Podcasts about kingdom of god matthew

A new MP3 sermon from How2go2Heaven is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: 👑 Seek First the Kingdom of God | Matthew 6:33 🌟 Subtitle: Gospel Shorts Speaker: Jim Meulemans Broadcaster: How2go2Heaven Event: Devotional Date: 5/1/2025 Bible: Matthew 6:33; John 3:16 Length: 2 min.

We explore the high stakes of the Kingdom of God—joy, priority, and truth. Jesus isn't just an option; He's the ultimate treasure. Tune in to discover what that means for your life.

Jason Leonard preaches on the good news Jesus came proclaiming.

Jesus said, “Again, I tell you, 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” (Matthew 19:24).

Feeling discouraged about the state of the world or the church? We continue to explore Jesus' parables, revealing how God's long story of redemption offers hope and purpose in uncertain times.

Do you want to know what childlike humility and faith are? Study Jesus. He was his Father's Beloved Son. And there was nothing fake about him. When he laughed, when he wept, when he got angry, when he was frustrated, when he was in prayer, or when he was in a fight. He was his Father's Beloved Son!It is the childlike heart that opens the Kingdom of God to all who truly want to enter it and live with God, in his plan, with Him at the center. The path of Christlike humility leads us into and forward in all the "Great" ways Jesus has given us in the gospel.

In this episode, we explore what it means to enter the Kingdom, not just study it, and how the church should function as an extended family on Kingdom mission. We reflect on Jesus' call to seek the Kingdom as treasure (Matthew 13:44-46) and examine how our modern, compartmentalized view of church has disconnected us from true Kingdom life.We challenge ourselves to move beyond picking and choosing commandments to full-hearted surrender to King Jesus. What does it mean to live the Kingdom dream rather than letting it gather dust? How do we build tables of fellowship that God uses to construct His Kingdom? Let's unpack these questions together.Scriptures Discussed: • Mark 12:33-34 – Not far from the Kingdom of God • Matthew 13:44-46 – The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl • Romans 14:17 – The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy SpiritDiscussion Questions: 1. What does it mean to enter the Kingdom of God rather than just admire or study it? 2. How does Jesus' vision of the church differ from our modern structures? 3. What are ways we've compartmentalized church life instead of integrating it into our homes, work, and social spaces? 4. How does seeing the church as a family change our expectations and responsibilities? 5. What does it mean to seek the Kingdom like treasure? What are you willing to give up to pursue it fully? 6. How have you seen “picking and choosing” affect discipleship in your own life? 7. What are practical ways to create Kingdom-centered communities that live out Jesus' commands in tangible ways?Challenge:This week, reflect on your own “Kingdom dream.” Is it gathering dust, or are you stepping into it with open eyes? How can you create a table for others to experience the tangible love and mission of Jesus?

Hello,Kindly listen to the teaching titled THE MANNER OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD (Matthew 18:15-17) by Rev. Agnes Joy Odongo from the Morning Devotion of Wednesday, 26th February 2025

“Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts—no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals. . . .” — Matthew 10:9-10 Did Jesus really mean this—to bring nothing extra when we travel for mission work? Do those instructions still apply to us today? When I travel for mission work, I usually pack to the limit (sometimes more). Roger Greenway, a missionary to Sri Lanka many years ago, recounted how his family had tried to ship their belongings from the United States in 18 barrels and two big crates—but the shipment was delayed by four months. In the meantime, they landed in Sri Lanka and learned that they could get along quite well without most of that stuff. Their dependence on local resources also helped them develop friendships with local people. When their baggage finally arrived, they were suddenly viewed by their neighbors as very wealthy people whose standard of living was much higher than the locals'. All that stuff actually created barriers between them and the people they had come to serve. Greenway later advised missionaries to be careful about what kind of message their belongings would send to others. Considering this, it's not surprising that for many centuries Christian missionaries made a vow of poverty. But this lesson applies to us all—what does our stuff and our lifestyle tell others about our priorities? Are we seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33)? Lord, thank you for your gifts to us. Help us to be generous and to let go of our stuff if it could become a barrier to serving you and others. Amen.

