Scripture

“From the time John the Baptist started preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent men are attacking it.”

Observation

John the Baptist hears in prison about all the things the Messiah is doing. He sends messengers to ask Jesus, “Are you the One?” Jesus replies, “Tell him what you have seen and heard.”

Jesus then asks the crowd what they thought John would be like. He is the one predicted by the Scriptures- the voice of one in the wilderness preparing the way for the Messiah.

Of all who have ever lived before that time, none was greater than John. But the least in the Kingdom is greater than John. The kingdom is advancing forcefully and violent men are attacking it.

Application

God’s kingdom seems like nothing important until you look closely. Consisting mainly of ordinary people living out their daily lives, it is constantly advancing.

It is like a tree that seems weak, but over time the tree can undermine and destroy a great building.

We think the church in the West is weak, and it certainly seems that way. Yet in other places, the church is growing and overcoming those who oppose it. In China, huge numbers are coming to Christ, threatening the might of the Chinese Communist Party.

The church grows, the kingdom grows, as individuals share their love for the Saviour with their friends.

This threatens the violent power- hungry people. They seek to destroy God’s kingdom, but this is impossible.

The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in us. Nothing can destroy that power.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for the immense privilege of being in your Kingdom. Show me today how I can best live for you. Amen.