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Welcome Home
Embracing Unity in God's Kingdom
The Diversity of Queens and God's Kingdom
Queens, often referred to as the "world's borough," is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and cuisines. This diversity is a beautiful reflection of God's kingdom, where people from all walks of life are welcomed and valued. Just as Queens offers a place for everyone, so does God's kingdom. The church is not just a building but a community of believers from diverse backgrounds, united in Christ.
Ephesians 3: The Mystery Revealed
In Ephesians 3, the Apostle Paul reveals the mystery that both Jews and Gentiles are co-heirs in Christ. This inclusion was a radical concept at the time, breaking down long-standing barriers and uniting all believers into one body through the gospel. Paul emphasizes that this mystery, once hidden, is now revealed to everyone, showcasing God's plan for unity and reconciliation.
Understanding the Good News
The good news, or the gospel, is central to the Christian faith. It encompasses four key beliefs:
- Jesus' Life, Death, and Resurrection: Believing that Christ died for our sins and rose from the dead, defeating sin and death.
- Salvation by Grace Through Faith: Salvation is a gift from God, received through faith, not by our own efforts.
- Reconciliation with God: Through Jesus, believers are forgiven and brought into a right relationship with God.
- Promise of Eternal Life: Those who believe in Christ are promised eternal life in God's kingdom.
Grace: God's Unmerited Favor
Grace is God's unmerited favor, extended to humanity out of His love and mercy. It is freely given and cannot be earned. Romans 3:23-24 reminds us that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory, but we are justified by His grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ. Faith in Christ brings us into a right relationship with God, where our sins are forgiven, and we are made righteous in His sight.
Unity in Diversity
Despite our differences, we are all equal in Christ. Galatians 3:28 emphasizes that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, but all are one in Christ Jesus. This unity is a testament to God's plan for His church, where diverse backgrounds come together to form one body.
Guarding Against Idols
Idols can create divisions and distract us from our true identity in Christ. Anything that takes priority over our relationship with Jesus becomes an idol. Whether it's our job, possessions, or need for validation, these idols can lead us away from God. Matthew 6:19-21 warns against storing up earthly treasures and encourages us to focus on heavenly treasures that align our hearts with God's kingdom.
Living with an Eternal Perspective
To live in unity with Christ, we must prioritize our relationship with God above all else. This involves:
- Prioritizing Heavenly Treasures: Aligning our hearts with God's kingdom and purpose.
- Generosity and Service: Giving to others and investing in acts of kindness.
- Eternal Perspective: Making decisions based on eternal impact rather than immediate gratification.
- Spiritual Growth: Deepening our relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, worship, and community.
Catch the sermon right here!
In Christ, we find unity and equality despite our differences. Just as Queens embraces diversity and offers a place for everyone, so does God's kingdom. All who believe in Jesus Christ are welcome. Let's commit to prioritizing heavenly treasures, living with an eternal perspective, and growing spiritually. By doing so, we align our hearts with God's kingdom and experience the true peace and fulfillment that only He can provide.
Welcome home to God's kingdom. Let's pray together that God helps us keep our hearts focused on Him and His will for us. Remember, we don't have to do it alone. We can leave our burdens at the feet of Jesus and trust in His mighty power to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.
Questions of reflection
- What idols might be taking priority over your relationship with Jesus?
- How can you prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly pursuits this week?
- In what ways can you practice generosity and service to others?
- How can you deepen your spiritual growth and live with an eternal perspective?
