Kingdom Revelation

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. [1 John 3.16]

John, like other New Testament writers,  speaks of the Kingdom of God in familiar family terms. We see here in 1 John the use of words like "Father" and "brothers and sisters."

John also defines real love by the actions of no other but Christ. This is Kingdom revelation that we should imitate our "brother" and "joint-heir" in the work and business of the Kingdom! Who else would we look to in order to know how the Kingdom works?

It is imperative that we also recognize that Kingdom work involves people! Jesus' work on earth NEVER focused on anything except people! The only thing that comes to my mind that could contest this fact is when Jesus "cleansed the Temple" when He drove out the money changers. But even then, Jesus made a point to declare that God's house should be called a "house of prayer" - and prayer is for people!

In reality, giving up our lives for our brothers and sisters, IS seeking first the Kingdom of God! Giving our lives for our brothers and sisters begins in prayer for them! This is precisely why Jesus taught us first to pray, Your Kingdom come..."!

This is good stuff! This is Kingdom stuff!

Father, help me to increase my focus and clarity of Your Kingdom!