Revealing the Kingdom: Light, Obedience, and Transformation
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the parable of the lamp from Mark 4:21-25, exploring its profound implications for our lives. Jesus uses the analogy of a lamp to illustrate the mission of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God. Initially, Jesus spoke of the light as the message of Him being the Messiah, but in this context, He refers to the mission of the Messiah. The light is meant to be placed on a lampstand, not hidden, symbolizing that the truth of God's Kingdom is to be revealed, not concealed.
We discussed how the Kingdom of God is an upside-down kingdom, challenging our preconceived notions and requiring us to adopt a new way of thinking. Jesus emphasized the importance of listening and obeying God's word, highlighting that true hearing involves understanding and action. The measure we use in our spiritual lives—our willingness to submit and obey—determines the measure we receive from God. This is not about material possessions but about being on mission for God's Kingdom.
We also touched on the importance of spiritual growth and maturity. Just as learning a new language or skill requires practice and dedication, so does our journey with God. If we find ourselves stagnant, it may be because we have not fully accepted what God has previously tried to teach us. The Kingdom of God is not a secret society with hidden truths; it is accessible to all who seek it earnestly.
Finally, we reflected on the necessity of making a choice to submit to God's will and the transformative change that follows. This choice and change are essential for us to be effective in our mission for God's Kingdom. We concluded with a reminder of the freedom and worthiness we have in Christ, symbolized through the act of communion.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Kingdom of Heaven is Revealed, Not Concealed: Jesus' parable of the lamp teaches us that the truth of God's Kingdom is meant to be revealed to the world. This revelation is not just about who the Messiah is but also about the mission of the Messiah. We are called to be lights in the world, revealing God's Kingdom through our actions and words. [28:53]
2. Hearing Equals Obeying: When Jesus says, "If you have ears, listen," He emphasizes that true hearing involves understanding and action. It's not enough to merely hear God's word; we must also obey it. This obedience is a sign of spiritual maturity and a willingness to be on mission for God's Kingdom. [55:12]
3. Measure Equals Choice of Submission: The measure we use in our spiritual lives—our willingness to submit and obey—determines the measure we receive from God. This is not about material wealth but about our commitment to God's mission. The more we submit to God's will, the more He reveals His truth to us. [35:18]
4. Spiritual Growth Requires Practice: Just as learning a new language or skill requires continuous practice, so does our spiritual journey. If we find ourselves stagnant, it may be because we have not fully accepted what God has previously tried to teach us. We must be willing to revisit and accept God's earlier messages to continue growing. [56:49]
5. Choice and Change: The Kingdom of God requires us to make a conscious choice to submit to God's will. This choice leads to transformative change in our lives. We must be willing to let go of our own plans and desires to fully embrace God's mission for us. This choice and change are essential for us to be effective in revealing God's Kingdom to the world. [01:10:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:53] - Introduction to Ecclesiastes
[22:23] - Question of the Day: Languages
[23:57] - Prayer and Scripture Reading
[25:54] - Parable of the Lamp
[26:54] - Understanding Jesus' Intentions
[28:53] - The Mission of the Messiah
[29:42] - Revelation of the Kingdom
[31:14] - Importance of Listening
[32:36] - Pay Attention
[34:34] - Measure and Mission
[35:18] - Kingdom of Heaven Revealed
[36:18] - Messiah's Eternal Plan
[39:29] - Upside-Down Kingdom
[41:34] - Readiness for Revelation
[43:12] - Timing of Revelation
[45:14] - Seasons of Life
[46:48] - Apostles' Role in Revelation
[49:23] - Gospel for Everyone
[50:27] - Mystical Beliefs vs. Kingdom Truth
[52:03] - Accessibility of God's Truth
[53:15] - Hearing and Obeying
[55:12] - Spiritual Maturity
[56:49] - Accepting God's Earlier Messages
[58:26] - Personal Testimony
[01:02:13] - Measure Equals Submission
[01:10:41] - Choice and Change
[01:12:17] - Prayer and Communion
[01:17:07] - It is Finished
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Mark 4:21-25 (Parable of the Lamp)
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus mean when He says a lamp is not brought to be put under a basket or a bed, but on a lampstand? (Mark 4:21)
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of Jesus' statement, "If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen"? ([31:14])
3. How does the measure we use in our spiritual lives affect what we receive from God, according to Mark 4:24-25 and the sermon? ([34:34])
4. What does the sermon suggest is the relationship between hearing God's word and obeying it? ([53:15])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the parable of the lamp illustrate the mission of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God? ([28:53])
2. Why is it important to understand that the Kingdom of God is an "upside-down kingdom," and how does this challenge our preconceived notions? ([39:29])
3. What does the sermon imply about the consequences of not fully accepting what God has previously tried to teach us? ([56:49])
4. How does the concept of "choice and change" play a role in our effectiveness in revealing God's Kingdom to the world? ([01:10:41])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God's truth was revealed to you. How did you respond, and what impact did it have on your spiritual journey? ([28:53])
2. Jesus emphasizes that true hearing involves understanding and action. What steps can you take this week to not only hear but also obey God's word? ([53:15])
