Introduction

Living the Kingdom Values refers to embodying the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ as outlined in the New Testament, particularly in the context of the Kingdom of God. These values are central to Christian discipleship and reflect the transformative power of the Gospel in the life of a believer. The Kingdom of God, as proclaimed by Jesus, is both a present reality and a future hope, and living according to its values is essential for those who seek to follow Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of the Kingdom of God is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently speaks of the Kingdom, emphasizing its nearness and the need for repentance and faith. In Mark 1:15 , Jesus declares, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel!" This call to repentance and faith is foundational for entering the Kingdom and living according to its values.

Sermon on the Mount

The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5-7, is a key passage that outlines the values of the Kingdom. Jesus begins with the Beatitudes, which describe the blessedness of those who embody Kingdom virtues such as humility, mercy, and peacemaking. Matthew 5:3-10 states:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

These Beatitudes encapsulate the countercultural nature of Kingdom values, which often stand in contrast to worldly values.

Love and Forgiveness

Central to living the Kingdom values is the command to love God and love one's neighbor. In Matthew 22:37-39 , Jesus summarizes the law with these commandments: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" This love is to be extended even to one's enemies, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:44 : "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Forgiveness is another critical aspect of Kingdom living. In Matthew 6:14-15 , Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness: "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours."

Righteousness and Justice

Living the Kingdom values involves a commitment to righteousness and justice. In Matthew 6:33 , Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This pursuit of righteousness is not merely personal but extends to social justice, reflecting God's concern for the oppressed and marginalized.

Humility and Servanthood

Humility and servanthood are hallmarks of Kingdom living. Jesus exemplified these values, as seen in Philippians 2:5-7 : "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." Believers are called to follow Christ's example by serving others selflessly.

Faith and Trust

Faith and trust in God are essential components of living the Kingdom values. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." Trusting in God's provision and sovereignty is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34, where He encourages believers not to worry about their needs but to trust in God's care.

Conclusion

Living the Kingdom values is a lifelong journey of aligning one's life with the teachings of Jesus and the principles of the Kingdom of God. It involves a radical reorientation of priorities, attitudes, and actions, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in the life of a believer.