Seeking God's Kingdom: Trust, Community, and Transformation

Summary

On this ninth Sunday after Pentecost, we gather as a diverse community, united not by sameness of thought or background, but by a shared longing for God and a willingness to show up for one another. The Holy Spirit continues to breathe life, energy, and love into us, calling us to be authentic and welcoming, to celebrate our differences, and to seek God’s presence together. Our gathering is an act of seeking—a recognition that when we show up, God does too, meeting us in worship, song, prayer, and fellowship.

We explored the parable of the hidden treasure, a story Jesus told to illustrate the incomparable value of the kingdom of heaven. Like the person who discovers treasure in a field and joyfully gives up everything to possess it, we are invited to recognize the profound worth of God’s kingdom—a treasure that transforms our priorities and compels us to let go of lesser things. The kingdom is often hidden, yet available to all who seek it with open hearts.

Trusting God is more than believing in God’s existence; it is a deep, sometimes difficult, act of surrender. Many believe God is real, but struggle to trust that God is interested and active in their lives. Our perception of God shapes our actions, our morality, and our openness to others. Jesus modeled and taught a trust in God who is present, trustworthy, and deeply invested in our well-being. We are called not just to believe, but to live as disciples—people whose lives reflect a growing trust in God.

We remembered Abraham and Sarah, who trusted God’s promises even when fulfillment seemed impossible. Their story reminds us that God’s faithfulness endures beyond our doubts and limitations. We, too, are counted among the stars—spiritual descendants of Abraham—invited to trust in God’s promises and to see ourselves as part of God’s unfolding story.

Jesus urges us to live with readiness and generosity, trusting in God’s good will. This trust frees us from anxiety about possessions and empowers us to give, serve, and remain spiritually alert. Spiritual practices—especially gathering in worship—help us stay awake to God’s presence and to one another. In community, we experience God’s voice, care, and transformation.

As we pray, give thanks, and serve, we are sent out to embody God’s love and welcome in the world, trusting that God shows up, keeps promises, and delights in giving us the kingdom.

Key Takeaways

- The Kingdom of Heaven Is a Hidden Treasure Worth Everything
Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a treasure hidden in a field, discovered by someone who joyfully sells all they have to obtain it. This parable challenges us to consider what we truly value and whether we are willing to let go of lesser things for the sake of something infinitely greater. The kingdom may be hidden, but it is available to all who seek it with open and expectant hearts. [25:06]

- Trusting God Goes Beyond Belief—It Requires Surrender
Belief in God’s existence is only the beginning; true trust involves surrendering control and relying on God’s interest and care in our lives. Many struggle to move from belief to trust, especially when God’s promises seem delayed or circumstances appear impossible. Yet, as with the trust fall exercise, it is only in letting go that we discover God’s faithfulness and presence. [29:10]

- Our Image of God Shapes Our Lives and Relationships
How we perceive God—distant or present, judgmental or generous—profoundly affects how we live, treat others, and understand ourselves. If we see God as uninterested, we may become self-protective or dismissive of others. But if we trust in God’s good will, we are freed to live generously, ethically, and with compassion, reflecting God’s character in our daily lives. [30:03]

- Spiritual Practices Keep Us Awake to God’s Presence
Staying spiritually alert is not about following a rigid set of rules, but about engaging in practices that help us notice and respond to God. Worshiping together, sharing communion, and hearing God’s word in community are central ways we experience God’s presence and are transformed. The right practice is the one that keeps you awake to God right now, in this season of your life. [42:15]

- God’s Promises Are for Us—We Are Counted Among the Stars
Just as Abraham was invited to count the stars as a sign of God’s promise, we are invited to see ourselves as part of God’s ongoing story of faithfulness. Even when fulfillment seems impossible, God delights in giving us the kingdom and calls us to trust in divine care. Our prayers, trust, and willingness to be sent are ways we join in God’s work and receive the abundance God longs to give. [46:22]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[13:36] - Gathering and Seeking God
[14:53] - Radical Welcome and Community
[15:45] - Worship and Singing Together
[19:56] - Children’s Parable Box: The Hidden Treasure
[21:49] - Exploring the Parable with the Children
[25:06] - The Treasure and the Kingdom of Heaven
[26:17] - Belief vs. Trust in God
[29:10] - The Challenge of Trusting God
[32:46] - Trust in Action: Atticus and Abraham
[35:45] - God’s Promise to Abraham
[39:34] - Jesus’ Teaching: Readiness and Generosity
[40:52] - Spiritual Practices for Staying Awake
[42:15] - The Power of Worship and Community
[46:22] - Praying and Counting the Stars
[50:01] - Prayers of the People
[53:00] - Offering and Thanksgiving
[57:39] - Communion and the Lord’s Prayer
[59:36] - Sending and Blessing
[01:01:35] - Announcements and Community Service
[01:05:14] - Final Blessing and Dismissal

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Hidden Treasure and Trusting God

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### Bible Reading

Matthew 13:44 (ESV)
> “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Genesis 15:5-6 (ESV)
> And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness.

