Manifesting the Kingdom of God on Earth (2)
Notes
Transcript
Part 2
Part 2
Introduction
Attention Getter
Have you ever looked around at our world and wondered how it could truly reflect the beauty and perfection of heaven?
Imagine a world where every act of kindness, every miracle, and every moment of healing are clear reflections of God's Kingdom, shining brightly on earth.
As believers, we are not just spectators but active participants in bringing this heavenly reality to life.
Jesus, through His teachings and life, has given us the blueprint for manifesting God's Kingdom here and now.
Today, we will explore what it takes to see this Kingdom manifested on earth as it is in heaven.
We'll delve into the teachings of Jesus, look back at pivotal moments in church history, and understand how we can be the vessels through which God's promises are fulfilled in our world.
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to play your part in this divine mission!
Let’s pray
Purpose:
To understand what it takes to manifest the Kingdom of God on earth through Jesus's teachings and church history examples.
Opening Scripture:
10 ‘Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
I. Understanding the Kingdom of God
I. Understanding the Kingdom of God
Definition: What is the Kingdom of God?
Part one dealt with subject last week.
If you missed it I encourage you to watch it on Youtube.
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20 Now having been questioned by the Pharisees as to when the kingdom of God was coming, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed;
21 nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!’ For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.”
The Kingdom of God is all around us.
As a believer you are already in His Kingdom
It’s our job to spread His Kingdom throughout the earth
This was the primary focus since the birth of the Church
A focus the modern church needs to get back to
Illustration: Early Church Community
42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.
44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common;
45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.
46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart,
47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Explanation: How early Christians lived out kingdom values in their community.
We can see from this passage, the Kingdom is about
living out community
about serving one another
Again. something the modern North American Church has fallen away from
3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.
4 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function,
5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith;
7 if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching;
8 or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.
10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;
You see we are Not in this alone.
Holy Spirit wants to partner with us into making this happen throughout the whole earth
Holy Spirit equips and enables us to do so beyond our own means and abilities
You can’t say “I can’t do it”
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Our last series “Partnering with Holy Spirit” took a look at How Holy Spirit gives us supernatural gifts to aid in expanding God’s Kingdom
Let’s remember Holy Spirt also produces the fruit of the Spirit in our lives
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
As mentioned last week Jesus taught more about the Kingdom than any other topic.
I’ve devoted a major part of my life in studying those teachings so I can do my part in building Kingdom of Heaven
so let’s together take a look at some of those teachings
II. Jesus's Teachings on the Kingdom
II. Jesus's Teachings on the Kingdom
Parables of the Kingdom
The Mustard Seed and the Yeast
The Mustard Seed and the Yeast
31 He presented another parable to them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field;
32 and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.”
33 He spoke another parable to them, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.”
small beginning.
what starts with 1 can spread to billions
10 Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? They’ll change their tune when they see Zerubbabel setting the last stone in place!”
Going back to the vision, the Messenger-Angel said, “The seven lamps are the eyes of God probing the dark corners of the world like searchlights.”
Like myself many of you have big dreams,
we must never forget God always starts small, and builds on what we give.
Little boys lunch feeds thouands
Illustration: St. Francis of Assisi
Explanation: St. Francis’s life as an example of small acts of faith growing into a widespread movement of love and service.
Francis of Assisi, born in the 12th century, is a profound example of someone who lived out the teachings of Jesus and brought the Kingdom of God to earth.
Known for his radical commitment to poverty, humility, and service,
Francis exemplified how to live out the principles of the Kingdom in everyday life.
Early Life and Conversion
Early Life and Conversion
Francis was born into a wealthy family and enjoyed a life of luxury and indulgence.
However, a series of spiritual encounters and a growing dissatisfaction with materialism led him to a dramatic conversion.
He renounced his wealth, choosing instead to live a life of poverty and simplicity.
This decision was rooted in his desire to fully follow Jesus’ command to "sell everything you have and give to the poor" (Luke 18:22).
Ministry of Compassion
Ministry of Compassion
St. Francis of Assisi had a fear and abhorrence of lepers.
One day, however, he met a man afflicted with leprosy while riding his horse near Assisi.
Though the sight of the leper filled him with horror and disgust, Francis got off his horse and kissed the leper.
One of the most striking aspects of Francis's life was his deep compassion for the marginalized.
He saw the image of God in every person, especially the poor and the lepers.
Francis's embrace of a leper, an act of profound love and humility, is a powerful illustration of bringing the Kingdom to earth.
