Sermon July 19
Mark 1:14-28
Albert Einstein is known for the Theory of Relativity and the equation E= MC 2. Because of these discoveries we have nuclear energy and we have landed men on the moon. Applied knowledge can be very powerful. But Einstein’s breakthroughs cannot heal broken relationships or keep people from dying. It’s powerful. But its power is limited in solving you life’s greatest problems. Most Christians don’t know any more about the Kingdom of God than about the Theory of Relativity. They say, as long as scientists understand Relativity and Pastors understand The Kingdom of God, I’m good. Jesus came for the PURPOSE OF EXPLAINING AND INVITING US TO EXPERIENCE THE KINGDOM OF GOD. The applied knowledge of God’s Kingdom can fix relationships and can keep you from dying. This is the most powerful truth you could ever grasp ahold of. The Gospel of Mark was given so you can understand and apply these truths! The Kingdom of God is the People of God, coming under the will of God, producing the peace of God which is Shalom; everything as it should be. How do I get it? REPENT (submit to the Will of God) and BELIEVE (walk in the Will of God). This means turning from self-will and living in right relationship with God. Trust Him. Obey Him. If you do, you will experience His goodness. SCARCITY MINDSET. Kingdom of this world says, “how can I make this a win for me?” “There’s not enough to go around so I have to get mine for me and my loved ones.” ABUNDANCE MINDSET. Kingdom of God says, “there are no losers. Everyone wins in the Kingdom of God.” “God is my provider and He will give me everything I need.” I can be generous with others and at peace with my own needs. Why did the crowd miss? Their mindset was SCARCITY. They identified Jesus as someone who could help them get what they wanted. They wanted to use Jesus not trust Jesus.
Discussion Questions
- How does the definition of the Kingdom of God above align with your own understanding of the Kingdom of God? How does it help bring clarity to a difficult concept?
- What is the difference between the statements: a) Jesus came to die for sinners AND b) Jesus came to reveal the Kingdom of God? Compare and contrast the difference in these two teachings?
- What are the implications for your life when you consider the entire statement: “The Kingdom of God is the People of God coming under the Will of God and producing the Peace of God which is Shalom; everything as it should be.”