You're listening to the Two Rivers PCA church podcast. We are a family of faith gathering around God's redeeming love, growing in the grace of Jesus Christ, and going to serve our neighbors.For more information, visit us at tworiverspca.org.

The Bible talks about seeking The Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), but what does it look like to do that? As we live out our schedules and routines, we are reminded that there is an invitation to see through a Biblical lens that focuses on seeing people and moments in the way God sees them. Dr. David Campbell helps us grasp how we can have a Kingdom mentality inside our everyday living!Support the show

Welcome to the Fresh Start Series, where we kick off 2025 with a prophetic vision for what God has in store!

Happy New Year everyone!! In today's episode I will be speaking on Matthew 6:33 Seek, pursue, and let The Kingdom be your priority in everything you do this year. There is no greater purpose than to pursue God and all His righteousness. I pray

Consider the dangerous ensnaring temptations that come with a pleasant and prosperous situation. Few, very few people who live in the pleasures of this world escape everlasting hell. It is easier, says Christ, for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24). Not many mighty, not many noble, are called (1 Corinthians 1:26).

160: Do you Have your Priorities in the Right Order? We are entering into a new year and God is ready to do a new thing in you and your life. How can you make sure your priorities are in the order that God intends? In 2025, let's focus on what matters and stop focusing on all the things that do not matter. Let's talk about what our priorities should be and how to keep them in the right order. 1. Seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). AW Tozer says, "When God is exalted to His proper place in our lives 1000 problems are solved all at once." This is truth. We must stop seeking our comfort, our way, our desires. Our top priority is to do the Father's will. How do we do that? We are to be about our Father's business, not our own business. We are to surrender to the point that our desires line up with God's desires for us. This requires sitting at the feet of Jesus. 2. Seek to fulfill the plan and the purpose that God has for you. (Jeremiah 29:11) God has a purpose and a plan for you. What you are doing should line up with God's plan and purpose for you. There are many good things that you can do, but the things outside His plan for you are distractions. Spend some time seeking God's plan and purpose for you. How do we do that? - We begin by loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind. (Matthew 22:37) - Make sure to identify any idols in your life. The little g gods get in the way of you becoming who God is calling you to become. (1 John 5:21) Ask God to reveal anything you put before Him. We invite you to check out our courses and coaching programs. Let 2025 be the year to really get your life, your purpose, and your plan in order. Let's make sure that our thoughts and our desires line up with His thoughts and His desires for us. It's time! Schedule a time to chat - https://forms.gle/utvdGEX5uths18tX9 CONNECT WITH US AT: ▶︎Website: https://www.engageformore.com ▶︎Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/EngageforMore ▶︎Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/163312072559573 ▶︎Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/engageformore/ We exist to encourage you to engage and experience the more Jesus came to offer. Learn more about our Coaching Programs: https://www.engageformore.com/coaching Here's Pam's book - https://a.co/d/er42DKW Here's Pam's Blog - https://www.pampegram.com/master-what-matters Here's Pam's Website - https://www.pampegram.com #engageformore #priorities #christianliving #dailydevotional

The Kingdom of God ~ Decisions & Discernment (Matthew 7:12-20) This Sunday, we're taking a fresh look at the Golden Rule: "Do to others what you would have them do to you." Jesus not only calls us to kindness but flips the usual standard upside down, pushing us beyond avoiding harm to actively choosing love and compassion. We'll explore how this teaching, along with Jesus' warnings about life's “narrow gate” and “good fruit,” invites us into a deeper, richer way of life. Discover what it means to live a life that's not just about avoiding wrongdoing, but about pursuing love with intentionality, wisdom, and purpose. Together, we'll look at how Jesus' words help us walk a path that, while sometimes challenging, leads to a life that blesses others and, in turn, transforms us.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

