(33) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
The scripture is clear, when we seek God’s kingdom above all else, and live righteously, God provides everything we need. This means the kingdom of God comes into our lives. While we can be thankful for our earthly cultural heritage, God’s kingdom culture needs to become the priority.
Who Can Enter God’s Kingdom?
Read the following scriptures and write who can enter the Kingdom of God and why.
(15) People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them.
(16) But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
(17) Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
(9) Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
(23) Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
(24) The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!
(25) It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
(26) The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”
(27) Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
What Is God’s Kingdom Like?
What is God’s kingdom compared to and why do you think Jesus makes these comparisons?
(18) Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to?
(19) It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds perched in its branches.”
(20) Again he asked, “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to?
(21) It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.”
What Is God’s Kingdom About?
Describe what it’s about.
(20) Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed,
(21) nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”
(17) For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,
(20) For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.
(10) nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
How Do We Enter God’s Kingdom?
(15) “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
(17) He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.
(18) For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
(19) Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household,
Ask
- What are the benefits of living in God’s kingdom?
- If you were not already living in God’s kingdom would you like to be a part of it?
Application
- What challenges are you facing in your life right today?
- What truth from God’s word can you apply to your situation?
Prayer
Lord, thank you that I can be part of your kingdom. I pray your kingdom will come in greater measure on my life and on the earth as it is in heaven.
Key Verse
“Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need”