How does seeking Jesus relate to Matthew 6:33 about prioritizing God's kingdom? Setting the Scene: Matthew 6:33 in Context “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) Jesus speaks these words in the Sermon on the Mount, right after teaching about worry over food, drink, and clothing. He redirects His listeners from anxiety to allegiance—urging them to place God’s reign at the top of every priority list. Who the King Is, and Why That Matters • A kingdom always centers on a king. Scripture identifies Jesus as that King (Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 19:16). • To seek God’s kingdom, therefore, means to seek the rule and will of Jesus in daily life. • His righteousness is not abstract morality; it is the perfect righteousness Jesus both embodies (2 Corinthians 5:21) and bestows on those who believe (Romans 3:22). Seeking Jesus = Seeking the Kingdom 1. Jesus is the doorway to the kingdom. • “Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3) • Receiving Him by faith ushers us into His realm (Colossians 1:13). 2. Jesus embodies kingdom values. • His teachings (Matthew 5–7) outline kingdom ethics. • Walking with Him aligns our hearts with those values. 3. Jesus reigns at God’s right hand now. • “Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:7) • Every act of obedience to Him advances His rule in our circles of influence. 4. His presence supplies righteousness. • We cannot manufacture holiness; we receive it by abiding in Him (John 15:4-5). • Putting Him first means trusting His finished work rather than our own efforts. Practical Ways to Seek Jesus First • Begin each day in His Word—letting His voice set the agenda (Psalm 119:105). • Speak with Him continuously, not only in set prayer times (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Filter decisions through “What honors Christ as King in this moment?” • Invest talents, resources, and relationships in causes that proclaim the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). • Resist worry by rehearsing His promises (Philippians 4:6-7). • Pursue holiness, knowing He supplies strength to obey (Hebrews 12:14). • Prefer eternal reward over temporary applause (Colossians 3:1-4). Promises Attached to Prioritizing Jesus • Provision: “All these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) • Peace: Trusting His rule displaces anxiety (John 14:27). • Purpose: Life gains focus when centered on His kingdom mission (Acts 1:8). • Fruitfulness: Abiding in Him produces lasting fruit (John 15:5). • Inheritance: “The one who does the will of My Father…will enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 7:21) Key Takeaways • Seeking the kingdom is inseparable from seeking its King, Jesus. • Prioritizing Him means pursuing His presence, obeying His commands, and depending on His righteousness. • As we do, God promises to supply every need, anchor our hearts in peace, and use us to extend His reign. |
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