdom within us. On the day of Pentecost, the disciples were filled with the Spirit, marking the fulfillment of Jesus' promise. As carriers of this kingdom, we are empowered to fulfill our God-given assignments and bring His light to the world.
5. Living Sustained by the Kingdom: The kingdom of God provides an ecosystem that sustains us in a fallen world. This kingdom is not about material wealth but about spiritual richness. By living sustained by this kingdom, we can thrive and bear fruit that remains, fulfilling God's purpose for our lives.
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