Lecture Notes: Understanding the Kingdom of God

Introduction to the Kingdom

• Jesus taught the disciples how to pray: "Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
• The kingdom of God is the place of citizenship for believers.
• Kingdom is both present and future: "The kingdom is at hand."
• It's a literal reality, not just a sensational concept.

Nature of the Kingdom

• Kingdom is where Jesus is; He lives within us, providing intimacy and relationship.
• Holy Spirit on us allows us to demonstrate the Father's essence.
• Kingdom must be declared and demonstrated.

Demonstrating the Kingdom

• Not only with words but with actions: raising the dead, healing the sick, etc.
• Kingdom is the justice of God and a display of His love.
• Spirit of adoption leads people from bondage to freedom.

Attributes of the Kingdom

• According to Romans 14:17, the kingdom is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
  • Righteousness: Right relationship with God and others.
  • Peace: Shalom, bringing peace to humanity, ensuring nothing is broken or lacking.
  • Joy: Supernatural, fruit of the Spirit, bringing joy into places of darkness.

Role of Believers

• Revival and reformation come from intimacy with God, not just activity or strategy.
• The gospel of the kingdom is faith and works.
• Believers should demonstrate the kingdom with love as the motivation.

Application and Reflection

• Ask the Holy Spirit: "How am I to bring the kingdom?"
• Wisdom comes from asking the right questions about how to express the heart of God.
• Everything should be motivated by love to demonstrate the love of the Father.

Conclusion

• Intimacy and relationship with God are key to demonstrating the kingdom.
• Engage with the Holy Spirit to understand your role in expressing the kingdom's power and authority.