The Kingdom of God ~ Asking, Seeking, Knocking (Matthew 7:7-11) This Sunday, we invite you to join us as we delve into the powerful teachings of Jesus on prayer in Matthew 7:7-11. Are you feeling distant from God or struggling to see answers to your prayers? Jesus promises that when we ask, seek, and knock, we will find a loving Father who delights in giving good gifts to His children. This message will explore not only the importance of persistent prayer but also the incredible access we have to God through faith. Together, we'll discover how prayer can transform our relationship with God and help us navigate life's challenges with renewed hope and strength. Whether you're a seasoned prayer warrior or someone looking to deepen your understanding of this vital discipline, there's something for everyone.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

When Jesus said, "I will build my Church" (Matthew 16:18), He envisioned a vibrant Kingdom movement that would thrive through the collaboration of different roles within the fivefold ministry—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Together, these diverse gifts would work in harmony to foster growth and extend His influence in the world.The Kingdom of God thrives on principles of multiplication and nurture, beautifully illustrated by the complementary roles of apostolic and pastoral ministry. Throughout His ministry, Jesus embodied this dual focus—venturing into new territories to share the message of the Kingdom (apostolic function) while also showing deep compassion for His followers (pastoral function). His instruction to "seek first the Kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33) resonates with both the broad outreach of apostolic work and the supportive nature of pastoral care.Within this Kingdom framework, apostolic leaders can effectively serve as pastors while maintaining their primary calling to expand God's Kingdom. Just as Jesus trained the twelve while continuing His broader Kingdom mission, modern apostolic pastors can shepherd a local congregation while focusing on raising up Kingdom-minded leaders who will further expand God's territory.The Kingdom principle of multiplication appears throughout Scripture, from God's first command to "be fruitful and multiply" to Jesus's parables about Kingdom growth. An apostolic pastor embodies this principle by developing what Scripture calls the "fivefold ministry" – apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12). These gifts were given specifically "for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ," ultimately advancing God's Kingdom purposes.When Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of God being like a mustard seed that grows into a great tree (Matthew 13:31-32), He was illustrating a fundamental Kingdom principle that applies to apostolic-pastoral ministry. The local church, under apostolic-pastoral leadership, becomes like that mustard tree – firmly rooted in one place while providing far-reaching influence and impact for the Kingdom.The Book of Acts provides a powerful model of this Kingdom-focused leadership approach. The apostles, while maintaining connection with their home base in Jerusalem, invested heavily in developing local leadership teams throughout the expanding Kingdom territory. They understood that Kingdom advancement required both the pioneering spirit of apostolic ministry and the stabilizing influence of pastoral care.This Kingdom-centric model becomes particularly effective when the apostolic pastor focuses on developing teams that understand and operate according to Kingdom principles. These aren't merely functional leadership teams; they're Kingdom representatives equipped to demonstrate and declare the reality of God's reign in their spheres of influence. As Jesus sent out His disciples with the mandate to "preach, saying, 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand'" (Matthew 10:7), so apostolic pastors send out equipped leaders to extend Kingdom influence.The development of pastor/elder teams takes on new significance when viewed through a Kingdom lens. These teams aren't just providing practical care; they're establishing outposts of Kingdom authority and influence within the local community. They become stewards of Kingdom culture, demonstrating the values and principles of God's reign in tangible ways.In practical terms, an apostolic pastor operating with Kingdom focus structures their ministry to reflect Heaven's priorities. Their preaching and teaching emphasize Kingdom principles, their leadership development programs focus on Kingdom values, and their strategic planning aligns with Kingdom purposes. Every aspect of ministry becomes an opportunity to advance God's reign and influence.The Kingdom principle of...

