Writing a Different Future #3 – Forcefully Advancing

In one scene of John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, many people were standing around the doors of a grand palace waiting to go in. But they were afraid of the armed soldiers blocking the entrance.

Then a brave man arrived and identified himself to the gatekeeper. “Write down my name, sir!” Then armed with a sword and a helmet, the brave man fought his way into the palace of glory.

John the Baptist announced the coming of the Kingdom of God.

Jesus stated the Kingdom of God is here.

Jesus also said, “From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it” (Matthew 11:12, NIV 1984).

Through the power and authority of Jesus Christ’s ministry, an assault was made against sin, illness, disability, demons, and even death itself.

The kingdom of God had arrived in power and it continues – advancing with force and power. “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power” (1 Corinthians 4:20).

Christ followers who want God’s kingdom realities more than anything else, actively, eagerly, aggressively, forcefully go after them and seize them.

Laying aside timidity of soul – taking up the strength of the Lord.

Throwing our whole being into knowing God – getting serious about being a fully devoted follower of Jesus.

Tearing down every idol of our hearts – refusing to compromise with the world.

Overcoming all the work of the enemy – prevailing through faith and truth.

Following the whole counsel of God – eagerly taking possession of all God has for us.

Bearing witness to the reality of Christ in us – telling others the great things God has done.

The kingdom of heaven doesn’t arrive in power for those who are half-hearted or indifferent. Rather, kingdom realities are only for strong and sturdy people of resolve who forcefully advance.

What would “forcefully advancing” look like for you?

~ Pastor Dave