In a time when lepers were outcasts, Francis's actions proclaimed the dignity and worth of every human being, embodying the love and acceptance of Christ.
Preaching and Evangelism
Preaching and Evangelism
Francis’s preaching was simple yet powerful, emphasizing repentance, humility, and the love of God.
His life was his sermon.
As he traveled through towns and villages, he lived out the Gospel in such a way that others were drawn to his message.
His famous prayer, "Lord, make me an instrument of your peace," captures his heart for being a vessel of God's Kingdom on earth.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much
seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.
Love for Creation
Love for Creation
Francis is also known for his profound love for all of God’s creation.
He referred to animals and nature as his brothers and sisters, recognizing that all creation praises the Creator.
This love for creation is a reflection of the Kingdom of God,
where harmony and peace extend to all aspects of life.
His "Canticle of the Sun" celebrates this interconnectedness and reverence for God's handiwork.
Establishing the Franciscan Order
Establishing the Franciscan Order
Francis founded the Franciscan Order, which grew rapidly and had a significant impact on the Church of that period and society as a whole.
The order was dedicated to living out the Gospel through poverty, chastity, and obedience.
The Franciscans became known for their service to the poor, their dedication to preaching, and their commitment to living in harmony with creation.
Through this movement, Francis’s vision of the Kingdom of God continued to spread and take root in countless communities.
Legacy and Influence
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of Francis of Assisi extends far beyond his lifetime.
His life and teachings continue to inspire people around the world to live out the values of the Kingdom of God.
He demonstrated that following Jesus involves radical love, self-sacrifice, and a deep connection with both people and creation.
His life challenges us to consider how we can embody the principles of the Kingdom in our own context.
I have to admit, I have many thing still to learn about this,
I still have the belief “God if you give me this or that…I can do so much with it”
Francis proved you don’t need any of those things to make an impact on the world!
Beatitudes and Kingdom Living
The Beatitudes
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 “Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.
12 “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
So many christian look for their reward on earth.
We want our Blessings in this life....
interesting enough…where moth and rust destroy
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
20 “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;
21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Illustration: The Reformation
Explanation: How the Reformation sought to realign the Church with the values of the Kingdom of God as taught by Jesus.
The Reformation, a pivotal movement in the 16th century, sought to realign the Church with the core values of the Kingdom of God as taught by Jesus.
Spearheaded by figures like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli,
the Reformation aimed to address corruption, doctrinal errors, and the distance that had grown between the Church's practices and the teachings of Jesus.
Let’s take a closer look at how the Reformation sought to bring the Church back in line with the Kingdom values.
You will notice many of these values we still teach today
Why do I bring this up?
Well I believe its time for the church to have another Reformation
It helps to see the past to correct the future
Emphasis on Scripture (Sola Scriptura)
Emphasis on Scripture (Sola Scriptura)
One of the central tenets of the Reformation was "Sola Scriptura," meaning "Scripture alone."
Reformers believed that the Bible should be the sole authority in matters of faith and practice, directly countering the prevailing view that Church traditions and the pronouncements of the Pope held equal authority.
By emphasizing Scripture, the Reformers sought to return to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles as the foundation of Christian life and doctrine.
Illustration: Martin Luther and the Ninety-Five Theses
Martin Luther’s posting of the Ninety-Five Theses in 1517 is a significant moment in the Reformation.
Luther challenged the sale of indulgences and other practices not grounded in Scripture.
His insistence on the authority of Scripture over Church tradition aimed to realign the Church with Jesus' teachings and the early Christian community’s values.
Justification by Faith (Sola Fide)
Justification by Faith (Sola Fide)
Another key principle was "Sola Fide," meaning "faith alone."
The Reformers argued that salvation is a gift of God received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human works or merit.
This was a return to the teaching of Jesus and Paul, who emphasized that faith, not works, is the basis for righteousness before God.
Illustration: Justification in Paul’s Letters
Paul’s letters, particularly Romans and Galatians, stress that we are justified by faith apart from works of the law (Romans 3:28; Galatians 2:16). The Reformers highlighted these teachings to correct the Church’s emphasis on rituals and penances, seeking to bring believers back to a simple, faith-based relationship with Christ.
Priesthood of All Believers
Priesthood of All Believers
The Reformation also promoted the concept of the "priesthood of all believers,"
teaching that every Christian has direct access to God through Jesus Christ and does not require a human mediator.
