The Deep Things of the Spirit - Kingdom of God
Brother Sparks discusses the concept of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that it represents the sovereign rule of God, inaugurated through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. He highlights that the Kingdom is not merely a system or realm but a nature defined by God's authority. The passages from Mark and Matthew illustrate that the Kingdom's power is realized through the Son of Man, Jesus. The Day of Pentecost marked the introduction of this sovereign rule, which operates through the Church, demonstrating God's power akin to a mighty rushing wind. Brother Sparks stresses that this power rests on human weakness, as the self-centeredness of man must be shattered for God's sovereignty to prevail. He points out that pride is the strength of the opposing kingdom, and God's disdain for it is crucial for establishing His rule. The Church is to be a vessel for this Kingdom, reflecting God's grace and humility. Ultimately, the permanence of God's Kingdom is assured, as it is built upon what endures, free from human self-sufficiency and pride.
Outline of Main Points
- Definition of the Kingdom of God as God's sovereign rule.
- Inauguration of the Kingdom through Jesus and the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.
- Power of the Kingdom likened to a mighty rushing wind.
- Importance of human weakness for the establishment of God's sovereignty.
- God's disdain for pride as a barrier to His rule.
- The Church as a vessel for the Kingdom of God.
- Permanence of God's Kingdom built on enduring principles.
1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.
28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. 28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.
