Advance

kingdom-of-God-wheatGod-followers are confident that the full and eternal gospel of the kingdom of God is expanding and advancing progressively toward the consummation of God’s ultimate and complete rule.  It is both a mystery and an encouragement to come to the awareness that we have been invited to participate in this overarching narrative.  Early in the epistle to the Philippians, Paul discusses ways in which this news of God’s rescue, redemption, and reign is being realized.

The gospel of the kingdom of God is being advanced through the sovereign connections that displace chaos in the body of Christ.  Cooperation replaces competition, criticism, a celebrity culture, and an implied caste system within the church.

The gospel of the kingdom of God is being advanced in the consistency and the coherence of our message.  This is seen in a personal and a propositional apologetic.

The gospel of the kingdom of God is being advanced through the character and the credibility of a godly lifestyle.  Even personal limitations become a launch for the good news.

The gospel of the kingdom of God is being advanced and stimulated by intentional acts of kindness and compassion toward all who are in need.

The gospel of the kingdom of God is being advanced in spite of criticism, contention, and lack of cooperation from insiders and outsiders.