Seek Ye First The Kingdom
Welcome to a transformative journey of understanding and embracing the Kingdom of God as the pivotal priority in the life of every believer. In a world teeming with distractions, responsibilities, and ambitions, it’s essential to pause and reflect on what truly matters – the eternal reign of our Creator. The Kingdom of God isn’t merely a distant concept; it’s a reality that beckons us to realign our focus, to reorder our steps, and to reshape our lives.
The Kingdom Is A Priority To Jesus
As followers of Christ, we are called to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). But what does this truly mean? Why is it more than a theological doctrine or an abstract idea? Join us as we embark on a compelling exploration of the Kingdom’s significance – a journey that will illuminate its unending relevance and transformative power in every aspect of our lives.
Throughout history, the message of the Kingdom has echoed through the teachings of Jesus, the passion of the apostles, and the testimonies of countless believers. It’s a message that transcends cultural boundaries, societal norms, and personal preferences. It’s a message that reveals the heart of God, His redemptive plan, and His unshakeable sovereignty.
And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.
Mathew 4:23
The King and His Kingdom
“And behold… bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus… of His kingdom there will be no end.” – Luke 1:31-33
At the heart of our understanding lies the King Himself, Jesus Christ. He came not just as a Savior, but as the embodiment of an everlasting Kingdom. His rule is without end, surpassing all earthly dominions. As we embrace this truth, we open our hearts to the transformative power of His Kingdom in every facet of our existence.
The Kingdom of Heaven is “At Hand”
“In those days John the Baptist…” – Matthew 3:1-2
“Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying…” – Mark 1:14-15
The message resounds: the Kingdom of God is at hand. John the Baptist and Jesus proclaimed its nearness, urging us to prepare our hearts for its arrival. Let us recognize that this proclamation is as relevant today as it was then. The Kingdom’s influence is available to us, shaping our actions, decisions, and interactions.
A Priority to Jesus!
“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.” – Matthew 4:23
“But He [Jesus] said to them, ‘I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.'” – Luke 4:43
Jesus set an unwavering example by prioritizing the Kingdom of God. His ministry was characterized by teaching, preaching, and healing—all to showcase the Kingdom’s reality. When we follow His example, the Kingdom becomes the lens through which we view our purpose and mission, both personally and collectively.
Pray This Way
“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name…” – Matthew 6:9-13
Our prayer life itself reflects the priority of the Kingdom. In the Lord’s Prayer, we petition for God’s Kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. This prayer unveils the alignment of our hearts with God’s ultimate purpose.
Jesus’ Example and Lifestyle
“Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.” – Matthew 9:35
Step into Jesus’ footsteps, walking in His path of teaching, preaching, and healing. By doing so, we align ourselves with the heartbeat of the Kingdom, becoming vessels through which its transformative power touches lives.
This is just the beginning of our journey into understanding the priority of the Kingdom of God. Through exploration and application, we unearth the treasures of a life lived under His reign. Let’s continue this voyage together, embracing the Kingdom’s rule in our lives, our families, our workplaces, and our communities.
More Resources!
Download the Kingdom Priority outline!
Frequently asked questions
What is The Kingdom of Heaven?
The Kingdom of Heaven is the divine realm of God’s rule, characterized by His perfect sovereignty, righteousness, and glory, where His will is fully realized and His presence is unfiltered; it represents the ultimate culmination of God’s redemptive plan, inviting believers into a dynamic relationship with Him, transforming hearts, societies, and creation itself, and offering the promise of eternal life in His loving presence.
How can I help establish the Kingdom of God on earth?
Establishing the Kingdom of God on earth begins with a heart committed to living out the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ. Embrace a life of love, compassion, and humility, mirroring Christ’s character in your interactions with others. Prioritize prayer and seek God’s guidance in all decisions, allowing His will to shape your choices. Engage in acts of justice, mercy, and service, working to alleviate suffering and bring positive change to your community. Share the Gospel with authenticity, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ’s message through your own life. Foster unity among believers, collaborating to create a community that reflects the values of the Kingdom. Strive for personal holiness and continuous growth in faith, allowing the Holy Spirit to refine your character. Ultimately, by embodying the teachings of Christ in your daily life and influencing those around you, you contribute to the establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth.
Does the Kingdom of God just mean Heaven?
No. The terms “Kingdom of God” and “Kingdom of Heaven” are often used interchangeably in Christian teachings, but they can carry slightly different nuances. Both refer to the realm where God’s rule, authority, and sovereignty are fully realized, and where His will is the guiding principle.
In the Gospels, Jesus frequently used the term “Kingdom of Heaven” in the Gospel of Matthew, while “Kingdom of God” is found in the other Gospels, like Mark and Luke. Some scholars suggest that the use of “Kingdom of Heaven” in Matthew might reflect the Jewish reverence for the divine name, as “heaven” was sometimes used to avoid directly saying “God.”
Overall, whether referred to as the “Kingdom of God” or the “Kingdom of Heaven,” the concept remains the same: it represents the ultimate reality where God’s reign is fully established, both in the present spiritual sense within believers’ hearts and in the future when God’s ultimate plan is fulfilled.