Living Out the Kingdom: Commitments of a Transformative Community

Summary

The invitation is to become the right kind of Christian—one whose life is shaped by the way of Jesus and whose presence transforms the city. This means more than simply attending church or holding the door for someone; it’s about letting Jesus be king over every part of life, not just the private corners of the heart. The vision is for a community that reveals the kingdom of Jesus together, living out the gospel in tangible, everyday ways that draw others toward God.

Five commitments form the foundation of this community. First, revealing the kingdom of Jesus is not just about personal belief but about outwardly manifesting the love, justice, and goodness of God in the world. It’s a call to live differently, to let the fruit of our lives be seen in the transformation of those around us. Second, belonging to a microchurch is essential. These smaller communities are not just social groups but intentional gatherings around prayer, scripture, and mission. They are places where real growth happens—where difference, conflict, and diversity become the soil for spiritual maturity and deep relationships.

Third, gathering on Sundays is a rhythm modeled by Jesus himself. Despite the imperfections of religious institutions, Jesus regularly participated in communal worship and teaching. There is something formative about coming together, sharing stories, confessing, and taking communion that cannot be replicated alone. Fourth, serving both within the church and in the broader city is a non-negotiable part of following Jesus. Service is not reserved for a select few but is the calling of every believer, extending love and practical help to both the church family and the most vulnerable in the community.

Finally, generosity is a hallmark of the kingdom. Jesus spoke often and directly about money, knowing its power over our hearts. The call is to give sacrificially, not out of compulsion but as a response to God’s generosity toward us. Whether starting with a small step or moving toward radical giving, generosity shapes us into people who trust God and care for others.

This is not a call to perfection, but to wholehearted commitment. The journey will be messy, marked by conflict and failure, but also by deep joy, transformation, and belonging. The invitation is to step in, to be known, to be challenged, and to help shape a community that truly reveals the kingdom of Jesus together.

Key Takeaways

- Revealing the kingdom of Jesus requires more than private faith; it demands a public, holistic surrender that impacts every sphere of life. The fruit of this surrender is seen in the transformation of others, the questions of the curious, and the renewal of lives around us. It is not enough to admire the early church’s vision—we are called to embody it in our own context. [06:21]

- True spiritual growth happens in the context of committed, diverse community. Microchurches are not just convenient social circles but intentional spaces where difference, conflict, and vulnerability become opportunities for maturity. It is in these smaller gatherings that we are stretched, confronted, and ultimately shaped into the likeness of Jesus. [09:39]

- Regular participation in communal worship is a formative practice, not an optional add-on. Jesus modeled a rhythm of gathering with others, even in imperfect institutions, and the early church followed suit. There is a unique power in being present, sharing in the sacraments, and letting the voices and stories of others carry us in faith. [19:14]

- Service is the natural outflow of a life shaped by Jesus, extending both to the church family and the wider community. It is not about overextending a few, but about many doing a little, together. Serving the vulnerable and marginalized is not a special calling for some, but a gospel mandate for all who follow Jesus. [23:21]

- Generosity is a spiritual discipline that challenges the idols of our age and reorients our hearts toward God’s kingdom. Jesus’ teachings on money are radical, calling us to give not just out of abundance but out of trust and sacrifice. Starting somewhere—no matter how small—opens us to the joy and transformation that comes from living with open hands. [28:33]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:23] - The Mission: The Right Kind of Christian
[03:16] - Commitment 1: Reveal the Kingdom of Jesus
[04:55] - The Cost and Vision of Following Jesus
[06:21] - Commitment 2: Belong to a Microchurch
[07:32] - Why Microchurch? Theological Distinction
[09:39] - Growth Through Difference and Conflict
[11:12] - Practical Steps to Join or Lead a Microchurch
[13:36] - The Power of Community in Hard Seasons
[15:18] - Commitment 3: Gather on Sunday
[16:26] - Jesus and the Rhythm of Worship
[19:14] - The Formative Power of Gathering
[21:07] - Commitment 4: Serve
[22:24] - Serving One Another and the City
[23:21] - Extending Service Beyond the Church
[24:47] - Commitment 5: Be Generous
[25:56] - The Challenge and Joy of Generosity
[28:33] - Steps Toward Radical Generosity
[29:51] - The Vision for a Transformative Community
[32:36] - The Promise of Commitment
[34:50] - The Cost and Reward of Deep Community
[36:17] - Invitation to Commitment and Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Revealing the Kingdom of Jesus Together

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### Bible Reading

Acts 2:42-47 (ESV)
> And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Mark 10:44-45 (ESV)
> And whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Mark 12:41-44 (ESV)
> And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

