How can we apply the concept of "renew the kingdom" in our lives today? A Fresh Look at 1 Samuel 11:14 “Then Samuel said to the people, ‘Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingdom.’” What “Renew the Kingdom” Meant for Israel • The nation had just watched the Lord deliver them from the Ammonites (11:1-11). • “Renew” points to reaffirming Saul’s kingship under God’s direct rule—Israel publicly renewed its loyalty to God’s chosen order. • The ceremony at Gilgal echoed earlier covenant moments (Joshua 4–5), reminding the people that the throne exists only by God’s grace and for His purposes. Why Renewal Matters for Us • In Christ, we are “a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father” (Revelation 1:6). • Though the King never changes, our allegiance can drift; regular renewal keeps our hearts aligned with His reign. • Scripture calls believers to continual, conscious surrender: “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices… be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:1-2). Four Everyday Ways to Renew the Kingdom Today 1. Daily Coronation – Begin each morning acknowledging Jesus as King: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). – Verbally yield your schedule, priorities, and attitudes to His authority. 2. Covenant Obedience – Obey promptly in the small things (Luke 16:10). – Replace delayed obedience with decisive action: forgive, give, serve, speak truth. 3. Community Celebration – Gather with other believers for corporate worship and Lord’s Supper (Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 11:26). – Public praise resets personal focus and testifies that Christ rules here and now. 4. Kingdom Advancement – Share the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). – Seek justice and mercy in practical ways (Micah 6:8; James 1:27). – Every act that reflects the King’s character extends His influence. Guardrails for Genuine Kingdom Renewal • Avoid mere ceremony—God seeks hearts, not hollow rituals (Isaiah 29:13). • Keep the King central, not personal agendas (Colossians 1:18). • Measure success by faithfulness, not popularity or comfort (1 Corinthians 4:2). Scriptures to Anchor Your Week • Psalm 103:19 – “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” • Colossians 1:13 – “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son.” • Hebrews 12:28 – “Since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” |
    |