Luke 12:32-34 (ESV)
> “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

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### Observation Questions

1. In the parable Jesus tells, what does the person do after finding the hidden treasure in the field? What does this show about the value of the treasure? ([25:06])
2. According to Genesis 15, what promise does God make to Abraham, and how does Abraham respond? ([35:45])
3. In Luke 12, what does Jesus say about God’s attitude toward giving us the kingdom, and what actions does he encourage his followers to take? ([39:34])
4. The sermon mentions that spiritual practices help us stay “awake” to God’s presence. What are some examples of these practices mentioned? ([42:15])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a hidden treasure, rather than something obvious or easy to find? What does this say about how we experience God’s kingdom? ([25:06])
2. The sermon talks about the difference between believing in God and trusting God. Why might it be difficult for people to move from belief to trust, especially when God’s promises seem delayed? ([29:10])
3. How does our image of God (whether we see God as distant or interested, judgmental or generous) affect the way we live and treat others? ([30:03])
4. Abraham and Sarah’s story is used as an example of trusting God when things seem impossible. What does their story teach us about faith and waiting on God? ([35:45])

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### Application Questions

1. The person in the parable gives up everything to gain the treasure. Is there something in your life that you sense God inviting you to let go of, in order to experience more of God’s kingdom? What might that look like for you? ([25:06])
2. The sermon says, “Believing in God is one thing. Trusting God is another. Trusting God is tricky.” Can you think of a situation where you believed in God but struggled to trust God with the outcome? What helped you take a step of trust, or what is holding you back? ([29:10])
3. How has your image of God shaped your actions or relationships recently? If you realized you see God as distant or uninterested, what is one step you could take to open yourself to God’s care and involvement? ([30:03])
4. Abraham was invited to “count the stars” as a sign of God’s promise. When you think about God’s promises for you, do you find it easy or hard to trust them? What helps you remember God’s faithfulness? ([35:45])
5. The sermon highlights the importance of spiritual practices, especially gathering in worship. What spiritual practice helps you feel most awake to God right now? Is there a practice you want to try or return to in this season? ([42:15])
6. Jesus urges readiness and generosity, saying, “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy.” What is one practical way you could practice generosity or readiness for God’s work this week? ([39:34])
7. Our community is described as diverse and welcoming, united by a longing for God. How can you help create a more authentic and welcoming environment in your small group, church, or daily life? ([14:53])

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to pray for trust in God’s promises, openness to God’s presence, and courage to let go of anything that keeps them from experiencing the “hidden treasure” of God’s kingdom.

Devotional

Day 1: The Kingdom of Heaven is a Treasure Worth Everything
The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field—so valuable, so life-changing, that when someone discovers it, they are willing to give up everything else to possess it. This treasure is not always obvious or easy to find, but when you encounter it, it fills you with joy and a sense of purpose that makes all other pursuits seem small by comparison. Jesus invites us to imagine what it would be like to stumble upon such a treasure, to feel the excitement and urgency to claim it, and to realize that God’s kingdom is available to all who seek it with open hearts. The invitation is to recognize the hidden, transformative gift of God’s presence and to respond with wholehearted commitment. [25:06]

Matthew 13:44 (ESV)
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Reflection: What is one thing you are holding onto that keeps you from fully embracing the treasure of God’s kingdom? What would it look like to let it go today?


Day 2: Trusting God When It Seems Impossible
Trusting God goes beyond simply believing in God’s existence; it means relying on God’s promises even when circumstances seem hopeless or beyond our understanding. Abraham and Sarah’s story reminds us that God’s faithfulness is not limited by our limitations or the passage of time. When God promised Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars, it seemed impossible, yet Abraham trusted, and God honored that trust. In moments when you feel like God’s promises are delayed or out of reach, remember that God’s timing and power are greater than our doubts. Trusting God may be tricky, but it is the path to experiencing God’s miraculous provision and steadfast love. [35:45]

Genesis 15:5-6 (ESV)
“And he brought him outside and said, ‘Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.’ Then he said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.’ And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness.”

Reflection: Where in your life do you feel God’s promise is delayed or impossible? How can you take one step of trust in God’s faithfulness today?


Day 3: God Delights in Giving You the Kingdom
God is not distant or begrudging; rather, God delights in giving you the kingdom, longing to pour out blessings and invite you into abundant life. Jesus teaches that God’s generosity is like that of a loving parent who can’t wait to give good gifts to their children. This perspective challenges us to trust not only in God’s power but also in God’s good will toward us. When we truly believe that God desires our good, it changes how we live—freeing us from anxiety, loosening our grip on possessions, and opening our hearts to generosity and readiness for God’s presence. [39:34]

Luke 12:32-34 (ESV)
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

Reflection: In what ways do you struggle to trust in God’s good will for you? What is one way you can practice generosity or readiness for God’s presence this week?


