
Good News!
Outside of the Kingdom: wickedness, sin, unrest, conflict, fear, pain and despair.
Inside of the Kingdom: righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Introduction:
Chapter 14 of Romans is about conflict in the church, specifically the conflict between the ‘weak’ and the ‘strong’.
The ‘weak’ are experiencing the scruples of conscience that has been conditioned by upbringing, culture or tradition.
The ’strong’ are enjoying the freedom and the accompanying liberties that the Gospel of Christ brings.
Romans 14:17
Paul - The Kingdom of God is
-neither rules nor the absence of rules
-neither Legalism nor License
-neither Religion nor Irreligion
Religion is man’s attempt to reach God.
Christianity is a relationship with God; which is possible because God Himself reached out to us in Jesus Christ!
Kingdom:
Jesus - The Kingdom of God is at hand…
The Kingdom of Rome:
a kingdom of oppression
a kingdom of injustice
a kingdom of fear
The Kingdom of God:
a Kingdom of healing
a Kingdom of justice
a Kingdom of love & joy
Kingdom in the New Testament:
The rule of Christ is not a physical realm but the reality where God rules and his will is done.
The saving reign of Christ.
The Kingdom of God is present and future.
WE HAVE BEEN INVITED INTO THE KINGDOM, BUT WE CANNOT ENTER ON OUR OWN
New Testament Example:
Parable of the Wedding Feast and Wedding Garment
Old Testament Examples:
Jeremiah 24:7
Ezekiel 36:26-27
-A New Heart
-A New Spirit
-Kingdom Life
Righteousness
Justification - A declaration of Righteousness and an imputation of Christ’s righteousness.
A de-facto righteousness of the believer and right standing with God.
Sanctification - A practical righteousness
A holy, obedient and God-honoring life.
Peace
Peace with God
Romans 5:1-2
Peace with Others
Ephesians 4:1-3
Joy
Joy in our Salvation
Joy in our Community
Application:
Romans 14:19 - Build Up!
Pursue Righteousness
Seek peace
Experience Joy
The Kingdom of God is a reality Jesus invites you to, the Holy Spirit transfers you into, and the Father welcomes you to.