In what ways can we "enter the kingdom of God" with spiritual integrity? Opening Verse John 3:5: “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.’” What The Kingdom Is • More than a future destination—God’s present rule in hearts (Luke 17:21). • Entering it brings citizenship under Christ’s authority (Colossians 1:13). New Birth: The Essential Doorway • “Born of water and the Spirit” points to cleansing from sin and a Spirit-given new life (Ezekiel 36:25-27). • Integrity begins with surrender, not self-improvement—regeneration is God’s work (Titus 3:5). Repentance And Faith: Genuine Response • Mark 1:15: “Repent and believe in the gospel.” • Turning from sin and trusting Christ happen together; spiritual integrity refuses half-hearted allegiance (Acts 26:20). Childlike Humility • Mark 10:15: “Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” • Simplicity, dependence, and teachability guard against pride and hypocrisy. Obedience: Proof Of The New Birth • Matthew 7:21: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” • Integrity shows up in everyday choices—doing the Father’s will, not merely talking about it (James 1:22). Perseverance Through Trials • Acts 14:22: “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” • Hardship tests motives; pressing on displays authentic faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). Walking In The Spirit Daily • Romans 8:13-14: “If you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” • Ongoing Spirit-led living maintains integrity—fleshly patterns betray kingdom life. Summary List: Ways We Enter With Integrity • Experience the new birth by the Spirit. • Repent of sin and place wholehearted faith in Christ. • Cultivate childlike humility and dependence. • Live out obedience that matches professed belief. • Persevere through hardship, trusting God’s sovereignty. • Walk daily by the Holy Spirit, rejecting fleshly desires. “Therefore, brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:10-11) |
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