Life In The Kingdom

LIFE IN THE KINGDOM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Romans 14:17

"For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 6:33, John 3:3-5, Colossians 1:13, Philippians 3:20, Luke 17:20-21

INTRODUCTION:

Life in the Kingdom of God is a new dimension of living. It is not defined by physical wealth or human status but by a transformed lifestyle under the rule and reign of Jesus Christ. When a person is born again, they are translated from the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Colossians 1:13). This marks the beginning of a new life governed by kingdom values.

Kingdom life is marked by a new mindset. The believer is no longer guided by worldly systems or selfish ambitions but by the principles of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. We are called to reflect the nature of the King we serve and to live in alignment with His will and Word. The Kingdom of God is not far off; it is within us.

The Kingdom of God is spiritual, powerful, and transformative. As citizens of this Kingdom, we carry a responsibility to represent Christ on earth. This life calls us to holiness, obedience, and a demonstration of God’s love and authority. To understand kingdom life is to understand true purpose, identity, and victory.

1. LIFE IN THE KINGDOM BEGINS WITH A NEW BIRTH

Kingdom life is not inherited or earned; it begins with salvation.

a) Entrance into the Kingdom is by being born again

John 3:3 – Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

b) It is a spiritual transformation, not physical change

John 3:5 – Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter...

c) This new birth makes us citizens of Heaven

Philippians 3:20 – For our conversation is in heaven...

d) It delivers us from the dominion of darkness

Colossians 1:13 – Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness...

Biblical Example: Nicodemus

Though religious, Nicodemus needed new birth to access the Kingdom (John 3:1-7).

2. LIFE IN THE KINGDOM IS A LIFE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

God’s Kingdom thrives on purity and uprightness.

a) Kingdom citizens are called to holy living

1 Peter 1:15-16 – Be ye holy; for I am holy.

b) Righteousness is not by works but by faith in Christ

Romans 3:22 – The righteousness of God which is by faith...

c) We must hunger for righteousness continually

Matthew 5:6 – Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness...

d) Our lives should reflect the nature of the King

1 John 3:7 – He that doeth righteousness is righteous...

Biblical Example: Daniel

Daniel's unwavering righteousness marked him out in a corrupt kingdom (Daniel 6:4-10).

3. LIFE IN THE KINGDOM IS A LIFE OF PEACE

True peace is a hallmark of those who dwell under God’s rule.

a) God gives peace that surpasses human understanding

Philippians 4:7 – The peace of God... shall keep your hearts and minds...

b) Peace is a fruit of living in the Spirit

Galatians 5:22 – The fruit of the Spirit is... peace...

c) Kingdom peace is rooted in trust in God

Isaiah 26:3 – Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace...

d) We are called to be peacemakers

Matthew 5:9 – Blessed are the peacemakers...

Biblical Example: Jesus in the storm

He exemplified kingdom peace by sleeping in a raging storm (Mark 4:37-39).

4. LIFE IN THE KINGDOM IS A LIFE OF JOY IN THE HOLY GHOST

Joy is the energy and evidence of the Spirit-led life.

a) Kingdom joy comes from the Holy Spirit

Romans 14:17 – Joy in the Holy Ghost.

b) Joy remains even in trials and affliction

James 1:2 – Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations...

c) Joy is our strength in the journey of faith

Nehemiah 8:10 – The joy of the Lord is your strength.

d) Joy is a sign of God’s presence in our lives

Psalm 16:11 – In thy presence is fullness of joy...

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas

Despite being imprisoned, they rejoiced and praised God (Acts 16:25-26).

5. LIFE IN THE KINGDOM IS A LIFE OF SEEKING GOD'S PRIORITY

Kingdom citizens live with heaven’s agenda as their goal.

a) Seek first the Kingdom and its righteousness

Matthew 6:33 – All these things shall be added unto you.

b) Kingdom living requires daily surrender

Luke 9:23 – If any man will come after me, let him deny himself...

c) Kingdom life is marked by obedience and stewardship

Matthew 25:21 – Well done, good and faithful servant...

d) We live with eternity in view

Colossians 3:2 – Set your affection on things above...

Biblical Example: The early church