August 12, 2021
There are only two kingdoms in this world: the kingdom of this world and the Kingdom of our God. These are in constant tension, for they are diametrically opposed. The ruler of this world is none other than Satan himself, while God’s kingdom is governed by the perfect Leader.
ANNOUNCING THE KINGDOM
Jesus’ first sermon was “Repent, the Kingdom of God is at hand!”(Matthew 4:17). The Sermon on the Mount is immediately following this announcement, recorded in Matthew’s gospel (Matthew 5-7). In Jesus’ most complete sermon, He tells us about the Kingdom of God. He gives us the manifesto of the Kingdom.
ENTERING IN
The Beatitudes are progressive. They build upon each other. Step by step, Jesus tells us how we enter this kingdom and experience it to its fullest. The one who does so receives the greatest riches and blessing. Notice the progression:
THE KINGDOM LIFE
The remainder of the book is a series of contrasts. “In this kingdom,” Jesus says, “You’ve learned to live this way. But my Kingdom is exactly the opposite. It is filled with righteousness, with forgiveness, with mercy, with overwhelming love, with humility, and with people who have contentment and peace, for my Father provides every need.
The wealthiest people in this world are not those who have houses and money and fame. The most blessed are the humble believers who have found the pathway into the Kingdom of God.
Father, we are overwhelmed when we hear Your Son speak of Your Kingdom. Thank you for providing the way into your Kingdom and that, by Your grace, you have transferred us from the kingdom of this world into the Kingdom of Your beloved Son. Thank You for giving us unfathomable, eternal blessings. Give us the courage to invite everyone we see into Your kingdom today!
February 06, 2025
When God begins working in our hearts, we often think it is just on our end. But God is not limited by time, geography, or power. He is working all the time in multiple places.
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Many people struggle with the assurance of their salvation, which is one reason an entire book of the Bible (1 John) is devoted to this theme. Here is John’s statement about why the Holy Spirit wrote 1 John through him.
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There are adjustments that must be made if you desire to live in the presence of God all day long. There must be a turning from and a turning to.