Day 4: Spiritual Practices Keep Us Alert to God
Staying spiritually alert is not about following a rigid set of rules, but about finding the practices that help you notice and respond to God’s presence in your life. Gathering for worship, singing, praying, and sharing in community are powerful ways to wake up to God’s activity and to experience transformation. These practices are not just traditions—they are lifelines that keep us connected to God and to one another, helping us to hear God’s voice, see God’s faithfulness, and remain ready for God’s movement in our lives. The key is to discover which practices help you stay spiritually awake in this season, and to make space for them regularly. [42:15]

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 spiritual practice helps you feel most awake to God right now? How can you intentionally make space for it this week?


Day 5: Radical Welcome Reflects God’s Heart
A community that truly welcomes all people—regardless of age, background, or identity—embodies the radical hospitality of God’s kingdom. When we greet others with genuine interest and kindness, we create a space where everyone can experience belonging and the love of Christ. This kind of welcome is not just about being friendly; it is a spiritual practice that reflects God’s inclusive love and invites transformation for both guest and host. Each act of welcome, no matter how small, is a way of participating in God’s work and making the kingdom visible here and now. [01:03:28]

Romans 15:7 (ESV)
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”

Reflection: Who is someone you can intentionally welcome or include this week—at church, at work, or in your neighborhood? What step can you take to make them feel seen and valued?

Quotes

Believing in God is one thing. Trusting God is another. Trusting God is tricky. Have you ever played that trust game where you fall back and people catch you? So I did that when I was young. It was horrifying. It was very frightening. I knew people who had been dropped, you know, falling into the arms of people, little different than falling into the arms of God. But it's one thing to believe those folks are back there. It's another thing to trust that they will catch you. And it is the same with God. [00:28:30] (39 seconds)  #TrustIsTheLeap Edit Clip

If you think God is uninterested in your life, that means you can't trust God. You do, you're the only one who can protect yourself. And if you think God is uninterested in your life, then it's okay for your morals to be a little off, you know, when others aren't watching. And if you think God is uninterested in other people's lives, then it's a whole lot easier to dismiss them, to oppress them, to be immoral when others aren't watching. [00:29:44] (35 seconds)  #GodsInterestShapesMorals Edit Clip

How we see God really affects how we live. It was for Jesus, and it is for us. For Jesus, God the Father was real, was there, was trustworthy, and was totally interested in our lives. And much of Jesus' teaching was getting us to see God the Father, God himself, the way God really was. There, trustworthy, totally interested. [00:30:18] (34 seconds)  #SeeingGodShapesLife Edit Clip

Trusting God is tricky, and it always has been, because that's part, I think, part of the free will that God gave us. That we spend our lives learning more and more how to trust, so that when we do trust, it is deep and it is real, and it is authentic. And trusting God changes how we live. It's easy to spot people who trust God. [00:31:33] (30 seconds)  #TrustGrowsWithFreeWill Edit Clip

For many of us it is hard to trust in God's good will we might have an easier time trusting in God's judgment or God's poor opinion of us but trusting in God's good will for us can be challenging. And then Jesus goes on to say how trusting in God's goodwill changes the way we live. He says, sell your stuff. Give your money away. Don't surround yourself with stuff. Don't use stuff to calm your anxiety. Downsize. Be free. Give alms. Give to charity. Give to the church. Be ready for God like servants waiting. Trust God's goodwill and trust that God shows up. [00:39:21] (47 seconds)  #TrustGodsGoodwill Edit Clip

Jesus urges us to be ready, to be prepared. Jesus says, be dressed for action like those who are waiting for their master to return. Be dressed and ready for action that there is an urgency in our waiting. There is a waiting with alertness. Jesus says, God is like that master headed our way. And when God arrives and we can have total confidence that God will arrive, that then God becomes a steward, seating us at the place of honor at the table. And so we wait, trusting that God shows up. [00:40:08] (43 seconds)  #ReadyAndAlert Edit Clip

That the spiritual practice of being at worship on Sunday morning changes us. It wakes us up. We hear God in each other's voice. We see God in each other's faith. We hear God in a different way when the word is proclaimed. We experience God differently when we share the Lord's Supper together. [00:42:29] (26 seconds)  #ReadyForEternalLife Edit Clip

``May you lead for God's mercy. May you trust in God even when it's tricky. And may your prayers join God's work in the world. And may the blessing of God Almighty, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be among you and remain with you always. [01:07:17] (17 seconds) Edit Clip