Living in the Kingdom (PM)

Scripture Reading:  John 18:36   

Introduction:

I.  Like John the Baptist, Jesus preached, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17)

II.  The “kingdom of heaven,” is one of the most dominate themes found in the gospels, and yet, it seems to be the most difficult for the disciples to understand.

III.  With the completed New Testament and not living as a first century Jew, it is easier for us to understand the spiritual kingdom of God.

IV.  However, defining and understanding the nature of God’s Kingdom, is not the same as living right. 

Discussion:

I.  What happens when we do not live right in God’s kingdom? Matthew 16:21-23

A.  We will challenge the Lord’s authority.

B.  We will be siding with Satan.

C.  We will be an offense (hindrance) to Christ.

D.  We will be like everybody else.

II.  What happens when we do live right in God’s kingdom?

A.  We will have the peace of God. (Philippians 4:4-9)

B.  We will be free from the bondage of sin. (Romans 6:17-18)

C.  We will receive great and precious promises. (2 Peter 1:4)

D.  We will be partakers of the divine nature. (2 Peter 1:4; Philippians 2:5)

E.  At the judgment we will be on the right side. (Matthew 25:31-34)

III.  How do we live right in God’s kingdom?

A.  Know what distracts you. (2 Corinthians 2:11)                                              

B.  Put on the whole armor of God. (Ephesians 5:10-18)

C.  Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)  

D.  Wait on the Lord. (Isaiah 40:31) Obey with humility. (Philippians 2:8)

Conclusion:

Luke 17:20-21, “…The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”