The Kingdom Mission

The Kingdom Mission

Read: Matthew 10:5-10

“As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.”

Matthew 10:7-8

“Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.”

—D. T. Niles

IN WORD Has Jesus sent us on an impossible mission? There are sides of this kingdom we’ve never seen, and few of us have much experience in miraculous healings, resurrections, cleansings, and exorcisms. Has Jesus called us to declare what we have not seen?

No, even if there is much we do not know about His kingdom, we are called to declare what we do know. This is exactly what the King of heaven is telling His subjects. They have been in on His miracles, liberating the captives of sickness and sin. They are to do what He has shown them. Their mission comes straight from experience.

This is our calling, too. Have you seen Jesus heal? Then declare His healing. Have you seen Him deliver? Then declare His deliverance. Have you seen Him release captives? Then declare His freedom. Whatever He has done for you, you are to do for others. It’s that simple.

IN DEED We often hoard the gifts God has given us as our own possessions. They are not; they were given for a broader reason. He intends not only to care for us, but to care for us in such a way that we become like Him in His care. Those who have been forgiven are to forgive. Those who have had debts canceled are to cancel others’ debts. Those who have been given ample resources are to give them away.

Christian service is easily summed up. We are to minister to others as Jesus has ministered to us. His blessing is the means for us to bless others. However we have experienced the kingdom of heaven, that’s how we are to share it. Then, as we become His channels, we experience the nearness of the kingdom—and the King.