How can you actively "wait for the kingdom of God" in your community? Key Verse “Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent Council member who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, boldly went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus.” — Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathea: Waiting That Moves Joseph’s “waiting” was anything but passive. His faith produced visible, public action: • He stepped out of the shadows into the political spotlight. • He risked reputation and safety by identifying with a crucified Messiah. • He used his resources (influence, tomb, spices) to honor Jesus. Waiting for God’s kingdom shaped every choice he made in real time. What Active Waiting Looks Like Today • Expectant Faith: Live every day believing Christ will reign openly just as He reigns now in heaven (Luke 17:20-21). • Courageous Obedience: Make decisions that align with kingdom values even when costly (Acts 5:29). • Sacrificial Service: Offer time, skills, and possessions for gospel purposes (Romans 12:1-2). • Public Identification: Let neighbors know you belong to Jesus—words and deeds (Matthew 5:16). • Hope-Filled Perseverance: Endure setbacks without bitterness, knowing the King is coming (James 5:7-8). Practical Ways to Wait in Your Community • Volunteer where brokenness is obvious—food banks, crisis-pregnancy centers, foster care support. • Start or join a neighborhood Bible study; open your home like Joseph opened his tomb. • Speak truth graciously in local conversations about justice, life, marriage, and integrity. • Support missionaries and church plants that extend the kingdom’s reach. • Practice hospitality: share meals, celebrate wins, weep with those who weep (Romans 12:13-15). • Mentor younger believers; invest kingdom truths into the next generation (2 Timothy 2:2). • Pray regularly with other believers for revival and Christ’s return (Revelation 22:20). Scriptures That Fuel Active Waiting • Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” • Luke 12:35-37 — “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning… He will have them recline at the table and will come and serve them.” • Romans 14:17 — “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” • 2 Peter 3:11-12 — “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to and hasten the coming of the day of God.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 — “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together…” Living the Verse Joseph’s bold act at Calvary still echoes: the kingdom is worth every risk, every resource, every public stand. Embrace that same expectancy, and let your community glimpse the coming reign of Christ through the way you live today. |
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