Understanding the Kingdom
November 30, 2024

Matthew 6:33 summarizes the entire Sermon on the Mount up to this point. Jesus demands holiness before God rather than projecting external righteousness. We are a people defined by loving our enemies and forgiving others. Beginning in 6:19, he directly appeals to us to lay aside earthly cares and set our minds on the heavenly. Matthew 6:33 is an appeal to make God’s kingdom and righteousness the primary objects of our lives. That is the focus for the upcoming year.

I. Understanding the Kingdom

A. The Kingdom is God’s rule over creation, transcending physical and spiritual realms.

B. A Present Reality: Mark 1:15 - The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come

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. Repent and believe the
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!

  1. The kingdom is present in those who submit to God’s reign through Christ.

  2. Luke 17:20–21:The kingdom of God is not coming with something observable; no one will say, ‘See here!’ or ‘There!’ For you see, the kingdom of God is

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    .

C. A Future Hope

  1. It is already here but not yet fully realized in its entirety.

  2. Matthew 25:34: Come, you who are blessed by my Father; _inherit the kingdom_prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

II. What does the Kingdom Involve?

A. The Rule and Reign of Jesus.

  1. Psalm 103:19: The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over

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    .

  2. John 18:36: My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom

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    .

B. The Kingdom’s Citizens. i.e., those who are saved through Jesus Christ.

III. Why We Need to Understand the Kingdom

A. It Clarifies Our Identity and Purpose

  1. We are citizens of a different Kingdom, not of this world.

  2. Philippians 3:20: Our

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    is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.

B. It Guides How We Live

  1. Knowing what the Kingdom is shapes how we live daily.

  2. Matthew 5:16: In the same way, let your

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    before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

C. Provides Hope and Encouragement

  1. God’s Kingdom will ultimately prevail, bringing us perseverance and encouragement.

  2. 2 Corinthians 4:16: Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being

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    day by day.

D. Evangelism and Mission

  1. Jesus came proclaiming the arrival of God’s Kingdom, and He calls us to do the same.

  2. Matthew 28:19:

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    , therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

E. It Aligns Our Priorities

IV. As We Close…

A. God, the King, invites us into His presence.

B. He wants to rule not just over the world but over our hearts.

C. Jesus calls us to follow, trust, and live in step with Him.

D. So, the question is: will you enter?