Participate in Christ’s Mission

God sent Christ to extend His kingdom.

God desired to extend the borders of His kingdom. He did this by sending His only Son, Jesus Christ the Messiah, on a mission to the earth. How did the Father accomplish this mission through Jesus?

Jesus died on the cross to enable fallen man to enter into His kingdom.

1) Entering God’s Kingdom

We cannot enter God’s kingdom through our own efforts of being good or trying to help others. Instead we need to see our rebellious hearts and actions. It is then we ask God for forgiveness through Jesus.

This gospel message needs to be proclaimed all around the world. We see this is what Jesus and His disciples did.

To these He (Jesus) also presented Himself alive, after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days, and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God. (Acts 1:3)

You became an example to all believers...for the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you... so that we have no need to say anything. (1 Thessalonians 1:7-8)

Circle the ‘kingdom of God.’ By telling others of the king and the kingdom of God, people can know how to be part of His people.

2) Carry Out Christ’s Commands

The teaching of the kingdom of God goes far beyond learning how to get into His kingdom. The Scriptures (Bible) also explain God’s comprehensive plan on how we are to fit into it.

Although Christ could do a great job finishing this mission, the Father decided to complete it by involving His children. Each Christian is responsible to actively support God’s plan to expand His kingdom of love into all the world. This is true of our neighborhood, town, country and other societies.

Notice how Jesus tells us to pray in Matthew 6:10,“Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” We must take active steps to carry out the expansion of His kingdom. Telling others of the gospel is one significant way.

Application:

1) Meaningfully pray Matthew 6:10 each day this week. Pause afterwards. Ask the Lord if there is a way you can do it that very day. Listen and watch to see if the Lord prompts you with any opportunities.

2) Ask God to bring someone that you can share the gospel with. Be attentive to whom the Lord brings into your path. Take up the opportunity!