Defining Kingdomcentric

You know, it's funny how a single word can hold so much meaning, even if our computers try to tell us it doesn't exist! "Kingdomcentric" – I love how it rolls off the tongue, even if my spellchecker throws a fit every time I type it. It's one of those terms that just feels right, you know? Like it captures something deep down, a way of seeing the world that resonates with my soul. It might be a word I stumbled upon, or maybe it bubbled up from somewhere within, but either way, it perfectly describes a way of living that's become essential to me.

It's a bit ironic, isn't it? Here I am, clinging to this word, "Kingdomcentric," – a word that feels so incredibly significant to me – and yet, my computer stubbornly insists on underlining it in red, suggesting a hyphenated "Kingdom-centric" instead. It makes me wonder, if Microsoft Word, with all its algorithms and vocabulary, can't grasp the essence of what I mean, will my readers? And that's why I wanted to share it with you. In a world that often feels scattered and chaotic, Kingdomcentric" is my compass. It's about aligning my actions and decisions with a greater purpose, with values that prioritize things like faith, community, and personal growth. It's about living with intention, making choices that contribute to something larger than myself.

The Bible speaks of it, philosophers ponder it, explorers seek it, and even the simplest among us have felt the pull of the question: "Is there more?" Is there more than what meets the eye, beyond the tangible and the immediate? Throughout history, we've grappled with this mystery, using terms like "dimension," "parallel world," or "alternative reality" to describe the unseen realm that tugs at our consciousness.

At the heart of this question lies the fundamental truth that there are two kingdoms: the Kingdom of God and another kingdom – a kingdom often referred to as the kingdom of this world, worldliness, the kingdom of darkness, or even the kingdom of Satan. This other kingdom competes for our attention, our allegiance, and our very souls. It's a distraction “kingdom” that can seem alluring, offering immediate gratification and worldly pleasures, but ultimately leads to emptiness and separation from our true purpose.

In truth, this worldly, here-and-now existence isn't an actual kingdom at all. A true kingdom requires a king, a legitimate authority with the power to rule. And Satan, Lucifer, the devil, or whatever name you ascribe to the opponent of faith, holds no such position. He is a rebel, cast down and stripped of any rightful authority. Even if this world were his to command, it wouldn't constitute a kingdom, but rather a chaotic rebel camp, a gathering of miscreants wreaking havoc wherever the representatives of the one true King have failed to maintain vigilance.

At best, this earth, this here and now, is merely a shared piece of land, occupied by both believers and those who have yet to find their faith. Some wander through life, simply breathing and passing the time, without a clear sense of direction or purpose. Others, consciously or unconsciously, pledge allegiance to a perceived king, a force that drives their desires and ambitions. These "kings" come in many forms: the allure of wealth, the hunger for fame, the seductive whispers of instant gratification, or even the worship of Mother Earth. Each offers a temporary sense of belonging and fulfillment, but ultimately leaves a void in the human heart.

Jesus arrived with a clear twofold purpose: to seek and save the lost and to dismantle the works of the enemy. Note the distinction – the enemy, not a king. With Jesus' arrival, the judgment of this world began, and Satan was stripped of his authority here on earth, just as he had been in heaven. (John 12:31) This marked a turning point in the cosmic battle, a decisive victory that shattered the illusion of the enemy's reign.

With this understanding of the true spiritual landscape, the question arises: where do we stand as newborn believers, and what is our purpose in this ongoing cosmic drama? How do we actively participate as co-laborers with Christ, aligning ourselves with His Kingdom and furthering its influence in a world still grappling with the enemy's deceptive schemes? This is where the concept of "Kingdomcentric" living truly takes shape, calling us to a life that transcends mere survival and embraces a higher calling.

I worry that far too many, myself included once upon a time, are content to straddle the fence, with one foot tentatively planted in the world and the other in the church building. We become comfortable with the routine of attending a traditional church service, reciting familiar prayers, singing comforting hymns, and hoping for the best for ourselves and our loved ones. But, dear friends, there is so much more to this life of faith! And the stakes are far higher than we often realize.

This lukewarm existence, this spiritual complacency, keeps us from experiencing the fullness of God's Kingdom and the transformative power it holds. It's time to step off the fence, to fully engage with our faith, and to embrace the abundant life that awaits those who wholeheartedly pursue the Kingdom of God. That brings me to another favorite expression of mine, sonship!

Ah, "sonship"! It's a powerful word, isn't it? It speaks to something deeper than just belonging – it implies inheritance, intimacy, and authority. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Romans 8:14) The Spirit you received does not make you only servants, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. You have received the Spirit of adoption, allowing you to boldly call God FATHER. The Holy Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirits that we are the children of God, if children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified with Him. (Romans 8:14-17)

To live "Kingdomcentric" is to fully embrace our identity as sons and daughters of the King. It's about living with the confidence and authority that comes from knowing who we are and whose we are. As sons and heirs, we possess an unshakeable hope in our inheritance, a glorious future secured by Christ's sacrifice.

Trusted sons and daughters enjoy intimate access to the King's presence, basking in His love and receiving His guidance. And even when we don't feel His presence as strongly, we can trust that He is always with us, empowering us to draw upon His resources – His wisdom, His strength, His provision – to navigate the challenges of life. The Holy Spirit within us is the "earnest," the down payment, guaranteeing our full inheritance. (Ephesians 1:14)

When we grasp the magnitude of who God is and, just as importantly, who we are in Him, it revolutionizes our sense of worth, identity, and potential. We are no longer defined by our past mistakes, our insecurities, or the world's limitations. Instead, we walk with a newfound confidence, knowing that we are loved, accepted, and empowered by the King of Kings.

As sons and daughters, we have access to the Father's boundless wisdom, enabling us to make wise decisions and navigate life's complexities with clarity. We experience His favor, opening doors of opportunity and fostering meaningful connections with others. And we are infused with His creativity, allowing us to contribute to the world in unique and impactful ways.

The children of God are called to be problem-solvers, agents of transformation in a world desperately in need of solutions. We are to exercise leadership, not for personal gain, but to share the good news of God's Kingdom and make disciples. Our lives should be marked by influence and growth, both in our own spiritual journeys and in the lives of those around us.

No wonder Jesus urged us to "seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness." When we truly grasp our identity as sons and daughters of the King, and when we step into the fullness of our inheritance, everything changes. This is the essence of "Kingdomcentric" living – a life marked by purpose, confidence, and authority. It's a life where we actively partner with God, utilizing His resources and reflecting His love to a world in need. It's a life of impact, influence, and unwavering faith. May we all embrace this "Kingdomcentric" perspective and walk boldly in the light of our true identity and worth as children of the Most High King.