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### Observation Questions

1. In Acts 2:42-47, what were some of the specific practices and rhythms that marked the early church community?
2. According to Mark 10:44-45, how did Jesus describe greatness in his kingdom?
3. In the story of the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44), what did Jesus notice about the way people gave, and what made the widow’s gift stand out?
4. The sermon described five commitments for the church community. What are they, and how are they different from just “showing up” to church? [[04:04]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The early church in Acts shared meals, possessions, and worshipped together. What does this suggest about the kind of relationships and priorities Jesus wants for his followers?
2. Jesus says the greatest among us must be a servant to all (Mark 10:44-45). How does this challenge common ideas about leadership and influence, both in the church and in our city?
3. The widow’s offering was small in amount but big in sacrifice. What does this teach about the heart behind generosity, and why do you think Jesus highlighted her gift? [[27:04]]
4. The sermon said that true spiritual growth happens in committed, diverse community, not just in private faith. Why might difference, conflict, and vulnerability be necessary for maturity? [[09:39]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenged us to let Jesus be king over every part of our lives, not just the private corners. Is there an area of your life that you tend to keep separate from your faith? What would it look like to surrender that area to Jesus this week? [[04:55]]
2. Belonging to a microchurch means committing to a group that isn’t always easy or comfortable. What is one step you could take to be more present, honest, or engaged in your microchurch or small group? [[12:25]]
3. Gathering on Sundays was described as a formative rhythm, not just a routine. How has regular worship with others shaped your faith? Is there a way you could make Sunday gatherings more meaningful for yourself or someone else? [[19:14]]
4. Serving is a calling for every believer, not just a few. Think about your week: where is one place (inside or outside the church) where you could serve someone in a practical way? What’s holding you back? [[23:21]]
5. Generosity is about trust and sacrifice, not just giving when it’s easy. What is one small, concrete step you could take toward greater generosity this month—whether with money, time, or resources? [[28:33]]
6. The sermon said, “This is not a call to perfection, but to wholehearted commitment.” What does wholehearted commitment look like for you right now? Is there a next step you sense God inviting you to take? [[32:36]]
7. The vision is for a community that reveals the kingdom of Jesus together. Who in your life might be drawn to God if they saw this kind of community in action? How could you invite them in or share your story with them? [[29:51]]

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Close in prayer, asking God to help your group live out these commitments and reveal the kingdom of Jesus together in real, everyday ways.

Devotional

Day 1: Reveal the Kingdom of Jesus Together
The call to reveal the kingdom of Jesus is not just about personal belief or private faith, but about living in such a way that the goodness and reign of Jesus are made visible to those around us. This means letting Jesus be king over every part of our lives, not just our hearts, and allowing the transformation He brings to overflow into our relationships, workplaces, and neighborhoods. When we live this way, our lives become marked by curiosity from others, renewed hearts, and a community that draws people closer to God. The fruit of this commitment is seen in lives changed, questions asked, and a city transformed by the presence of Jesus through His people. [06:21]

Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you sense Jesus inviting you to let Him be king, not just in word but in action, so that others might see His kingdom through you this week?


Day 2: Commit to Deep Community in Microchurch
True spiritual growth happens in the context of real, sometimes messy, Christian community. Microchurches are intentionally designed to be places where prayer, scripture, and mission are central, and where people of different backgrounds and perspectives come together to follow Jesus. It is in these smaller, committed communities that we are challenged, stretched, and shaped—where we learn patience, forgiveness, and love in the face of difference and even conflict. Showing up regularly, participating actively, and allowing others to know and shape us is essential for becoming more like Jesus. [12:25]

Acts 2:42-47 (ESV)
"And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved."

Reflection: Who in your microchurch or Christian community do you find it hardest to connect with, and how might God be inviting you to grow in love or patience toward them this week?


Day 3: Prioritize Gathering for Worship
Gathering together as the church, both in homes and on Sundays, is a rhythm that Jesus Himself modeled and that the early church continued. Despite the imperfections and even dysfunctions of religious institutions, Jesus regularly participated in synagogue and temple life, teaching, praying, and engaging with others. There is something formative about coming together with the larger family of God—hearing stories, worshiping, confessing, and taking communion—that shapes us into a sent people. Prioritizing this rhythm, even amidst busy lives, reminds us that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. [19:14]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take to make gathering with your church family a more consistent and meaningful part of your weekly rhythm?


Day 4: Serve One Another and the City
Service is at the heart of Jesus’ teaching and the life of the early church. Jesus Himself came not to be served but to serve, and He calls His followers to do the same—both within the church and out in the broader community. Serving is not about a few people doing everything, but about everyone pitching in, using their gifts, and caring for one another as family. It also means extending love and practical help to the most vulnerable in our city, embodying the gospel in tangible ways. Regular rhythms of service, both inside and outside the church, shape our hearts and witness to the world. [23:21]

Mark 10:44-45 (ESV)
"And whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Reflection: Where is God prompting you to step out and serve—either within your church family or in your city—in a way that stretches you beyond your comfort zone this month?


