How can believers live as citizens of Jesus' kingdom in a secular world? Rooted in John 18:36 “Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is not of this realm.’” Living in Two Realms • Jesus’ words acknowledge two spheres: the present earthly order and His spiritual reign already breaking in (Luke 17:21). • Believers stand with one foot in each realm—physically here, spiritually under Christ’s rule (Colossians 1:13). • The present world shapes circumstances, yet the true King shapes convictions. Remember Where Your Citizenship Lies • “Our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). • Earthly passports are temporary; heavenly citizenship is eternal (Ephesians 2:19). • Identity flows from belonging to Christ, not from political party, culture, or nation. Submit to Earthly Authorities Without Compromising Kingdom Loyalty • God establishes governing authorities (Romans 13:1). • Submission is “for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13-16), demonstrating the orderliness of God’s kingdom. • When earthly demands collide with divine commands, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). • Respect rulers, pay taxes, pray for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2), but reserve worship for Christ alone. Display Kingdom Values Daily • Beatitudes shape conduct—humility, mercy, peacemaking, purity (Matthew 5:3-12). • Love enemies and bless persecutors (Matthew 5:44-45). • Let integrity shine so others “see your good works and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16). • The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) advertises the kingdom better than any slogan. Advance the Kingdom Through Gospel Witness • “We are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Speak the message of reconciliation: forgiveness through the cross (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Live hospitably so conversations about Jesus feel natural (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Use gifts—service, teaching, generosity—to build up fellow citizens (1 Peter 4:10-11). Resist Worldly Compromise • “Do not love the world or anything in the world” (1 John 2:15-17). • Guard mind and body from cultural idols—materialism, sensuality, self-exaltation (Romans 12:2). • Keep oneself “unstained by the world” while engaging it in love (James 1:27). • Spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) equips citizens to stand firm amid secular pressures. Anchor Yourself in the Coming Kingdom • “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:1-4). • Present sufferings are momentary compared with eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • “Here we do not have an enduring city, but we are seeking the city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14). • Hope fuels perseverance, generosity, and courage until the King visibly reigns (Revelation 11:15). Putting It All Together • Know where you belong. • Honor the structures God ordained, yet pledge highest allegiance to Christ. • Let kingdom character infuse words, relationships, work, and civic life. • Proclaim the gospel with compassion and clarity. • Stand apart from sin while standing among sinners. • Fix your eyes on the coming day when the unseen kingdom becomes sight—and live today in its light. |
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