The Kingdom of God ~ Specks, Planks, and Pearls (Matthew 7:1-6) Today we explore one of Jesus' most quoted and often misunderstood teachings: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” We'll look at what Jesus meant by this challenging command, considering how we're called to navigate the delicate balance of judgment, discernment, and mercy. How do we help each other grow while resisting the urge to criticize or condemn? Together, we'll unpack the wisdom Jesus offers in Matthew 7, learning how to examine our own hearts before we seek to influence others. In a world quick to judge, this message invites us to reflect on our interactions and relationships through the lens of grace and humility. Together we'll see Jesus' call to self-examination can shape us into a community marked by empathy, patience, and mercy.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

Eliminating Worry ~ The Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:25-34)We all experience moments when anxiety and doubt creep into our lives, and it can be challenging to know how to respond. Together, we'll explore Jesus' powerful teachings from Matthew 6:25-34, discovering how we can find true peace by trusting in God's provision. This Sunday, we'll unpack the impact of worry on our lives and examine practical steps we can take to let go of our anxieties. We'll delve into how faith can shift our perspective, helping us to embrace a life filled with hope and trust.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

The Kingdom of God ~ The Good Life (Matthew 6:19-24) We dive deeper into Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and we come to a passage that address wealth and money. Jesus speaks on eternal values and temporary joys while giving us the blueprint to ensure treasures that will outlive our lives.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

The Kingdom of God ~ Forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15)We return to the Sermon on the Mount as we study 'The Kingdom of God.' The last time we studied this passage together we studied 'The Lord's Prayer.' In the prayer itself, there is a prayer for forgiveness."And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." ~ Matthew 6:12 NIVImmediately after the Lord's Prayer, Jesus speaks on forgiveness again. That's no surprise to us. If there's one area of the Christian life that proves to be challenging for us no matter how long we've been following Him, it's forgiveness. We'll look at what else Jesus has to say in addition to the Lord's Prayer as well as other Scriptures that will help us unpack this difficult yet life-giving spiritual discipline. Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

The Kingdom of God ~ Prayer & Fasting (Matthew 6:5-18)This Sunday, we invite you to join us as we delve into a powerful message from Jesus in Matthew 6:5-18, where He challenges us to examine the sincerity of our spiritual practices. We'll explore how Jesus calls us to pray and fast with a genuine heart, focusing on our relationship with God rather than seeking approval from others. This sermon will help you reflect on your own spiritual life, identifying areas where you might be tempted to put on a show for others and encouraging you to embrace a more authentic and private devotion to God. During our time together, you can expect to hear both practical insights and challenging truths that will inspire you to deepen your relationship with God. Whether you are new to these practices or have been walking with God for years, this message will offer fresh perspectives and encouragement to grow in your spiritual journey with sincerity and humility.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

The Kingdom of God ~ Giving & Hypocrisy (Matthew 6:1-4) This Sunday, we'll explore what it means to live out our faith with true righteousness and humility as we dive into Matthew 6:1-4. Together, we'll uncover Jesus' teaching on the dangers of seeking recognition for our good deeds and how we can cultivate a heart that seeks God's approval above all else. As we gather, expect to be challenged in how you view your own acts of righteousness and encouraged to deepen your relationship with God. This sermon is an invitation to examine our motives, practice righteousness in secret, and trust in God's rewards rather than the fleeting praise of others. Join us as we learn how to live out an authentic faith that not only pleases God but also reflects His love to the world.Need Prayer? Email us at roseburgfcc@gmail.com Connect with us on social at www.facebook.com/roseburgfccTo support the ministry of First Christian Church go to www.roseburgfcc.org/giving

Seek First The Kingdom of God and His Righteousness comes with a promise to the early disciples of Jesus. The principles embodied in this text help us to understand the will of God for our lives. Take your life to the next level as you ponder the message and begin to practice it in your life.Worried about the uncertains of the future and the state of the world amidst wars and nuclear threats. See how beautifully God has interwoven his promises to continue life on this planet.Will Planet Earth Be Destroyed? I use NALA to send money home, along with 100,000 others. Join with code WILLIAM-128438 and get $5.00 https://join.iwantnala.com/WILLIAM-128438Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/all-bible-prophecy-fulfilled--2642968/support.

The following was recorded at Stone Oak Bible Church. For more information about our church or for more resources, visit us at StoneOakBible.com.

