When Jesus of Nazareth first appeared in Galilee, he proclaimed the “Kingdom of God” – “Repent, for the kingdom is at hand.” In his ministry, God’s reign began to invade the earth. But his realm was and is of an entirely different nature than the political systems of the present age.
And on more than one occasion, Jesus refused THAT kind of political power, especially when it was offered by Satan in the wilderness who offered him “all the kingdoms of the world.”
Continue readingHis disciples are called to lives of self-sacrificial service for others, just as Jesus gave his life a ransom for many – Mark 10:35-45.
After predicting his trial and execution, the disciples jockeyed for position in Christ’s reign over his kingdom. In words and deeds, he taught them previously that kingdom citizenship means a life of self-sacrificial service to others. But as he approached Jerusalem, even his closest followers demonstrated a very different vision of what it meant to “rule” over others in his domain.
Continue readingThe mission of the church between now and the return of Jesus is to announce the Good News of his Kingdom to all men.
Jesus tasked his church with announcing his gospel to all nations. The New Testament summarizes his message as the “good news of the Kingdom of God.” In him, God’s rule over the earth is being established, though often in unexpected and paradoxical ways. By the time Christ returns, he will have established total sovereignty over the nations and subjugated all His “enemies,” especially the “last enemy,” death.
Continue readingIn his epistle to the Romans, Paul lays stress on the “righteousness of God” revealed in the gospel preached by him – It is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” And the same message is now being proclaimed throughout the earth to “Jew and Greek” alike. By “righteousness of God” Paul refers to HIS “righteousness,” demonstrated daily in His faithful provision of salvation for His wayward creatures.
Continue reading“HE changes times and seasons, HE removes kings, HE sets up kings.”
Far too often, church leaders exhort us to work diligently to elect politicians and pass laws of which they approve, claiming it is God’s will and warning of the dire consequences that will befall us if we fail to do so. Believers must fight tooth and nail for their chosen candidates and programs! But chosen by whom?
Continue reading
Disciples Global Network 