This was in stark contrast to the hierarchical structure of the Church, where the clergy held a unique and elevated status.
Illustration: Jesus’ Teaching on Servant Leadership
Jesus taught servant leadership and emphasized humility among His followers (Matthew 20:25-28). The Reformers’ advocacy for the priesthood of all believers echoed Jesus' call for a community where every believer is empowered to serve and minister, realigning the Church with His vision of leadership and community.
Reforming Church Practices and Morality
Reforming Church Practices and Morality
The Reformers sought to address moral and spiritual corruption within the Church. Practices such as the selling of indulgences, simony (buying and selling of church offices), and clerical immorality were rampant. By calling for moral and ethical reforms, the Reformers aimed to purify the Church and align it more closely with the teachings of Jesus.
Illustration: Jesus Cleansing the Temple
Jesus’ act of cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) served as a powerful precedent for the Reformers. Just as Jesus drove out those who had turned the temple into a den of robbers, the Reformers sought to cleanse the Church of practices that dishonored God and exploited the faithful.
Emphasis on Personal Relationship with God
Emphasis on Personal Relationship with God
The Reformation emphasized a personal relationship with God, accessible to all believers.
This personal piety was a return to the intimate relationship with God that Jesus modeled and taught His disciples to seek.
Illustration: The Lord’s Prayer
Jesus taught His disciples to pray directly to the Father (Matthew 6:9-13), encouraging a personal and direct relationship with God. The Reformers’ emphasis on personal devotion and Bible reading aimed to cultivate this direct, personal relationship with God among all believers.
Education and Literacy
Education and Literacy
The Reformers believed that for individuals to engage with Scripture and develop their faith, they needed to be educated and literate.
This led to a push for widespread education and the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages, making it accessible to ordinary people.
Illustration: Translation of the Bible
Martin Luther’s translation of the Bible into German and William Tyndale’s translation into English were monumental efforts to make Scripture accessible to all.
This democratization of knowledge empowered believers to study the Bible themselves, fostering a direct understanding of Jesus' teachings.
The Reformation
The Reformation
The Reformation was a profound movement aimed at realigning the Church with the values of the Kingdom of God as taught by Jesus.
Through a renewed emphasis on Scripture, faith, the priesthood of all believers, moral integrity, personal piety, and education,
the Reformers sought to restore the Church to its original purpose as a community of faith living out the teachings of Christ.
This movement not only transformed the Church but also had lasting impacts on Christian practice and thought, continuing to influence believers to this day.
So what does that mean for us today,
after all, as Protestants we still practice and believe these things right.
Incidentally, what is a protestant.
Every believer who is noT part of the Roman Catholic Church
By the way Protestant me protester
They were given this name because they were protesting the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church
We can see throughout church History, and even though the History of God’s people in the Old Testament
God continually brings His people back into alignment when He people go off course
Whether it was the judges in the OT, or the Kings that did right in God eyes
Jesus when He formed the Church
Or the reformers when they brought things back to the Kingdom Ways
God is always there to correct.
I believe the universal Church is on the presipus of another refocusing.
And a big part of this taken plan will be a focus on the Kingdom of God
How do I know this,
well though Holy Spirit, but also through confirmation
Number of pastors who preached on the Kingdom of God last week
III. Active Engagement in Manifesting the Kingdom
III. Active Engagement in Manifesting the Kingdom
Living Out the Kingdom Values
35 ‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in;
36 naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink?
38 ‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You?
39 ‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’
40 “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
We must be willing to meet the needs of those around us.
The best method/ Jesus demonstrated way to expand the Kingdom of Heaven on earth
is in service and self sacrifice
1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
We must willing to sacrifice our temporary desires to serve those around us
28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
If anyone deserved to be served, it was Jesus,
But He demonstrated to us It was better to give than receive
12 So when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you?
13 “You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am.
14 “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.
15 “For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.
16 “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.
17 “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
Are you willing to serve?
or do you want to be served?
34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
35 “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Conclusion
What does it take to Manifest the Kingdom of God on Earth?
Believers willing to partner with Holy Spirit in sacrificial service of one another
that’s how we do it
Now I know what some of you are thinking, If I’m always giving and never getting I loose out!
Sorry...Not how the Kingdom of God works
38 “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.”
The way to get, is to give.
the reason you lack, is because you don’t give.
remember
33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
If we follow Jesus’s example and serve one another, God will take care of the rest!
Closing Prayer
Prayer for Commitment: Ask for God's guidance and strength to live out His Kingdom on earth.