Ange Gratasounas/am - Narwee Baptist Church

Talk 30  Mark 10:13-31  The Kingdom of God Welcome to Talk 30 in our series on Mark's gospel. Today we're looking at chapter 10 verses 13-31 where we read of how Jesus blessed the little children, and about a rich young ruler – Mark calls him a man. Matthew tells us that he was young. Luke tells us that he was a ruler – who asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. We'll work through the passage reading each section as we come to it, so we'll begin with verses 13-16.   People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16 And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.   v.13 People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. Mark has already shown us how powerful the touch of Jesus could be. It could bring healing to the deaf and mute, cleansing to the leper, and sight to the blind. We're not told why the people wanted Jesus to touch these children. It could be that they too were suffering from some such affliction, or it could simply be that they wanted Jesus' blessing on their lives. Matthew also tells us that they wanted Jesus to pray for them, but we're not told what for. Neither are we told why the disciples rebuked them. Perhaps, like many people in those days, they considered children unimportant. If so, that would account for Jesus' indignant response in the following verses.   14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16 And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.   These verses teach us first and foremost about the importance of little children or babies (Luke 18:18). We are to do nothing that would hinder them in coming to Jesus, or to put it more positively, we are to do everything we can to help them come to him. Perhaps we should be asking ourselves if there is anything more we could do to reach children for Jesus.   But we also see in these verses important truths about the kingdom of God. There are no less than five references to the kingdom of God in today's passage, two in the verses we have just read and three in verses 23-25 where Jesus stresses how hard it is for the rich to enter it. We'll turn to the story of the rich young ruler in just a moment, but first let's compare what Jesus says in verse 15 with what he says in verse 25. In verse 15 he says:   I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.   and in verse 25 he says: It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."   There's nothing wrong with being rich, but the problem can be that people who are rich can easily become self-reliant. Instead of depending on God, they can come to depend upon their wealth.  How different is that from little children, who are totally dependent on their parents. So Jesus is saying that the only way to enter the kingdom of God is with childlike trust and total dependence on God our heavenly Father. But what does he mean by entering the kingdom of God? That will become apparent as we now turn to verses 17-22:   17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good – except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honour your father and mother.'" 20 "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy." 21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." 22 At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.   17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" There are quite a few things we can admire about this young man's attitude. He's enthusiastic. He's respectful to Jesus. He asks a very important question. But what he says reveals a deep misunderstanding. This becomes clear as we read Jesus' answer.   18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good – except God alone. Jesus is implying two things here. First, since only God is good, to call Jesus good is to acknowledge his deity, something which Jesus does not deny. And secondly, he is saying that no-one is good enough to inherit eternal life. There's nothing you can do to achieve it. You can only enter the kingdom of God by total dependence on him and childlike trust in his love. But since the young man thinks he can achieve eternal life by doing good, Jesus says:   19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honour your father and mother.'"   To which the young man replies: Teacher, all these I have kept since I was a boy (20).   We wonder if the young man was hoping that this would be enough, but Jesus makes clear that it is not. He loves this young man, but love does not hide the truth. He says:   21 One thing you lack. Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me. Preaching the gospel involves pointing out that people have a need and then showing them how that need can be met. What was the one thing this young man lacked? Not the selling of everything he had, but the childlike dependence on God that would enable him to do so. And so we read that 22 He went away sad, because he had great wealth. The wealth of this world deprived him of the treasure in heaven that Jesus so wanted him to have.   And finally, before we move on to verses 23-27, please notice that throughout this passage entering the kingdom of God refers to having eternal life in heaven. The rich young ruler asks what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus shows him the way to have treasure in heaven  and comments to his disciples that it hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. But that brings us to verses 23-27:   23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" 24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." 26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?" 