The Mystery of the Kingdom of God

Did you know the Kingdom God is in your midst? Check out Luke 17:20-21: The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst. Prophets from Old Testament times longed to see the Kingdom of God revealed (Matthew 13:17). Jesus told several parables to reveal the mystery about His kingdom. One of them was the parable of the sower. A farmer scattered seed. Some fell along the path and the birds ate it up. Some fell on rocks where there was not much soil. The sun scorched them and they withered. Other seed fell among thorns, which choked the plants. Other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a good crop, 100, 60, or 30 times what was sown. . . Here is the meaning: The seed that fell on the path was snatched up by the evil one because of the lack of understanding. Although the seed that fell on rocky ground was received with joy, it lasted only a short time because it had no root. The seed that fell among thorns was choked like the worries of this life or the deceitfulness of wealth can cause a person not to produce fruit. The seed that fell on good soil is like a person who hears the word, understands, and multiplies it (Matthew 13).

Think About It
God surprises us with two stages of His coming. One is in the present and one is in the future. He equips the people who believe and understand what He says about His Kingdom so they can live in it today. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14-16), and, "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to keep my commands" (Matthew 28:19-20). As believers, we can shine God's light into a dark world. God gives us joy, peace and victory over anxiety and fear (the devil). He empowers us with the sword of the Spirit, His word, and confidence to live in the reality of His presence today and the reality of a future time when we will see Him face to face.

Pray About It
Thank you, Holy Father, for the awesome hope of spending eternity with you. Strengthen us to live in the midst of your Kingdom today and to share your truth so others will come to know you in a personal way. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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