How can we prepare for the fulfillment of God's kingdom as described here? Seeing the Kingdom in Power—Mark 9:1 “Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God having come with power.” (Mark 9:1) Jesus promised that a tangible display of God’s kingdom would break into human history while some of His first disciples were still alive. The Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8) and the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2) both fulfilled this word. Because Scripture is true and unfailing, the same kingdom that burst forth then will one day come in its final fullness (Revelation 11:15). Preparing now is both urgent and joyful. Why Preparation Still Matters Today • The kingdom has already come in Christ (Luke 17:21) yet awaits final consummation (1 Corinthians 15:24). • Citizens of that kingdom are called to live under its authority now (Philippians 3:20). • Our present choices echo into eternity (2 Peter 3:11-12). Live Under Christ’s Reign Now • Receive the King: “Repent and believe the gospel!” (Mark 1:15). • Submit daily: “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34). • Seek His priorities: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33). Welcome the Holy Spirit’s Power • Promise fulfilled: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” (Acts 1:8). • Ongoing filling: “Be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18). • Kingdom fruit: “The kingdom of God is…righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17). Practice Daily Obedience and Holiness • Pursue purity: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16). • Do the Father’s will: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom… but only he who does the will of My Father.” (Matthew 7:21). • Endure faithfully: “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” (Acts 14:22). Invest in Kingdom Priorities • Serve others: “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35). • Share the gospel: “We are ambassadors for Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Store treasure in heaven: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:20-21). Stay Watchful and Hopeful • Live alert: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” (Matthew 24:42). • Encourage one another: “Let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Hold fast to the promise: “Since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude.” (Hebrews 12:28). Key Takeaways at a Glance • Enter the kingdom by faith in Christ. • Walk in Spirit-empowered obedience. • Align your values, time, and resources with eternal priorities. • Stay vigilant and hopeful as you await the kingdom’s glorious completion. Through hearts surrendered to Jesus, we taste even now the power the disciples first glimpsed—and we look eagerly for the day when that power fills the earth. |
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