27 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."   23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" As we've already explained, there's nothing wrong with being in rich – most listeners to this podcast will be richer than 98% of the rest of the world's population – the problem arises when we put our trust in riches. God does not expect every Christian to sell all they have and give to the poor – though the early Christians in Acts certainly did so (Acts 2:45, 4:32) – but he does expect us to be willing to do so. Following Jesus means total commitment. We cannot serve God and money (Matthew 6:24).   24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." The disciples are amazed, but Jesus reemphasises what he is saying by using an extreme illustration. Various suggestions have been made about what he meant by a camel going through the eye of a needle. For example, in koine Greek the word for camel (kamelos) is almost identical to the word for rope (kamilos), so it's suggested that Jesus was actually referring to a piece of rope, which it is argued makes more sense. But Jesus' purpose is not to make sense. He is using hyperbole, extreme exaggeration to make his point. Remember how, when talking about not judging others, he uses the word plank to contrast with speck in Matthew 7:3-5. And the same goes for the idea that the ‘eye of a needle' was a reference to a small gate in the wall of Jerusalem through which camels found it difficult to pass. Both these suggestions water down the extreme emphasis Jesus is placing on what he is saying. 26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?" 27 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." The disciples' question is quite understandable. If entering the kingdom of God is as hard as Jesus is saying, how can anyone be saved? And now Jesus goes even further. Salvation, entry into the kingdom of God, is not just hard, it's impossible! At least, it's impossible with man, but it's not impossible with God. We saw earlier how, in calling Jesus good, the rich young ruler, without realising it, was actually implying that Jesus was God. Salvation would have been impossible for us, if it were not made possible by Jesus, who, because he was good enough to pay the price of sin, was able to unlock the gate of Heaven and let us in.   So far, we have seen that entering the Kingdom of God means being saved, receiving eternal life, and having treasure in Heaven. Jesus talks about the Kingdom of God belonging to little children (v14), and about it being received (v15). But the thing he mentions most is entering it. Putting all these things together we see that to enter the kingdom of God means to be saved, to receive eternal life, to know that you are going to Heaven, because the kingdom of God belongs to you because you have received it as a little child. And this is something that is only possible because of Jesus.  But in the final few verses of our passage we see the rewards that Jesus gives to those who follow him.   28 Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!" 29 "I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel 30 will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first."   28 Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!" Peter and his fellow fishermen had not given up as much as the rich young ruler was asked to give up. But they had left their means of livelihood and followed Jesus the moment he called them (Mark 1:16-19). It was not the forsaking of these things that earned them their salvation, for, as we have seen, salvation cannot be earned. What saved them was the childlike trust in Jesus that enabled them to do so. Nevertheless, there are abundant rewards for doing so, and this applies to all.   29-30 "I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields – and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.   The ultimate reward is eternal life in the age to come, but salvation brings its blessings down here. The blessings of the future kingdom are in some measure available now. Throughout the New Testament there is an eschatological tension between the present and future aspects of the kingdom of God. It's already, but not yet! But that's a subject for another time. There are abundant blessings in this present age, even if at times they come for some with persecution. I am reminded of what the writer to the Hebrews says talking of the heroes of faith: Others were tortured, and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:37).   In Heaven there are rewards for suffering for Christ and there are rewards for service, but our passage ends with the serious reminder that we may be surprised when we get to Heaven. Jesus says:   31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.   The standards of God's kingdom are not the standards of the world. It's the meek who will inherit the earth. It's those who humble themselves as a little child who will be the greatest in the kingdom of God (Matthew 18:4).   I'm so glad Jesus has made it possible for me to go to heaven. And I'm glad for the opportunities to serve him I've had down here. What little I have given up for him is nothing compared with the abundant blessings he continues to shower upon me. It's by his grace that we are saved. It's by his grace that we are privileged to serve him, and whatever blessings may be stored up for us in the age to come will only be ours because of that amazing grace. Lord, please help us to continue to trust you like a little child and to learn to live in total dependence upon you. Amen.

