Scripture Reading: Matthew 24:35

Introduction

Many world leaders of the past seem to have believed that their dominions would stand forever, but Jesus Christ is the only ruler whose kingdom is truly eternal.

Discussion

I. God’s people have never been free of troubles.

A. The Israelites were often oppressed and defeated by their enemies (Exodus 12:40; Judges 2:1-3; 2 Kings 17:5-18; 25:1-21; Ezra 4; Matthew 24).

B. The early Christians suffered much violence as well (Acts 8:1; 12:1-3; cf. Matthew 10:24-25; John 15:18-20).

C. Some of the early churches fell away (Matthew 24:12-13; Revelation 2:5,16; 3:3).

II. In spite of all this, God’s kingdom will stand forever.

A. So say the prophets (Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 2:44; 6:26; 7:14).

B. So says heaven itself (Luke 1:31-33; Hebrews 1:8).

C. So says Jesus (Matthew 16:18).

D. As long as the Word remains, so does the kingdom (Luke 8:11; Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:23).

Conclusion

A. This kingdom will stand forever because it is “not of this world” (John 18:36), because it is not the work of human hands (Hebrews 8:2; Daniel 2:45), and because Christ is its foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11).

B. Every nation of this world will someday fall, but the kingdom of God will not. May we make the choice to stand with her!