3. The sermon mentions that the measure we use in our spiritual lives determines what we receive from God. How can you increase your willingness to submit and obey God's will in your daily life? ([34:34])
4. Have you ever experienced a period of spiritual stagnation? What might God be trying to teach you that you have not fully accepted? ([56:49])
5. The sermon discusses the necessity of making a conscious choice to submit to God's will. What specific areas of your life do you need to surrender to God, and how can you start doing that today? ([01:10:41])
6. How can you practice being a light in the world this week, revealing God's Kingdom through your actions and words? ([28:53])
7. Think about a skill or habit you have developed over time. How can you apply the same dedication and practice to your spiritual growth? ([56:49])
Devotional
Day 1: The Kingdom of Heaven is Revealed, Not Concealed
The parable of the lamp in Mark 4:21-25 teaches us that the truth of God's Kingdom is meant to be revealed to the world. Jesus uses the analogy of a lamp to illustrate that the message of the Messiah and the mission of the Kingdom of God should be visible and not hidden. This light, representing the truth and mission of the Messiah, is meant to be placed on a lampstand, symbolizing that it should shine brightly for all to see. As followers of Christ, we are called to be lights in the world, revealing God's Kingdom through our actions and words. This revelation is not just about acknowledging who the Messiah is but also about actively participating in His mission.
The Kingdom of God challenges our preconceived notions and requires us to adopt a new way of thinking. It is an upside-down kingdom where the last shall be first, and the first shall be last. This transformative message is meant to be shared openly, not kept secret. By living out the principles of God's Kingdom, we become beacons of light, guiding others towards the truth and hope found in Christ. [28:53]
Mark 4:21-22 (ESV): "And he said to them, 'Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light.'"
Reflection: How can you actively reveal the truth of God's Kingdom in your daily interactions and decisions today?
Day 2: Hearing Equals Obeying
When Jesus says, "If you have ears, listen," He emphasizes that true hearing involves understanding and action. It's not enough to merely hear God's word; we must also obey it. This obedience is a sign of spiritual maturity and a willingness to be on mission for God's Kingdom. True hearing means that we internalize God's teachings and allow them to transform our lives. It requires us to move beyond passive listening to active implementation of God's word in our daily lives.
Obedience to God's word is a reflection of our commitment to His mission. It demonstrates our readiness to align our lives with His will and purpose. By obeying God's word, we show that we are not just hearers but doers of the word. This obedience leads to spiritual growth and maturity, enabling us to be effective ambassadors of God's Kingdom. [55:12]
James 1:22-24 (ESV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like."
Reflection: In what specific area of your life is God calling you to move from hearing to obeying His word today?
Day 3: Measure Equals Choice of Submission
The measure we use in our spiritual lives—our willingness to submit and obey—determines the measure we receive from God. This is not about material wealth but about our commitment to God's mission. The more we submit to God's will, the more He reveals His truth to us. Our spiritual growth and understanding are directly linked to our level of submission and obedience to God. When we choose to submit to God's authority, we open ourselves up to receive more of His wisdom and guidance.
This principle challenges us to examine the depth of our commitment to God's mission. Are we willing to fully surrender our plans and desires to align with His will? The measure of our submission reflects our trust in God's plan and our readiness to be used for His purposes. By choosing to submit, we position ourselves to receive greater revelations of God's truth and to be more effective in our mission for His Kingdom. [35:18]
Luke 6:38 (ESV): "Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it challenging to submit to God's will? How can you take a step towards greater submission today?
Day 4: Spiritual Growth Requires Practice
Just as learning a new language or skill requires continuous practice, so does our spiritual journey. If we find ourselves stagnant, it may be because we have not fully accepted what God has previously tried to teach us. Spiritual growth is a process that involves revisiting and accepting God's earlier messages. It requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn and grow. Our spiritual journey is not a one-time event but a continuous process of learning and transformation.
To grow spiritually, we must be intentional about our practices and disciplines. This includes regular prayer, studying God's word, and applying His teachings in our lives. By consistently engaging in these practices, we create an environment for spiritual growth and maturity. If we find ourselves stagnant, it is an opportunity to reflect on what God has been trying to teach us and to recommit to our spiritual disciplines. [56:49]
Hebrews 5:12-14 (ESV): "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."
Reflection: What spiritual practice can you commit to today to foster your growth and maturity in your walk with God?
Day 5: Choice and Change
The Kingdom of God requires us to make a conscious choice to submit to God's will. This choice leads to transformative change in our lives. We must be willing to let go of our own plans and desires to fully embrace God's mission for us. This choice and change are essential for us to be effective in revealing God's Kingdom to the world. Making this choice involves a deliberate decision to prioritize God's will over our own. It requires us to trust in His plan and to be open to the changes He wants to bring about in our lives.
