Day 3 - Kingdom Advance

One of the landmark scientific discoveries of the 20th Century was the ever expanding nature of the universe. This was first predicted by Albert Einstein in his theory of relativity, and later confirmed by Sir Edwin Hubble. Hubble’s discovery revealed that from the moment of creation (or the Big Bang, as it is popularly called), the universe has been expanding outward in all directions. What is more, he reported that as the universe expands outward, it does so at an ever increasing rate of speed. The universe continues to obey the command of the Creator that light should penetrate the darkness

When the prophet Isaiah spoke of the coming of Jesus, he explained, “Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:7). The message of the prophet was that the Kingdom of God would never stop advancing. In all directions where it could expand, it would expand.

There are two primary areas into which God desires to see the advance of His kingdom. Both areas are of equal importance to Him. The first area He seeks to expand His rule is into the world. Jesus said, “This Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world…and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). Whenever the Gospel is taken to a new area of the world or to a new heart, it marks it’s continued Advance.

The second area into which God seeks to expand His rule is within your heart and mine.

The good news, regardless of the part we have played in facilitating the kingdom advance, is that there will be no end to the increase of His rule. He will take up new territory in the world. And He is determined to see new areas of our lives come under the influence of His reign.

Question for Consideration: What can I do today to be a part of the advance of God’s kingdom in the world? What are some areas of my life where I need to see God’s rule increase?

Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:25-34

- Lucas Aufenkamp, ND Men Director