Big Idea: At the heart of Jesus’ ministry was establishing the kingdom of God. This he does first and foremost by working righteousness in his people. As God’s people are conformed into his image the righteousness of his kingdom spreads forth through the nations.
The _________________________ Nature of the Curse on Humanity
Luke 4:40 (ESV) — 40 Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them.
What we see in our world today is that the curse of sin has devastated the nature and image of God upon humanity and creation.
Mark 1:33 (ESV) — 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door.
Jesus responds to the people by informing them of his primary purpose. The kingdom of God is not only about healing physical disease.
Luke 9:25 (ESV) — 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?
The _________________________ Nature of God’s Blessing to Humanity
Luke 4:43 (ESV) — 43 but he said to them, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose.”
The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus’ preaching and the central tenet of the good news that Jesus’ brings. What is it about the kingdom idea that helps us understand what Jesus means by preaching the good news of the kingdom?
Kingdom Distinctive #1: Every kingdom has a _______________________.
There is one, and only one King. And Jesus is that King.
Kingdom Distinctive #2: Every King determines the _____________ of his kingdom.
Proverbs 29:2 (NKJV) — 2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.
The good news of the kingdom of God is that the good King has come, and the nature of the good King determines the nature of the kingdom.
Psalm 45:6-7; 72:1-4; Isaiah 9:6-7; Jeremiah 23:5-6
Psalm 89:14 (ESV) — 14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
There is nothing that Jesus says or does that is contrary to his nature. All of his ways are good and all of his providences right.
Hebrews 5:8–9 (ESV) — 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him…
Kingdom Distinctive #3: Every kingdom has a __________________, and those people begin to reflect that nature of the King.
Question to Consider:
What are the hardships you are going through right now that are conforming you into the image of the good and righteous King?
