Things that Pertain to the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:1-3)
Introduction:
1. As Luke introduced the book of Acts, he stated that the apostles saw Jesus after His resurrection for a period of 40 days. 2. During that time Jesus spoke to the apostles "of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God." 3. This morning we studied one of these things -- we showed from John 3 that the new birth is a requirement for entering the kingdom. 4. In this lesson we are considering some additional matters that are revealed in the Bible. 5. Let us begin by showing that . . .
Discussion:
I. THE BIBLE IDENTIFIES THOSE WHO WILL, AND WHO WILL NOT, ENTER GOD'S KINGDOM
A. The Scriptures teach that certain people will not be allowed to enter the kingdom. 1. Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 13:23-29 2. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 3. Galatians 5:19-21 B. To enter the kingdom, the Scriptures teach us: 1. to be "poor in spirit" (Matthew 5:3) as illustrated by the publican (Luke 18:13) 2. to be "converted" (Matthew 18:1-4; 19:13-14) 3. to be "born again" (John 3:3,5) 4. to be "translated" [transferred] into it (Colossians 1:13-14; 2:12-13; Acts 2:47). C. In addition to identifying those who will, and will not, enter God's kingdom, . . .
II. THE BIBLE REVEALS THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS OF GOD'S KINGDOM
A. In general, members of God's kingdom must submit to the will of the King. 1. Jesus is King (1 Timothy 6:15), and the New Testament is His Word (Hebrews 9:15). 2. Members of God's kingdom must know Jesus' Word and only say and do those things He authorizes (Colossians 3:16-17). B. Two specific matters include: 1. seeking God's kingdom "first" (Matthew 6:33) 2. serving others (Matthew 20:20-28; 25:34-40).
Conclusion:
1. There are many other "things pertaining to the kingdom of God" that are addressed in the Bible. 2. May God help us to search His Word carefully to learn these things and then to put them into practice! 3. Being a faithful member of God's kingdom will certainly matter on that great day when Jesus returns (1 Corinthians 15:24).
