A Friday morning in Jerusalem: a bored Pilate on his seat, and before him a beaten carpenter from Nazareth speaking of a kingdom unlike anything the Roman governor knows. This message follows the words “my kingdom is not of this world” (John 18) and shows why the church has always lost whenever it tried to build God’s kingdom the way the kingdoms of this world are built. The parables of the mustard seed, the leaven and the wedding feast reveal a kingdom that begins with small, unremarkable things and yet permeates everything. Listen, and see where the real battle for that kingdom is fought today, it is not where you would look for it.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- When Pilate asks Jesus whether He is the king of the Jews (John 18:33-37), Jesus says His servants do not fight for Him. What does this answer reveal about the nature of His rule?
- The speaker explains that the word "Christ" means the anointed one, that is, the king. How does this change the way you understand the name "Jesus Christ" and the prayer "Your kingdom come"?
- The parables of the mustard seed, the yeast hidden in flour, and the weeds among the wheat show a kingdom that is small, hidden and patient. Which of these images moves you most, and why?
- According to the sermon, the church lost its way whenever it spread the kingdom by worldly means: force, alliances with power, accumulating wealth. Where do you see that temptation today, including in your own life?
- The speaker says the real battle of the kingdom happens in the heart, and the Spirit of the risen King gives power to live like Him. How does the resurrection make sense of turning the other cheek and loving enemies?
- The sermon gives examples of the kingdom winning: forgiving your spouse, being generous, blessing those who make life hard at work. In what situation this week do you want to choose what pleases the King?
