Kingdom Message: a Mandate for Change

Article by Ron King

The Bible is filled with verses and accounts of change. I have often heard it said that the only easy way to deal with change is when you are the one doing the change. Truth be told, many times we are not in control of the change and therefore we find it hard to adjust.

Change is real and necessary. For salvation and maturing in the faith we must change our mind (repent) and agree that God’s way is better than our way. For Spiritual maturity we allow the Holy Spirit to change us as it is written: “Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”(Romans 12:2 NLT).

Repentance is a process not a prayer. It is all about transformation (change). It requires fruit [Mat 3:8]. It is the renewing of the mind [Rom 12:1-2] by taking on the mind of Christ [1Cor 2:15-16].

The Goal for the Believer: To be willing and to know when and how to adapt your emotions and actions (i.e. behaviors) toward others and in various situations without compromising your kingdom values.

Key Text:

1 Corinthians 9:19-22 NLT Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ. When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.

Paul’s Example

Paul, an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, imitates Jesus’ life and example and commands us to do the same. [Read Eph 5:1-2, 8-10] We of all people have the supernatural ability to adapt and show the love of Christ (our nature) to others and manifest the attitude of Christ (our mind) in any situation.

Kingdom Nature: LOVE

Galatians 5:13-14 NLT For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.  For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Kingdom Example: The Lord Jesus Christ

Philippians 2:6-8 NLT Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross.

Kingdom Principle: Esteem others better than yourself

Philippians 2:1-4 NLT Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

A. Develop a WILLING ATTITUDE

Philippians 2:5-6 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.

B. Know HOW TO CHANGE

Philippians 2:6-8 NLT Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.

C. Know WHEN TO CHANGE

Philippians 2:7b-9 NLT When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names,

Other Examples: Abraham [Gen 12ff / location & people], David [1 Chron; 2 Sam / vocational change _ shepherd to warrior (Goliath) to king, Apostles [Gospels / vocational and transformational change. The entire Bible is about change!

2 Corinthians 3:16-18 NLT But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.