LIVING FOR THE KINGDOM IS...living a life that embraces a set of core principles that stand in stark contrast to the values of the world. These include:
Seeking God's Righteousness First: "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." We prioritize a deep, personal relationship with God and a commitment to His standards of justice and moral purity above all other earthly concerns.
A Life of Repentance and Faith: Entry into the kingdom begins with repentance—a turning away from self-centeredness and sin—and faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This initial step is not a one-time event but an ongoing posture of the heart, continually realigning one's life with God's will.
Love as the Supreme Ethic: Jesus summarized the entirety of the law in two great commandments: to love God and to love one's neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). This selfless, sacrificial love is the defining characteristic of a kingdom citizen and should be the motivating force behind all our actions.
Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Spirit: The Apostle Paul describes the kingdom as not being a matter of external observances, but of "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17). Kingdom living, therefore, is an internal reality that manifests externally through a life of moral integrity, relational harmony, and a deep-seated joy that transcends circumstances.
A Counter-Cultural Value System: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) provides a blueprint for kingdom living, outlining a value system that is often at odds with the world. It champions humility over pride, mercy over judgment, and service over self-interest.