Transformative change is a hallmark of the Kingdom of God. When we choose to submit to God's will, we experience a shift in our priorities, values, and actions. This change is not just for our benefit but also for the benefit of those around us. By allowing God to transform us, we become more effective in our mission to reveal His Kingdom to the world. This choice and change are ongoing processes that require daily commitment and surrender. [01:10:41]
Romans 12:1-2 (ESV): "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Reflection: What is one specific area of your life where you need to make a conscious choice to submit to God's will? How can you begin to embrace the transformative change that follows?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus didn't come to rescue people from Rome. Jesus came to rescue people eternally from the bondage of sin. Jesus didn't come to heal people of physical illness. Jesus came to heal all people. Jesus didn't come, uh, to rescue just a few people from spiritual illness. Jesus didn't come, uh, to rescue just a few people from spiritual oppression. Jesus came to provide the opportunity so that all people for all time could be saved from spiritual oppression." [37:18] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The kingdom of God doesn't hold secrets back. Until you become a super saint. The kingdom of God doesn't hold back secrets. Until you become a mega giver. Here's the truth. About the kingdom of God. The same truths. When Greg Laurie. Leads Harvest Crusade. Are available to him. As they are to everybody. And every single person in the crowd. The same truths. That were available to Billy Graham. During his crusades. Were also available to every single person. In the crowd." [50:57] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The real secret. Of the kingdom of God. Is that the kingdom of God isn't a secret. That's the big secret. That it's not a secret. But there is a truth. That needs to be attached. To this. Only the amount. That you desire. To be revealed. Will be revealed. If you don't want to know more. You're not going to get more. But the more you want. The more you reach for. The more God wants. To give you." [52:39] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God created you. To be a vessel. That he's going to use. To change the world. That is the purpose of the church. It's the not so secret. Message of the kingdom of God. That he wants us to be a part of it. But. We also have to be doers. That obeying God. Has to be directly correlated. To hearing God. And if we're not obeying. Then are we hearing?" [55:12] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus says, listen. All of a sudden, those red letters are bold. They're bold red letters. In the next verse, he's going to almost repeat himself, and he's going to say, pay attention. Oh, now. Now they're underlined and highlighted. Like, Jesus is saying, this is important. Everything that I say is important. But this is really important. Please pay attention." [33:33] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The people that it will be revealed to are the people who are ready and willing to be on mission for the kingdom of God. The people that it will be revealed to are the good soil that we talked about last week. That are ready and willing to receive it." [41:34] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The apostles didn't understand. The message of salvation. Until they actually witnessed. The resurrection. So many times. Jesus. Foreshadows that he's going to have to die. And it's. Like the disciples. Never really picked up on this. Or maybe they just ignored it. Because it wasn't a message that they wanted to hear. And then Jesus gets captured. And then Jesus gets tortured. And then Jesus gets put to death. And what do they do? They go into mourning. They don't actually think. Jesus is coming back. Until three days later. When the tomb is empty. And they realize. He's resurrected. Now they understand. What all of these stories. Meant. They finally understand. The message of salvation." [47:50] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The kingdom of heaven is revealed, not concealed. When we first read the verse. We talked about this, that, um, this is a similar analogy, but it's a different message on the light. Jesus was first referring to was who the Messiah was. And at this point, Jesus that he is going to be the sacrificial lamb, the sacrificial savior. Um, he's made it very clear who he is. Uh. This time, this message is referring to revealing, uh, how the Messiah planned on saving the world." [36:18] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The kingdom of God. Doesn't hold secrets back. Until you become a super saint. The kingdom of God. Doesn't hold back secrets. Until you become a mega giver. Here's the truth. About the kingdom of God. The same truths. When Greg Laurie. Leads Harvest Crusade. Are available to him. As they are to everybody. And every single person in the crowd. The same truths. That were available to Billy Graham. During his crusades. Were also available to every single person. In the crowd. The same truths of the gospel. Are available to you. As they are to me. As to anybody sitting in any seat. In any church. Or any person who is employed by a church. The secrets of the kingdom of God. Are not a secret. They are available for all. The kingdom of God. Is obtainable. They are within. Grasping distance." [50:57] (70 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The apostles didn't understand. That the gospel was for everyone. Until the Holy Spirit showed up. And Gentiles were being filled. With the Holy Spirit. And being converted. And all of a sudden. All of these Jewish guys. They're like. Oh. This really is for everybody. And then Jesus calls Paul. And gives that. Gives him. The mission. To take the gospel. To the Gentiles. Now all of a sudden. The message. Of the kingdom of God. Is for everyone. But it's going to take time. For all of this to play out." [49:23] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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