4/7/24 - Through a parable, Christ shows the unstoppable progress of God's Kingdom.

We overcome anxiety by trusting that God is one faithful Father who will provide. Matthew 6:25-34

Why should Christians be involved in government? Godly people engaged in government influence godly outcomes. Examples of Christians in government abound, including Joseph, Daniel, and Nehemiah, who brought godly outcomes even in ungodly governing systems. In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth. Because the Church is no longer “salty,” our society is decaying morally and spiritually. How can Christians be the salt of the earth? By seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). As Christians, our allegiance must first be to the Kingdom of God and the multi-ethnic family of God. If we seek the Kingdom of God first, we will think biblically, not merely politically. The Church needs to repent of political idolatry, compromise morally, and spiritual apathy. Only then will the Church again become “salty” – the moral conscience of society. Join Pastor Phil Hopper as he shares biblical examples of Christians in government and practical ways we can be “the salt of the earth” in politics. Don't forget to click the “bell” to SUBSCRIBE to get more videos like this to grow your faith! ● Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: / abundantlifelsInstagram: / abundantlifels ● Connect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: / philhopperkcInstagram: / philhopper_kcWeb: https://livingproof.co/about-us/pasto...● Be a part of the Great Commission: https://livingproof.co/irresistible/ More information on our sermons: https://livingproof.co/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://livingproof.co/ On Sunday, March 17, we will move to new service times across all of our campuses. Blue Springs, Independence, Lee's Summit, and online (livingproof.co/online) service times:7:45, 9:30, and 11:20 am Crossroads Campus service times:9:30 and 11:20 am Online (Facebook and YouTube)7:45 am #AbundantLife#Sermon#saltoftheearth#godandgovernment#christiansingovernment

There are no more significant questions that we should think about than ‘where we will spend eternity?' In this account Jesus gives us certainty as to how we can enter into his Kingdom.

Message - Pastor Paul I. Kim Sermon on the Church Series: III “G.O.A.T. in the Kingdom of God”  Matthew 18:1-9

“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” — Luke 6:20 The Bible says, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” We see it in Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol, where the love of money has closed off Scrooge's heart. And hasn't money shattered countless families throughout history?! Apparently the dangers of money increase as we get more of it. Because few of us can resist the seductions of wealth. We fall into a money trap. All we want is more. No wonder Jesus says, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:24). When we hear that, we may think Jesus is talking about salvation and warning that wealth gets in the way. Because, if nothing else, having a pile of money can make us feel immune from everything, even from the justice of God. But I think Jesus may have something more immediate in mind: living the way of God's kingdom here and now. Wealth can put the squeeze on us and keep us from living the way of God's kingdom. And, proportionally, people who have less tend to be more generous than people who have more. No wonder Jesus says to people who are poor, “Yours is the kingdom of God.” Their generosity already fits. Lord, “give me neither poverty nor riches” (Proverbs 30:8). Help me to trust your generosity enough to be generous like you. Amen.

It's only human nature to want to be first. That's why Jesus' admonition: “So the last will be first, and the first last” is so challenging.  In fact, just as an athlete practices to be first, so must the faithful follower of Jesus train to be last.  Listen to Fr. Jon's message to learn more.

The pages of sacred scripture are filled with “desperate” people turning to God for deliverance and salvation. By and large, these are the ones who experience the Lord's authority and power being released in their lives and churches.  If you're “desperate” enough, listen to Fr. Jon to discover more.

