How can we participate in God's work of "building up Jerusalem" today? The Verse in Focus “The LORD builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the exiles of Israel.” (Psalm 147:2) Jerusalem in God’s Big Picture - A literal city cherished by the LORD (2 Chronicles 6:6). - A prophetic centerpiece of future restoration (Isaiah 62:6-7). - A symbol of God’s redeemed people, “the heavenly Jerusalem” (Hebrews 12:22). - Ultimately fulfilled in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2). Why Our Participation Matters - God invites His people to labor with Him (1 Corinthians 3:9). - Blessing is promised to those who seek the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6-9). - Building up Jerusalem parallels building up Christ’s body (Ephesians 4:12-13). Practical Ways to Join the Work Today Pray with Purpose • Regularly “give Him no rest” for Jerusalem’s sake (Isaiah 62:6-7). • Intercede for spiritual awakening among Jewish people (Romans 10:1). • Ask the LORD to hasten the day of peace in the city (Psalm 122:6). Proclaim the Gospel • Share the good news “to the Jew first and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). • Support ministries bringing Scripture and Messiah’s message to Israel (Isaiah 52:7). • Live out a testimony that provokes “jealousy” leading to salvation (Romans 11:14). Practice Covenant Love • Stand against anti-Semitism; bless Israel as God’s chosen (Genesis 12:3). • Cultivate unity in the global church, reflecting “one new man” in Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). • Encourage Jewish and Gentile believers to serve together as “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5). Provide Tangible Support • Invest in humanitarian relief and development projects in Jerusalem (Isaiah 58:10-12). • Partner with local congregations for practical outreach (Galatians 6:10). • Sponsor Bible distribution and theological training in the land (Acts 19:20). Pursue Personal Holiness • Let the Spirit “build you up” so your life mirrors the city set on a hill (Matthew 5:14). • Guard your heart as God guards His city (Nehemiah 4:9). • Offer yourself daily as a tool for reconstruction, not ruin (2 Timothy 2:21). Living as Citizens of the Coming Jerusalem - Remember, “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). - Anticipate the day when “the dwelling of God is with men” (Revelation 21:3). - Until then, every act of prayer, witness, love, support, and holiness adds another “stone” to God’s ongoing project—building up Jerusalem in anticipation of its glorious completion. |
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