Part 5 - The King and His Kingdom - The Coming Kingdom “The secret of the Kingdom of God has been given to you..” Mark 4:10 Study by: Jacqui Thomas Sermons can be viewed on the [Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel](INSERT YOUTUBE CHANNEL LINK HERE) GATHERING / WORSHIP / PRAYER Take a few minutes to catch up with each other and build community. If you have new people present give time to getting to know each other. FOCUS The Kingdom of God (also referred to as The Kingdom of Heaven) is a multilayered theme mentioned often in the four gospels. It refers to God’s universal rule over all of creation, for “the Lord has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything” (Psalm 103:19). It also describes God's spiritual rule within the hearts of God’s children as they surrender to Jesus, who said, “...give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). When Jesus spoke on the Kingdom he often taught in parables, which were simple stories rich in metaphors, to illustrate deep spiritual truths. Ultimately, they teach us to know and serve Jesus, the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:15). SETTING THE SCENE This passage of Scripture is one that can often cause more questions than answers! The important things to remember when reading it is that we should not try and read extra information into it (other than what is supplied in Scripture itself). Whenever we are talking about future events, we need to remember that we won’t really fully understand it until we have been through it. However, there are many important things we can learn from what Jesus tells us here, both about the present Kingdom of God and the future dimension. OPENING GOD’s WORD Warm Up Question: When you think about the Coming Kingdom, what does it mean to you? What have you heard others say about it and how does it make you feel? Read: Luke 17:20-37 You can read a few verses each or have a look at the passage from other translations. Discussion Questions: This passage is written in two different sections to different audiences… From this parable, the Master represents Jesus. What can we learn about him? From verses 14-23. And other questions for group discussion. LIVING OUT GOD’s WORD Although we don’t know everything about what will happen when the Lord returns in what we call the Second coming, we can learn from this passage… PRAYER We all have loved ones that we aren’t sure are ready to meet God. As a group, share the people who are on your heart and then spend some time praying over these people, asking God to do a work in them. Contacts If you would like more information or further help, please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au