Grand Finale - Kingdom Proclaimed!

Devotional Reading:
Luke 24:46-49
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

Devotional Question:
Have you been made able to understand? Jesus instructs us to proclaim what he has done! Is the greatest proclamation ever within a kingdom the crowning of a new king? Jesus Christ has conquered sin and death - this is the good news of the Kingdom of God! What was the promise of the Father?

Devotional Reading:
Acts 1:1-11
In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

[The Ascension] So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on,he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

Devotional Question:
How did Jesus' Kingdom come to stay on earth with his children? The disciples wanted the kingdom of Israel - but God gave them an even better gift! Consider what John reports:

Revelation 5:10
and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”

Did You Know?

This is the final devotional to be written for this blog - but there is much more to learn about God's kingdom! Please take some time to read God's Word and ask him to teach you more about how he first loved us!

The Kingdom Points To A King - Is Your Heart Ready?

Devotional Reading:

Matthew 13:18-23

[The Parable of the Sower Explained] “Hear then the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”
Matthew 13:1-23 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Who prepares the soil in this parable? What is Jesus trying to explain about how his kingdom works? Perhaps we are incapable of changing our own hearts - but we can ask Him to do that which we cannot.

Did You Know?

This Easter - the good news of salvation is that Jesus Christ died for you and for me. Perhaps most people have heard this ... yet have you considered the good news of the kingdom of God? Has he prepared your heart?

The good news of the Kingdom of God involves his death ... but even more amazing, His resurrection!

There's a new king in town - and He has indeed conquered sin! Salvation is necessary - but that is only the tip of the iceberg! His kingship of his kingdom spurs us toward everlasting joy!

Kingdom 101 - A Tough Pill To Swallow

Devotional Reading:
Luke 7:28
I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Luke 7:26-30 (in Context)

Devotional Question:
Why does Jesus give such a high commendation to John the Baptist? Read the passage in context to find out as you prepare your heart for this Easter.

Did You Know?

The kingdom begins with humility. Consider how was Eve seduced into prideful sin. The lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life itself resulted in separation from the kingdom of God Genesis 3:6. The root of the sin in my life is pride.

Does God oppose you? James 4:6b - “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

Isn't it true... greatness is the derivative .. not the function/goal of the kingdom focused Christians? How did Jesus Christ himself model greatness the night of the last supper John 13:1-20? Or consider reading Mark 10:45 to learn more about "The Greatest Of These..."

Man Fails... Quickly: Chin Up!! God Provides!

Devotional Reading:

Matthew 5:17-20
[Christ Came to Fulfill the Law] “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Devotional Question:

What is Easter really about? How can I be exceedingly righteous when I cannot seem to keep the Law?

Did You Know?

Over and over the Bible shows us examples of how no one is able to keep God's law. Man fails - and fails miserably! And quickly! No matter what we do - we are unable to meet God's standard. Consider the wickedness that demanded the flood of Noah... Or how many hours it took for the 10 Commandments to be broken after they were given? Man just cannot keep an agreement with God on his own.

Easter is about good news! The greatest became the least. God really does want us to love him!

God himself provides his perfect Son! Why? Because we can't meet our end of the bargain! So God provides what we desperately need - so that we can have a relationship with him!

Mysteries Revealed - To His Children

Devotional Reading:

1Corinthians 15:50-58
[ Mystery and Victory ] I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.”

“O death, where is your victory?

O death, where is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

Devotional Question:

Why does Paul describe this as a mystery and not a secret? Secrets are kept hidden - but mysteries can be revealed (and understood). How can I understand this mystery?

Did You Know?

I can do nothing to save myself. However, I am instructed to labor in the Lord (and our labor will not be in vain). This sounds like a mystery. How can they both be true at the same time (Abraham also faced this dilemma: Genesis 22)? God reveals this mystery to his children. 

Ephesians 1:7-10
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

An Arimathean Kingdom Seeker

Devotional Reading:

Mark 15:43
Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Mark 15:42-44 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Are you seeking the Kingdom of God ... Like Joseph of Arimathea?

Devotional Reading:
Luke 23:50-51
Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God.
Luke 23:50-56 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Joseph of Arimathea is commended and remembered as being good and righteous. When standing before a public court of judgement - would there be enough evidence to convict you of being a follower of Christ? Do you hold up Jesus Christ as your king, or just your sidekick?

