Good morning, Trinity Dallas. Today, we celebrate Mother’s Day and reflect on the profound impact of our mothers’ words and sacrifices. As we navigate the busy month of May, many of us find ourselves running on empty, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The world tells us to keep pushing through, but the kingdom of God offers a different path—one of rest, peace, and eternal provision through Jesus Christ.
The kingdom of God, also known as the kingdom of heaven, was inaugurated by the coming of Christ. It is a mystery revealed by Jesus, a now-and-not-yet reality that began with His birth and will be fulfilled upon His return. The kingdom is essentially God’s way of doing things, His rule of grace, and His dominion. Jesus redeems and restores our broken relationship with God, giving us access to this kingdom.
Entering the kingdom of God requires being born again, repenting, and having childlike trust. Being born again signifies a new spiritual birth that leads to continued growth in faith. Repentance involves turning away from sin and self-rule, and childlike trust means having an open, teachable heart that fully relies on God.
Living in God’s kingdom involves stepping down from the throne of our own lives and embracing a life of submission and dependency on God. This kingdom life is characterized by faith, prayer, worship, devotion to truth, love for God and neighbor, humility, and freedom. It is a life where we continually follow Christ, deny ourselves, and live in the freedom He offers.
Key Takeaways
1. **The Kingdom of God is a Mystery Revealed by Jesus**: The kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future hope. It was set in motion by Jesus’ birth and will be fully realized upon His return. This kingdom is essentially God’s way of doing things, His rule of grace, and His dominion. Jesus redeems and restores our broken relationship with God, giving us access to this kingdom. [04:54]
2. **Entering the Kingdom Requires Being Born Again, Repentance, and Childlike Trust**: To enter the kingdom of God, one must experience a new spiritual birth, turn away from sin and self-rule, and have an open, teachable heart that fully relies on God. This process involves continual growth in faith and a deepening relationship with Jesus. [10:02]
3. **Living in God’s Kingdom Means Embracing Submission and Dependency on God**: Kingdom life involves stepping down from the throne of our own lives and embracing a life of submission and dependency on God. This includes faith, prayer, worship, devotion to truth, love for God and neighbor, humility, and freedom. It is a life where we continually follow Christ and deny ourselves. [18:03]
4. **The Importance of Humility and Community in Kingdom Life**: Humility is essential in the kingdom of God. It requires us to respond to the Holy Spirit’s correction and guidance, often through community and the Word of God. Being in community challenges us and helps us grow in humility and trust in God’s guidance. [19:36]
5. **Freedom in Christ**: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross provides us with freedom from sin, death, and any form of bondage. Living in the kingdom of God means embracing this freedom and not being held back by past struggles or addictions. Jesus has made a way for us to live a life of freedom, hope, love, and community. [19:36]
