Recap
For centuries, God's people waited with anticipation for the promised Messiah. They longed for the day when God would overthrow their enemies and establish His Kingdom. But when the King finally arrived, He came in a way no one expected. Instead of leading a military revolution, Jesus began a gracious invasion. He healed the sick, welcomed the outcast, forgave sinners, and proclaimed that the Kingdom of God had come near. His mission was far greater than defeating earthly powers. He came to reclaim hearts. Jesus revealed that the Kingdom is wherever God's will is joyfully embraced and His reign is welcomed. The invitation into that Kingdom is open to everyone, but it requires a response. We enter by turning from our own rule, trusting the King, and surrendering our lives to Him. God never forces His rule upon us; instead, He lovingly invites us to repent and follow Him.
The greatest surprise was still to come. Rather than taking His place on an earthly throne, Jesus first took His place on a cross. His death and resurrection became the doorway into the Kingdom, making a way for sinful people to be restored to their King. This is why the Gospel is more than the message of personal forgiveness. It is the announcement that God's Kingdom has arrived. Yet we live in the tension of the Story's next chapter. The Kingdom is already here as Christ reigns in the hearts of His people through the Holy Spirit, transforming lives and advancing His purposes. And it is not yet complete, for we still await the day when King Jesus returns to fully establish His Kingdom, restore creation, and make all things new. Until then, His followers are called to live as citizens of that coming Kingdom, reflecting the heart of the King wherever they go.
The greatest surprise was still to come. Rather than taking His place on an earthly throne, Jesus first took His place on a cross. His death and resurrection became the doorway into the Kingdom, making a way for sinful people to be restored to their King. This is why the Gospel is more than the message of personal forgiveness. It is the announcement that God's Kingdom has arrived. Yet we live in the tension of the Story's next chapter. The Kingdom is already here as Christ reigns in the hearts of His people through the Holy Spirit, transforming lives and advancing His purposes. And it is not yet complete, for we still await the day when King Jesus returns to fully establish His Kingdom, restore creation, and make all things new. Until then, His followers are called to live as citizens of that coming Kingdom, reflecting the heart of the King wherever they go.
Reflection & Training
Reflect on the following questions as you continue to train your heart in God's story. Share your responses and thoughts with your group and other meaningful people in your life, such as your spouse or parents.
King Jesus
How would your life be impacted if you started to view Jesus as the King coming to restore his Kingdom vs. as the Savior coming to save you from your sins?
How does this change the way to talk about or share the Gospel? To practice, write out the Gospel story from this new perspective.
Spend time interacting with Jesus as King. How does that change your relationship?
How does this change the way to talk about or share the Gospel? To practice, write out the Gospel story from this new perspective.
Spend time interacting with Jesus as King. How does that change your relationship?
Seeking the Kingdom
Are you seeking the Kingdom? Are you seeking it first? What does this mean for you?
What is the difference between "seeking" the Kingdom vs. building or creating the Kingdom? Share a specific example in your life.
Review your time and relationships and note where the Kingdom is happening (God's will be done). Are there any changes you would make?
How could praying that the Kingdom comes on earth as it is in Heaven change your prayer life?
Try to literally "seek" the Kingdom this week. Did you see it in places you didn’t expect? Work, neighborhood, church?
How are you stewarding your resources for the Kingdom? (time, talents, money)
What is the difference between "seeking" the Kingdom vs. building or creating the Kingdom? Share a specific example in your life.
Review your time and relationships and note where the Kingdom is happening (God's will be done). Are there any changes you would make?
How could praying that the Kingdom comes on earth as it is in Heaven change your prayer life?
Try to literally "seek" the Kingdom this week. Did you see it in places you didn’t expect? Work, neighborhood, church?
How are you stewarding your resources for the Kingdom? (time, talents, money)
Share your Thoughts
Take a moment to share your reflections with your group in your group chat. Sharing how God is working in your heart will encourage others in your group.