Did You Know?

Kingdom courage is not human nature. It is a work of God. This is why Jesus sent us a helper!

John 14:15-17
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.

The Wrong Kingdom - A Palm Sunday Mistake

Devotional Reading:

Mark 11:7-9
And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. And those who went before and those who followed were shouting,“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!”

Devotional Question:

Which kingdom did the people trust in? Kingdom of God? Or kingdom of David? If you have heard the rest of the Easter story... we see how quickly the people turn on Jesus as their King and demand his life be taken.

Did You Know?

The word "Hosanna" means quite literally "Save, please!" It is urgent. This is a plea for salvation. But what did the crowds of people want restored? Sadly, they appear concerned about the kingdom of their father David. Jesus teaches over and over about the kingdom of his Father - God! This kingdom is the kingdom of heaven... and the kingdom of God!

Hosanna Reference:
John Piper - Desiring God: Hosanna, Palm Sunday

Is Your Ticket Valid?

Devotional Reading:
2 Peter 1:11
For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1:3-10 (in Context)

Devotional Question:
Which Way? Please! What can I do to gain entrance into the kingdom?

Devotional Reading:
John 3:4-7
Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’

Devotional Question:

This sounds impossible! Does Jesus make it sound like there is anything you can do on your own to make yourself right with God?

Did You Know?

Jesus tells us exactly how we are to be made right with God. Religions try to fabricate what "we" must do be made in right standing with God. Jesus Christ shows us that God himself alone is able to re-instate a relationship between Creator and created. God's provision is our only valid hope. It is a fatal idea to think we can add even one little thing to justify entrance or presence into His kingdom. In fact, imagine a conversation with Adam or Eve - or - consider the plight of the very first animal (first death ever) that ever had to die sacrificially to provide them a suitable covering for their shame.

The human strivings detailed in 2 Peter 1:5-7 attest to confirmation and assurance (for us) - not admittance. Admittance is by God's grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). Assurance is for when we "little faith-er's" forget what we hope for because we demand and expect to see. But here is a promise that rings true and should always give us hope:

2 Timothy 2:13

if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself.

Is your ticket valid? Validate don't fabricate.

The Untouchable

Devotional Reading:

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Romans 14:16-18 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Does Paul teach that the Kingdom of God is physical or spiritual? Why are there so many directives to comparing physical things to intangibles?

Devotional Reading:
Hebrews 12:28
Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe,
Hebrews 12:27-29 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Is there anything that can be touched that cannot still be shaken? Is Paul teaching that the kingdom of God is spiritual?

Did You Know?

The relationship between a spiritual kingdom of God and a finite physical world we live within is a major theme of instruction in the Bible. It's called Faith. We easily believe what we can see - but faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we cannot see.

Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

So... what is your hope in?

The Greatest of These... Are The Humble

Devotional Reading:
Matthew18:1-4
[Who Is the Greatest?] At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Devotional Question:

How do you humble yourself like a child?

Did You Know?

God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. According to James 4:5-8 submission to God is how you humble yourself like a child:

Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, “He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”? But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

O You Of Little Faith...The Better Question Is?

Devotional Reading:

Acts 1:6-7
[ The Ascension ] So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
Acts 1:6-8 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Why (after teaching about the "Kingdom of God" for at least a couple of years) do his disciples still insist on focusing on the Kingdom of Israel?!? He just spent 40 days speaking about the "Kingdom of God" however, Jesus is amazingly patient ... not easily angered... and he reminds them that this is not their focus, worry, or concern.

Did You Know?

The very next verse in Acts is quite encouraging! Verse 8 also reminds us that God has a sovereign and providential plan for a human race that is prone to wander... and forget. He blesses his children with another gift that we simply do not deserve - but desperately need!

Acts: 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 

Where Your Devotion Is - There Will Your Heart Be Also

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 13:44
[The Parable of the Hidden Treasure] “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
Matthew 13:43-45 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Was this a good find or what?!?

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 13:45-46
[The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value] “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Matthew 13:44-46 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Does this sound like repentance? Repentance is not just a change of mind; it is a change of heart. Isn't it an inward response, not merely external activity, but its fruit will be evident in the true believer's behavior?

