When the Pharisees asked Jesus when the Kingdom of God would come, He answered:
“The Kingdom of God does not come by observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the Kingdom of God is within you.”
(Luke 17:20–21)
At the time, many people expected that the Kingdom of God would suddenly appear in a visible, dramatic way. But Jesus made it clear: the Kingdom is already present—within and among those who believe. It is accessible, but it must be personally possessed. Like a hidden treasure, it must be diligently sought.
“The Kingdom of Heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.”
(Matthew 13:44)
When Jesus said:
“But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
(Matthew 6:33)
He was pointing us to something deeper. Anything that must be “sought” implies it is not immediately obvious or easily attained. It requires effort, intentionality, and perseverance.
Giving your life to Jesus is not the end, but the beginning. It’s like enrolling in the first grade—you’ve started a lifelong journey, not yet reached maturity. Walking in the Kingdom requires continual growth and discipleship.
The Effort Required to Obtain the Kingdom
Jesus emphasized the spiritual struggle involved:
“From the days of John the Baptist until now the Kingdom of Heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”
(Matthew 11:12)
This is not about physical violence, but about spiritual determination and urgency. Just as financial wealth is not gained by idle dreaming, the Kingdom is not obtained through wishful thinking. It requires spiritual diligence—seeking, learning, and growing daily.
Paul gave Timothy this instruction:
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
(2 Timothy 2:15)
Complacency in spiritual matters is dangerous. Like students who advance through grades, Christians must also progress in faith and understanding. Jesus warned against spiritual laziness using the parable of the ten virgins:
(Read Matthew 25:1–13)
The five foolish virgins carried lamps but had no extra oil. They were unprepared when the bridegroom came. In the same way, we must daily refill our spiritual “oil” through prayer, Scripture reading, and obedience.
How Do We Seek the Kingdom?
We seek the Kingdom through intentional spiritual practices:
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.”
(1 Peter 2:2)
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”
(Matthew 5:6)
“Search for [wisdom] as for silver, and seek it as hidden treasures.”
(Proverbs 2:4)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
(Romans 12:2)
Jesus compared a diligent disciple to a wise householder:
“Every scribe instructed concerning the Kingdom of Heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.”
(Matthew 13:52)
The Rewards of Attaining the Kingdom
When the Kingdom takes root in your life:
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You are no longer swayed by false doctrines.
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching…”
(Ephesians 4:14)
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You gain spiritual discernment and a deeper relationship with God.
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You lay hold of eternal promises:
“Then I saw ‘a new heaven and a new earth,’ for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…”
(Revelation 21:1–7)
Jesus promised His faithful apostles:
“Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
(Matthew 19:28)
To the church in Laodicea, Jesus said:
“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
(Revelation 3:21)
These special honors are not for every believer but for those who overcome:
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you do these things, you will never stumble.”
(2 Peter 1:10)
And finally, Jesus gave this warning and promise:
“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to his work.”
(Revelation 22:12)
A Final Call
Beloved, now is the time to strive for the Kingdom. It is a treasure of incomparable value, worth every sacrifice. Hold on to what you have, so that no one may steal your crown.
“Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.”
(Revelation 3:11)
“Make every effort to confirm your calling and election, for if you do these things, you will never stumble.”
(2 Peter 1:10)