1. In our study of God's promise to establish His kingdom, we have: a. examined prophecies from the Old and New Testaments that relate to its establishment b. shown from the fulfillment of these prophecies that it was established in Jerusalem on Pentecost (Acts 2) c. shown that Jesus is presently reigning over it at the Father's right hand in heaven d. pointed out from 1 Corinthians 15:20-26 that Jesus will deliver it to the Father when He returns. 2. Matters pertaining to God's kingdom are so important that they were addressed by such great teachers as: a. Jesus (Acts 1:3) b. Philip (Acts 8:12) c. Paul (Acts 19:8). 3. In this lesson we are considering some additional matters that are revealed in the Bible.
Discussion:
I. THE BIBLE IDENTIFIES THOSE WHO WILL ENTER GOD'S KINGDOM
A. 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, a person must: 1. be "poor in spirit" (Matthew 5:3) as illustrated by the publican (Luke 18:13) 2. be "converted" (Matthew 18:1-4; 19:13-14) 3. be "born again" (John 3:3,5) 4. be "translated" [transferred] into it (Colossians 1:13-14; 2:12-13; Acts 2:47).
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).