Rev. Amanda Golbek, Minister of Children & Youth

The Now and Coming Kingdom There is a Now and Coming Kingdom that is ruled by an Absolute Monarch who is 100% worthy to be loved and followed both now and forevermore. Those who receive Him become His eternally blessed subjects! Read Acts 1:1-11 The Now and Coming Kingdom Let's Pray! Today we look at the teaching Jesus did over 40 days between His resurrection and His ascension to Heaven. 10 days after that would be the Feast of Pentecost. Jesus' Post-Resurrection teaching of His disciples V. 1-3 Why didn't Jesus appear to unbelievers over those 40 days? Because God never rewards pride & unbelief with divine knowledge; He rewards humility & faith. Now what do you need to have a Kingdom? You need a King; you need subjects; and you need a realm being governed. There is clearly a now and not yet feature to the Kingdom of God verses. Christ is already reigning spiritually in Heaven and on earth among those who follow Him. One day in the future He will reign physically over the world from Israel (Rev. 20). Churches today are like Kingdom embassies in the world. Characteristics of God's Kingdom: The Kingdom of God is all about God's presence (Matt. 3:2; 4:17). You must be born again to experience the Kingdom of God (John 3:3). You must repent to experience the Kingdom of God (Matthew 4:17). You must humble yourself before God like a little child in childlike trust to be converted and experience the Kingdom of God (Matt. 18:3-4; Matt. 5:3). Jesus said experiencing the Kingdom is worth giving up everything you possess for what you gain in Him (Matthew 13:44-45). Doing and teaching God's commands make you great in the Kingdom; not doing God's will may mean your faith is fraudulent (Matt. 5:19; 7:21). We are to put His Kingdom interests and doing right(eous) things ahead of our own interests and needs (Matthew 6:33). We are to pray for Christ's Kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven. (Matthew 6:10). Jesus gives His believing subjects the “Keys of the Kingdom” to bind and loose things in His name (Matthew 16:19). Jesus guaranteed this Kingdom would expand throughout the earth (Matthew 13). Jesus said the good news of this kingdom will be preached throughout the world before the end (of the present age) comes (Matthew 24:14). Jesus said His Kingdom will involve many from “east and west” we didn't anticipate being His (Matt. 8:12), including those who had been “tax collectors and prostitutes (Matt. 21:31). Paul taught the Kingdom was particularly characterized by righteousness, joy, and peace in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Paul made clear the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom (1 Cor. 6:9-11) unless they have been washed and justified by Jesus. Paul made clear that at the moment of salvation believers are transferred from Satan's domain to the King's Dominion (Col. 1:13). Paul and John both spoke of being fellow workers for this Kingdom (Col. 4:11; Rev. 1:9). Jesus' promise of Holy Spirit power to His disciples V. 4-8 As a Christian I have found waiting on God's timing very hard. But I have also found acting in the flesh before God okays acting has cost me dearly. Do you get what Jesus is saying? Disciples, you are to enthusiastically expect Christ to return and rule, but not become overly focused on the timing of the details. You are instead to focus on reaching the nations for Christ, beginning with where you are! Jesus' ascension to Heaven V. 9-11

There's a way of playing safe, there's a way of using tricks and there's the way I like to play, which is dangerously, where you're going to take a chance on making mistakes in order to create something you haven't created before—Dave Brubeck, jazz pianist.I. Christianity and CultureA. Case study: jazz and Lutheran Pastor Smith1. Jazz and worldliness2. Abstention from jazz3. Restoration to jazzB. Creation mandate (Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 8)C. The fall (Genesis 3; Romans 3)D. Christians in culture1. Reject and condemn; identify the fall (1 John 2:15-17)2. Affirm, conserve; recognize common grace (Philippians 4:8)3. Redeem, transform; extend the kingdom of God (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8). See Andy Crouch, Culture Making4. Culture care: a. Tending the garden (Genesis 2). See Makato Fujimura, Mark Labberton, Culture Care (InterVarsity Press, 2017). b. Salt and light “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.5. Common grace: non-saving grace given to cultures and individuals. See work of Abraham KuyperII. What Is Jazz That We Should be Mindful of It?A. It is no longer a “jazz age”B. I do not mean “smooth jazz” (sickly pseudo-jazz)C. Origins: Africa, slave songs, New OrleansUniquely American art formD. Originators: Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll MortonE. Nature of jazz1. Swing: “It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing,” Duke Ellington 2. Syncopation: the offbeat as the right beat3. Improvisation: “Chops” developed through “time in the woodshed”4. Collaboration: “big ears”5. Mastering tradition: “standards”6. Virtuoso soloists: Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Pat Martino7. Jazz culture in Denver1. Jazz studies at Metro State, directed by Ron Miles, a trumpeter and Christian2. Dazzle Jazz: Jazz most days of the week and national acts about 3-4 times a monthF. Receiving jazz for what it is. 1. See C.S. Lewis, An Experiment in Criticism on “receiving,” not “using”2. Behold and receive: John Coltrane, “Alabama”III. How Jazz Can Shape Christian WitnessA. “Time in the woodshed” means developing your chopsDo your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.—2 Timothy 2:15B. ImprovisationC. “Call and response”—dialogue Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord—Acts 19:8-10D. Syncopation: “the sound of surprise” (Whitney Balliet) Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a... Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.