In what ways can we prepare for the kingdom of heaven's arrival? The Urgency of the Message Matthew 10:7: “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’” • “Near” is literal—God’s reign is breaking in; Christ will return bodily (Acts 1:11). • Because the King is at the door (James 5:8-9), preparation is not optional or delayed. Turn from Sin: Repentance • John the Baptist: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Matthew 3:2). • Genuine repentance involves: – Acknowledging sin as God defines it (1 John 1:9). – Forsaking it (Proverbs 28:13). – Producing fruit in keeping with repentance (Luke 3:8). Believe and Receive the King • Jesus requires personal faith: “The time is fulfilled… repent and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15). • Preparing means: – Trusting Christ’s finished work (Romans 10:9-10). – Being born again by the Spirit (John 3:3-5). – Submitting to His authority now (Luke 6:46). Align Life with Kingdom Values • Seek first His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). • Daily choices that display allegiance: – Pursuing holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). – Practicing justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). – Storing treasures in heaven rather than earth (Matthew 6:19-21). Spread the Announcement • Jesus sent the Twelve to preach; the mission continues (Matthew 28:18-20). • Preparation includes: – Sharing the gospel clearly (Romans 1:16). – Answering with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). – Living lives that commend the message (Philippians 2:15-16). Walk in Kingdom Power • The original commission paired proclamation with works of compassion (Matthew 10:8). • Today: – Pray for the sick (James 5:14-16). – Serve the needy (Galatians 6:10). – Expect God’s Spirit to confirm the word (Acts 4:29-31). Live with Eternal Priorities • Our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). • Prepare by: – Holding possessions lightly (1 Timothy 6:17-19). – Investing time in what endures—Scripture, people, worship (Colossians 3:1-4). – Enduring hardship for future reward (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Stay Watchful and Ready • Jesus: “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35-40). • Readiness looks like: – Regular self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). – Ongoing fellowship with believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Eager expectation—“Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Looking Forward with Confidence • Because we are “receiving an unshakable kingdom” (Hebrews 12:28), we prepare with reverent obedience and joyful anticipation. • “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come” (Revelation 19:7). The preparations we make today echo into that eternal celebration. |
    |