Did You Know?

Jesus teaches for us to store up treasures in heaven. Matthew 6:21,and Luke 12:34 teach about devotions.  Remember: the heart of the matter ... is a matter of the heart. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Deadly Consequences of Misplaced Faith

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 8:5-13 
[The Faith of a Centurion]
When he had entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this,he marveled and said to those who followed him, 

“Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith. 

I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was healed at that very moment.

Devotional Question:

Why does Jesus marvel in this story? Can you remember a time where Jesus declares: "O you of little faith"? In this story, Jesus declares the opposite: "With no one in Israel have I found such faith?" Why does this Gentile find the most favor ... even above all in Israel? Which King and Kingdom is your faith in?

Did You Know?

Jesus promises that many Gentiles will recline at the table. We also see his promise that some sons of the kingdom (referring to sons of Israel) will be forever lost. What point about faith is he trying to warn us of? Perhaps Jesus' closest twelve disciples are not the only ones who need reminders about "little faith?" Here are the "little faith" references:

• Matthew 6:30 
• Matthew 8:26
• Matthew 14:31
• Matthew 16:8
• Matthew 17:20
• Luke 12:28

How devastating it is to think that a person can mistakenly trust in the wrong thing... and be refused a seat at the table in the kingdom of heaven! This is devastation ... for lack of faith. Jesus says to trust in him - any other king and kingdom will have perilous consequences. 

Defending The Faith - How Did Paul Do It?

Devotional Reading:
Acts 28:22-31
[Paul in Rome] But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.” When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:

“‘Go to this people, and say,

“You will indeed hear but never understand,

    and you will indeed see but never perceive.”

For this people's heart has grown dull,

    and with their ears they can barely hear,

    and their eyes they have closed;

lest they should see with their eyes

    and hear with their ears

and understand with their heart

    and turn, and I would heal them.’

Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.

Devotional Question:

When faced with defending the faith - why does Paul proclaim the kingdom and the king?

Did You Know?

Teaching the Kingdom of God was one focal point of Jesus ministry. The New Testament (English Standard Version) has a total 98 occurrences of the phrase "Kingdom of God (or Heaven)." The phrase "eternal life" is mentioned 44 times (26 of which come from the Gospel books).

Power? If Not From The World - Where?

Devotional Reading:
Colossians 1:13
He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son,
Colossians 1:12-14 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

What is the domain of darkness Paul is speaking of?

Devotional Reading:
Luke 11:17-22
But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe; but when one stronger than he attacks him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his spoil.

Devotional Question:

Is the Good News (Gospel) of the Kingdom of God (or Heaven) stronger than the strongholds of the domain of darkness (kingdoms of the world)?

Why does Jesus describe overcoming (some versions use "binding") a strong man? Is Jesus proclaiming that the power of the good news of the Kingdom of God has bound Satan? That it overcomes the kingdoms and strongholds of the world ... where for a short time Satan has been permitted domain?

Did You Know?

John may have answered this question. Read the following proclamation and learn more about the kingdom:

Revelation 12:10
And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.

Fuel for the Kingdom - Fundraising Questions

Devotional Reading:
Luke 8:1-3
[Women Accompanying Jesus]
Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.

Devotional Question:

Why didn't Jesus set up a 401k? Why are his needs (and only his true needs) satisfied by the overflow of love from people who had desperate need of healing?

Did You Know?

This teaching of Jesus is crucial. Every teaching is crucial, but this one may prove quite difficult to understand and even more challenging to learn how to obey. This is an internal motive issue - which cannot be judged by external observation.

This is so important, it is the only verse to meditate on for today's devotional.

Understanding the heart of mercy is very difficult, unless you have truly repented. Unless you feel true compassion that is not mired with mere pity (a type of pride in your high position), it will be nearly impossible to understand why these women who followed Jesus would be so willing to provide out of their personal means.

When you have been lost, helpless or without hope... and have found Jesus Christ to be your ONLY viable Savior... it becomes clear that nothing compares with the riches found in Him alone. When you see hurting people - you see yourself - as though you were looking in a mirror. You are overwhelmed and motivated by compassion. This is the same compassion Jesus had in Matthew 9:35-37.

