“If the kingdom of God is not observable, how can we know if we are in the proximity of the kingdom of God? Jesus teaches a lot about that. There is a way to determine if God’s kingdom is present and active…
Luke 11:20 (NIV)
20 But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
People came to Jesus with all kinds of oppressions and afflictions and Jesus frees them…When people are freed from oppression that is a mark that the kingdom of God is real, that the kingdom of God is within our midst. When people are delivered from darkness that is a sign that the kingdom of God is active and present.
Luke 10:9 (NIV)
9 Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
Jesus sends out his disciples to heal, and he says when healing happens make sure the people understand that’s a sign that the kingdom has come. So when we pray for one another and healing comes…understand that the kingdom of God has come near you.” [Adapted from P. Ed’s message]
Prayer: Father, thank you that you have set us free and healed us. We recognize your kingdom present and active among us in these ways. We ask you to use us this season to heal, set people free, and to preach the kingdom of God that has come. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Let’s anticipate God’s kingdom coming near as we sing “Open the Gates” by Vertical Worship (click here).
-KW
