Basic Scripture:
But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:29 NKJV)
Message:
Christianity has been the most persecuted religious group and is still. The early Christians made the choice to live through persecution and death because they found something more valuable in Christ than fear.
In our modern society, christian values are gradually being eroded from social norms. There is a a conflict between the desires and will of man and the sovereignty and authority of God. For instance, Christians have been subjected to pressure due to changes in gender and sexuality laws.
As we witnessed in the book of Acts and throughout history, those who choose to align themselves with the Divine kingdom often encounter God’s power and presence in exceptional ways. They become vessels of His love, grace, and justice, bringing about transformation and redemption in the world.
Shadrach, Meshack, and Abednego,the three Hebrew slaves, were thrown into the burning fire for refusing to bow to the image of Nebuchadnezzar. Their test turned into a testimony when they were miraculously saved by God. Daniel also had his share when king Darius signed a decree prohibiting any act of worship to another God. He was thrown into the lions den as punishment, yet he was found unharmed. In the end, he and the three Hebrews were promoted to a higher level after standing firm in their faith.
The Apostles continued to witness even though they were warned and persecuted several times. Signs, wonders, and miracles followed them as they kept spreading the gospel.
The Bible a source of inspiration and a reminder that our true citizenship is in heaven. We should strive to obey God rather than men, trusting in His sovereignty and following His commandments, even in the face of friction with the human kingdom.
Martin Luther King Jnr has to say about collision between the kingdom of God and human system: ”If any earthly institution or custom conflicts with God’s will, it is your Christian duty to oppose it. You must never allow the transitory, evanescent demands of man-made institutions to take precedence over the eternal demands of the Almighty God.”
In a world that often values power, wealth, and self-gratification, the clash between the human and God’s kingdoms can be a deary and uncomfortable experience. It requires us to make difficult choices, to stand up for what is right even when it is unpopular, and to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance.
Food For Thought:
The ultimate allegiance of every believer is to God and His kingdom.
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THE KINGDOM OF GOD
1.Pursuing the Kingdom of God
2.Receiving the Kingdom Like Children
3.Entering the Kingdom of God
4.Our Identity in the Kingdom of God
5.Hindrances to Inheriting the Kingdom of God
6.The New Temple of the Kingdom of God
7.Advancing the Kingdom of God
8.Nehemiah Prayer: A Blueprint for Kingdom Building
9.Kingdom Builders: Prevailing Through Adversity
10.Allegiance to Two Kingdoms
11.When Kingdoms Collide
12.Remaining Faithful in God’s Kingdom through Resilience https://samnetanel.org/archives/1697