Trust And Obey - For There's No Other Way

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 18:3
and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 18:2-4 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Why are kids so lovable? ... and sometimes not?

Devotional Reading:
Mark 10:24
And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God!
Mark 10:23-25 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Why does Jesus address his audience as "children"?

Did You Know?

The very famous hymn "Trust and Obey" has a refrain that really sums up how Jesus declares people may enter the kingdom.

Refrain

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Yes! I "desire" but ... desire to "enter?"

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 19:23
And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 19:22-24 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Why Riches? The man desired eternal life ... was his desire pure (a man after God's own heart)?

Devotional Reading:
Mark 10:23
And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!”
Mark 10:22-24 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Again... This man desires eternal life desperately! Jesus speaks of "entering the kingdom."
How must I enter? 

Devotional Reading:
Luke 18:24-25
Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said, “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”
Luke 18:18-30 (in Context)

Devotional Question:
Do I desire eternal life - or do I desire to enter The Kingdom?

Did You Know?

Jesus tell us how we must enter! He doesn't just stop by telling us how impossible it is to live up to God's perfect standard... both internally (heart) and externally (body). He teaches to enter like a child.

Jesus' Kingdom - At Hand!

Devotional Reading:
Mark 1:15
and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
Mark 1:14-16 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Very close ... I wonder... why is Jesus telling people this kingdom is at hand?

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 3:2
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Matthew 3:1-3 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Repent from what? What did John the Baptist mean? Did he mean to change one's mind/purpose?

Did You Know?

The presence of God has an amazing story! From Genesis to Revelation, the presence of God is continually revealed to creation. Do you remember God's presence in the Garden of Eden? With Moses on Mt. Sinai?  In pillar of cloud by day and fire by night? How about in the Ark of the Covenant? Or the tabernacle? The Most Holy Place? A dove? What about God's presence in the form of a man - who is Jesus Christ himself!

In fact - because of the work of Jesus Christ, God's presence is no longer arms length away and just out of reach. His temple is not limited to merely one Holy City! Paul reminds us God's presence lives within his people:

• 1 Corinthians 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,

Good News!! Good Kings Have Good Kingdoms!

Devotional Reading:
Matthew 9:35
[ The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few ] And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.

Matthew 9:34-36 (in Context) 

Devotional Question:

Why does Jesus proclaim "gospel (i.e. good news) of the kingdom?" It seems like I hear mostly of the good news of my own salvation. I begin to wonder for what purpose I might be saved for.

Devotional Reading:
Acts 8:12
But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 8:11-13 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Why do we always sing about a "King" at Christmas? What good is a new king if you haven't the foggiest idea about his wonderful new kingdom?

Did You Know?

"Gospel" and "Good News" are often used interchangeably in the Bible.

In the days of “kings” when a very important message came from the King, a person called a “Herald” would proclaim a message to all the people! There was hardly any more exciting or important news in a kingdom... than news of a new King for this kingdom! Yet, Jesus did more than merely demonstrate his power over a physical world (which he created Colossians 1:3-23) ... he brought news of a whole new kingdom altogether! This indeed is unprecedented Good News!

Still Curious?? Maybe the kingdom study is getting old? Do your own investigation of each addendum to the words "Gospel" and "Good News"...

• of the kingdom of God
• of the grace of God
• of the glory of Christ
• of peace through Jesus Christ 
• word of the Lord
• of fulfilled promise
• of God
• of his Son
• about Jesus
• of your salvation

Please do not stop short by investigating only the gospel ... "of your salvation." There is soooo much more to this Herald than merely you alone ;-)

Who's In? Who's Out?

Devotional Reading:

Matthew 25:34

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

Matthew 25:33-35 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

From The Foundation Of The World? Does this mean Creation?

Devotional Reading:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality,nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 6:8-10 (in Context)

Devotional Question:

Only perfect people? How do I receive righteousness? Who then can be saved? 

It doesn't seem like I stand a chance at ever inheriting this kingdom of God.

Did You Know?

Someone asked Jesus ... "Who then can be saved?" Read three similar accounts about the rich young ruler:

Matthew 19:16-30, Mark 10:17-31, Luke 18:18-30