Day 5: Practice Radical Generosity
Generosity is a defining mark of the kingdom of Jesus, challenging us to reject the idol of money and embrace a new economy of trust and open-handedness. Jesus commended the widow who gave all she had, and the early church was known for selling possessions to meet needs. Giving is not just about meeting a percentage, but about letting God shape our hearts to be more like His—willing to give sacrificially and joyfully. Whether starting small or being called to give more, every act of generosity is a step toward freedom from self and a witness to the world of God’s abundant love. [28:33]

Mark 12:41-44 (ESV)
"And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, 'Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.'"

Reflection: What is one specific way you can practice generosity this week—whether with your finances, time, or resources—that feels like a real act of trust in God?

Quotes

The fruit of your life should be marked by people drawing close to Jesus, drawing close to the kingdom. It should be marked by questions from the curious and the doubting. It should be marked by renovated and renewed lives. It should be marked by people noticing that you live a little differently and leaning in and wanting to learn more. This is what it means to reveal the kingdom of Jesus. [00:05:58] (29 seconds)  #FruitOfKingdomLife Edit Clip

Maturity is born from difference and diversity. And dare I say, church conflict. Jesus knew this when he gathered a very diverse group of people together, called them disciples, and instructed them to work together for his name. [00:10:18] (21 seconds)  #MaturityInDiversity Edit Clip

You can casually attend church. You can even come maybe every Sunday. And you might be slowly and incrementally changed and formed into the person of Jesus. But here's what will not happen. You will not be challenged. You will not be stretched. You will not be confronted by your weaknesses. The only way that happens is if you commit to intimate Christian community, or what we call microchurch. [00:10:56] (29 seconds)  #ChallengeOfIntimacy Edit Clip

``You cannot be shaped by other people. You cannot grow in the fruits of the spirit and spiritual maturity by coming to church 12 to 20 times a year. And we know this because we have jobs and skills and things that we work really hard on all the time to get better at them, right? But sometimes that doesn't always translate to the way we view our spiritual lives. Like you can't become a concert pianist if you only practice 12 times a year. You can't become a master rock climber if you only climb 12 times a year. You cannot be a good parent if you rarely see your kid. You cannot be a good boss if you talk to your employees one to two times a month. You cannot be shaped by others if you do not show up. It is that simple. [00:12:15] (43 seconds)  #ShowUpToGrow Edit Clip

Service should always, always, always extend much farther and much wider than the four walls of this building to the people of this neighborhood and to the community of Kansas City. And so at Midtown, we want to shift from a praxis that says only certain people or ministries are called to serve and love the poor, oppressed, and marginalized to a praxis that says all are called to do this. It's a gospel mandate. Jesus doesn't give us any ways out of this. Basically, this is like a non -negotiable for him. [00:23:27] (35 seconds)  #ServeBeyondWalls Edit Clip

This is why we pray that generosity prayer every single week as we work to shape our hearts and minds towards the person of Jesus and not the idol of money, as we work to be more like the poor widow in this story than the rich people, as we work to change our city by demonstrating a different kind of economy, a Jesus economy that gives away freely to all who have a need. [00:28:04] (28 seconds)  #GenerosityTransforms Edit Clip

And so my invitation today is that you would follow Jesus' call to live a radically generous life by starting somewhere. If you've never given anything before, just consider giving one thing today. Say, I'm going to take this money that I hold so dear, that I worked so hard for. I'm going to give just a little bit of it today. Maybe you've given before, but you don't regularly give. Give 1%. Start somewhere. Maybe you've been giving 10 % for a really long time and you feel like Jesus is calling you to give above and beyond. Do it. Start with something.and continue working up to more significant means of generosity. And I promise you, you are going to be blown away by the way in which this type of generosity affects your heart and your life. [00:28:33] (52 seconds)  #RadicalCommunity Edit Clip

I yearn to be the kind of community that isn't attractional, but that's just attractive. That people want to be around. That reveals Jesus' kingdom Monday through Saturday through our work, talent, recreation, and play that opens up our homes to people who look, act, and think differently than us. That crosses political bounds, that crosses socioeconomic boundaries, that crosses racial boundaries, and says, Hey, let's do life together. Let's become a family. I want a community that's pliable enough to allow others to shape us and form us towards the person of Jesus.Jesus Christ, even when we have conflict and disagree. [00:30:23] (43 seconds)  #GenerousLiving Edit Clip

I cannot promise you that this community will be perfect. In fact, I actually could probably promise you the opposite. We're a messy bunch of people. I'm going to fail you. Alex is going to fail you. One of our leadership team members is going to fail you. Your microchurch leader is going to fail you. You're going to experience conflict with people in this community. It's going to feel real uncomfy. You're not going to like everybody. And sometimes you're just not going to have the energy to show up. But here's what I can promise you. If you commit to revealing Jesus' kingdom, belonging to a microchurch, gathering together on Sundays, serving one another in the Kansas City community, and to generosity, we...will shape one another more towards the person of Jesus Christ every day. Our increase will be the right kind of increase that changes everything. [00:31:59] (69 seconds)  #DeepCommitmentNeeded Edit Clip