Signposted
Signposted
It’s a grand truth that the kingdom of God has been signposted for all humanity. Jesus began his ministry announcing “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15).
Today’s passage draws us near to the reality of God’s Kingdom and what an awesome one it is! The rise and fall of kingdoms such as the Babylonian, Roman and Greek kingdoms tell a story about the “success” of the kingdoms of men. Daniel captures this in his interpretation of a dream of the Babylonian King, Nebuchadnezzar, informing him that his kingdom was but one of a series of mighty kingdoms that would all fall. God would set up an eternal kingdom that would never be destroyed, “it will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, it will itself endure forever” (Daniel 2:44). God’s intent was to humble the King to know that despite the powerful and impressive dimensions of His super kingdom the reality stood that it was finite, and akin to all works of men, it stood under the judgement of God.
In today’s section of Mathew 13, Jesus shares several parables that give us an insight into the everlasting kingdom of God. The parable of the sower highlights again the need to set aright our priorities – an understanding of, and faith in, the gospel must take priority in one’s life; this is our access to King Jesus’s everlasting kingdom. Jesus’s parables of the growth of both the tiny mustard seed and leaven illuminates the reality that although the kingdom at hand was obscure and unassuming (Jesus a Nazarene carpenter) it would become unmistakable and advance to reign over the entirety of all creation forever!
What marvellous joy it is to know that as a disciple of Jesus you have been granted citizenship in the only Kingdom that lasts! Rejoice today as you think about this truth and ask Him to speak to you about how He can use you today for His awesome purposes (advancing His kingdom reign).
Mike Ikwuagwu
