Kingdom Tension Part 2 with Discussion Guide

Kingdom Tension Part 2 Discussion Guide

Summary

This sermon is part of a series called ‘Kingdom Tension’ focusing on the early church and its role as God’s instrument for spreading His kingdom. The pastor discusses how the church lives in the tension between the ‘now and not yet’ – between Christ’s first coming and His return. He emphasizes that the church isn’t just a building or weekly gathering, but rather who Christians are as God’s people, empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry out the ministry of reconciliation.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word and the role of Your church, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Help us understand how we can better serve as Your instruments in this world. Guide our discussion and show us how to live faithfully in the tension between the now and not yet. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had being part of a church community?

Key Verses

2 Corinthians 5:17-19
Matthew 16:18-19
Matthew 28:18-20
Acts 2:42-47

Questions

What does it mean to you personally to be part of God’s church?
How do you see the tension between the ‘now and not yet’ playing out in your daily life?
What does it mean to have the ‘keys to the kingdom’ as mentioned in Matthew 16?
How can we better embrace our role in the ministry of reconciliation?
What barriers might prevent us from ‘opening the door’ and getting out of God’s way?
How does understanding our identity as ‘new creation’ people change how we live?
In what ways can we demonstrate kingdom living to those around us?
How can we better partner with the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

Life Application

This week, intentionally look for opportunities to be an instrument of God’s kingdom by sharing His message of reconciliation with someone in your sphere of influence. Remember to ‘open the door’ and let God work through you rather than trying to orchestrate everything yourself.

Key Takeaways

The church is God’s chosen instrument for spreading His kingdom
We live in the tension between Christ’s first coming and His return
The Holy Spirit empowers us for ministry and kingdom work
Our primary role is to share the message of reconciliation
Success in ministry comes from opening the door and letting God work

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for making us part of Your church and giving us the privilege of being Your instruments in this world. Help us to faithfully live in the tension between the now and not yet, always ready to open doors for Your work. Empower us by Your Spirit to be effective witnesses and ministers of reconciliation. In Your name we pray, Amen.

This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.