January 1, 2010

"HAPPY NEW YEAR" OR "THY KINGDOM COME?"

Key Verse

"During the forty days after his crucifixion, he appeared to the apostles from time to time and proved to them in many ways that he was actually alive. On these occasions he talked to them about the Kingdom of God." (Acts 1:3 NLT)

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Central Truth

The book of Acts is a sequel to the Gospels and provides an historical account of the Kingdom of God advancing from a small group gathered in Jerusalem to the center of imperial power in Rome.

Reflections

“Happy New Year!” That’s what we say to one another to express our wish that friends might find happiness in 2010. According to a survey I read, nearly two-thirds of Americans think a “Happy New Year” is just that - wishful thinking. The majority of those surveyed believe that next year will NOT be better than last year. I guess that’s why they say, “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride!” 

I would like to propose a new, New Year’s greeting. It’s actually not a new phrase it just isn’t used much anymore. How about, “Thy Kingdom Come?” Sounds a little strange I know, but just think about how committed Jesus was to the Kingdom of God. He said it is the basis of repentance (Matt. 4:17). It is to be sought above all else – even happiness (Matt. 6:33). It is priceless (Matt. 13:44). It is to be our highest priority (Luk. 18:29-30). It is the purpose for His coming (Luk. 4:43). It was the first thing Jesus taught…and the last (Matt. 4:17/Acts 1:3). According to the first chapter of the book of Acts, Jesus returned to Galilee after His resurrection in order to teach “things concerning the kingdom of God” for a period of forty days. Jesus never really offered a clear definition of the kingdom but He described it in detail in many of His stories. The kingdom of God is His rule and reign over all the earth.
 
Jesus calls us as His disciples to announce His kingdom is coming and to create an alternative community which demonstrates for the world what the reign of God looks like. When we welcome people from all races and walks of life, when we love one another, when we stand for justice and righteousness in a world enamored with selfishness and decadence, we are demonstrating God’s rule in our lives. Is He your King? For now, God’s kingdom exists alongside a competing kingdom. But one day, at His Second Coming, the Kingdom will appear in all its fullness. And that’s not a wish, that’s a promise!

Discussion Questions

1. How would you describe the Kingdom of God?
2. How would you describe someone who, "seeks first the Kingdom of God"?
3. In Matt. 4:17, why is repentance the appropriate response to the realization that the Kingdom of God is at hand?

Comments

The views expressed under “Comments” are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Fellowship Bible Church.

  1. Michael Kirk John

    January 1, 2010 08:59 AM

    I like the theme of justice you presented. Appreciate your devotion. It is a rallying cry to launch us in to the New Year. Thank you.

  2. John Randall

    January 1, 2010 11:53 AM

    Gary, Thank you for reminding me to take the Love of Jesus and extend it all around me, to all. What a bright New Year - Thy will be done, John Randall

  3. Kevilyn

    January 4, 2010 08:50 PM

    I think this is something worth chewing on and I would really like to get into this study on the kingdom.. Im looking foward to it.. this was a great word pastor brandenburg

  4. Susan Mayes

    January 12, 2010 11:33 AM

    Gary, I very much enjoyed this morning. It has made me reflect on myself and how I need to be closer to the Lord. I love this devotion as we continue to grow closer to our Lord and live as he has taught us to do. Thank you.

  5. Barry

    January 19, 2010 10:23 AM

    This is all ways the right track for any year. Often when people ask me. What,s up ? I say the Kingdom of God. It has to be what,s up every day. It is present not something I am waiting for but living in. Fellowship with believers helps me do this. Fellowship un this study will also.

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Gary Brandenburg

Gary Brandenburg

Gary Brandenburg, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Dallas, grew up in California and stayed there long enough to find his wife, Jana. After fourteen years in Tyler, Gary and Jana came to Dallas in the Fall of 2004. They have two daughters, one son, and one granddaughter. In his spare time Gary practices the guitar in hopes that some day he and fellow-elders, Bruce Long and Bob Breunig, can take their band, "The Elder Statesmen," on the road! For booking information contact the church office - and the Elder Statesmen will see if they can learn a whole song!

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