The phrase "Seek first the kingdom" originates from the teachings of Jesus Christ, specifically found in the Gospel of Matthew. This directive is a central tenet of Christian discipleship and emphasizes the priority of God's reign and righteousness in the life of a believer.

Biblical Context

The command to "seek first the kingdom of God" is found in Matthew 6:33, where Jesus instructs His followers during the Sermon on the Mount. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This passage is part of a larger discourse where Jesus addresses the concerns of daily life, such as food, drink, and clothing, urging His followers not to be anxious about these needs.

Theological Significance

1. Priority of the Kingdom: The call to seek the kingdom first underscores the importance of prioritizing God's rule and His righteousness above all earthly concerns. It suggests that the believer's primary focus should be on aligning with God's will and purposes.

2. Trust in Divine Provision: By instructing His followers to seek the kingdom first, Jesus assures them that God will provide for their needs. This reflects a deep trust in God's providence and care, encouraging believers to rely on Him rather than being consumed by worry.

3. Righteousness: The inclusion of "His righteousness" highlights the ethical and moral dimensions of seeking the kingdom. It implies a pursuit of a life that reflects God's character and standards, embodying the values of the kingdom in daily conduct.

4. Eschatological Hope: The kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future hope. Seeking the kingdom involves living in anticipation of its full realization, where God's reign will be fully established. This eschatological perspective provides hope and motivation for believers to live faithfully in the present.

Practical Implications

1. Daily Living: Seeking the kingdom first affects every aspect of a believer's life, from personal decisions to interactions with others. It calls for a reorientation of priorities, where spiritual growth and obedience to God's commands take precedence.

2. Community and Mission: The kingdom of God is not only an individual pursuit but also a communal one. Believers are called to participate in the mission of the church, advancing God's kingdom through evangelism, service, and social justice.

3. Stewardship: Recognizing God's provision encourages responsible stewardship of resources. Believers are called to use their time, talents, and treasures in ways that honor God and further His kingdom.

Related Scriptures

· Matthew 6:25-34: This passage provides the broader context for the command to seek the kingdom first, addressing anxiety and trust in God's provision.
· Luke 12:31: A parallel passage where Jesus reiterates the importance of seeking God's kingdom.
· Romans 14:17: Paul describes the kingdom of God as "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit," emphasizing its spiritual nature.
· Colossians 3:1-2: Paul encourages believers to set their minds on things above, aligning with the kingdom-focused mindset.

Historical and Cultural Background

In the first-century Jewish context, the concept of the kingdom of God was associated with the hope of divine intervention and the restoration of Israel. Jesus' teaching redefined this expectation, presenting the kingdom as a present reality inaugurated through His ministry and a future hope to be fully realized at His return.

Conclusion

The command to "seek first the kingdom of God" remains a foundational principle for Christian living, calling believers to prioritize God's reign and righteousness in all aspects of life. Through this pursuit, believers are assured of God's provision and are invited to participate in His redemptive work in the world.