Kingdom Now and Not Yet

Living the Kingdom Now: A Glimpse of Our Eternal Hope

Bible Passage: Re 21:1–9, Ro 8:1–25, 1 Co 15:51–58

Summary: This theme reflects on the reality of the future kingdom of God, emphasizing how believers can experience its transformative power in their lives today, anchored in the promises of Revelation 21, Romans 8, and 1 Corinthians 15.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to live in the light of their glorious future with Christ. By understanding the implications of their identity as children of God and heirs of the promise, believers are empowered to engage positively in their communities, share hope with others, and persevere through trials, knowing that their present sufferings will be transformed into eternal glory.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the assurance of our future hope in Christ fundamentally changes how we live today. It instills a sense of purpose, awakens joyous anticipation, and motivates believers to reflect the values of God’s kingdom in their daily interactions.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout the Bible, Christ is the fulfillment of God's promise for a renewed creation. His resurrection promises victory over death, and through Him, believers are invited into a kingdom relationship that begins now and stretches into eternity. Revelation 21 illustrates the ultimate realization of Christ's reign, while Romans 8 and Corinthians 15 highlight the transformative nature of His work in present circumstances.

Big Idea: Believers are called to embody the values of the future kingdom now, rooted in the hope and assurance of their identity in Christ.

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, consider exploring the theological implications of the eternal state as described in Revelation 21. Use Logos to research how the images of the new heaven and new earth compare with Old Testament prophecies. Additionally, study the interplay of suffering and glory in Romans 8 and the resurrection implications in 1 Corinthians 15 to sharpen your understanding of how these themes coalesce in the life of the believer.

1. Revelation of Renewal

Re 21:1-3

Perhaps emphasize how the vision of a new heaven and new earth offers believers a tangible hope. This promise influences how we live today, as we embody the kingdom values of God’s presence with us, resulting in a life of transformative peace and purpose.

2. Renewed Comfort and Compassion

Re 21:4-6

You could highlight how God's promise to wipe away every tear and bring an end to pain resonates with our struggles. This motivates believers to live with hope and compassion, impacting their communities by exemplifying the comfort and restoration found in Christ.

3. Renewed Identity and Victory

Re 21:7-9

Maybe explore the identity and inheritance of believers as children of God. This assurance of victory over trials calls for a commitment to live fearlessly, embracing one’s role as heirs of the kingdom who reflect God's character and love.

4. Resurrected Life in the Spirit

Ro 8:1-17

Perhaps emphasize our new life in the Spirit, where we are freed from condemnation. This freedom inspires believers to pursue holiness and demonstrate the reality of the kingdom now, fostering relationships marked by grace and truth.

5. Resilient Hope in Suffering

Ro 8:18-25

You could suggest focusing on the future glory that outweighs present sufferings. This vision encourages believers to persevere through trials, showing that current challenges are temporary and have eternal purpose, leading us to expectant anticipation in Christ.

6. Resurrection’s Transforming Promise

1 Co 15:51-53

Maybe unravel the mystery of transformation in the resurrection. This promise emboldens believers to live courageously, driven by the certainty of being made whole, and to share their faith with boldness, pointing others to the hope found in Jesus.

7. Resolute in Christ’s Victory

1 Co 15:54-58

You could convey the victory over death, encouraging believers to stand firm and wholeheartedly serve the Lord. This assurance provides a framework for living with purpose, as every act of love and service is meaningful in God’s unfolding kingdom.