You Are a Citizen of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ
Rev. Tse Amable | October 17 2024 | John 18:28-40

KEY VERSE:
Jesus answered, “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS REALM.” John 18:36 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Every kingdom has citizens who belong to it. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ also has citizens – believers in Jesus Christ. In his famous conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus Christ declared “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit” (John 3:5). That means the criterion for becoming a citizen of heaven is being born again – the new birth. Once you satisfy that requirement, you become a bona fide citizen of heaven. Apostle Paul rightly wrote “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). See also Hebrews 13:14 and 1 John 2:15–17. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are subjects of Jesus Christ’s kingdom. We are citizens of heaven, and we owe our highest allegiance to our ultimate authority - King Jesus Christ. Just as He declared, we, too, can say, “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD”.
Every citizenship carries with it certain rights and privileges as well as duties and obligations. As citizens of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, we owe it as the duty to our King to live according to the laws, decrees and commandments which govern that kingdom.
In Hebrews 12:28-29, we read: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, LET US BE THANKFUL, AND SO WORSHIP GOD ACCEPTABLY WITH REVERENCE AND AWE, for our “God is a consuming fire”. In the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, only worship modesty, pious care, godly fear and awe are acceptable to the King. In Romans 14:17-18, we read:
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men”.
You are a royal of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Royals do not live “by heart” – anyhow. Find out from the word of God the lifestyle which is acceptable and pleasing to your King, Jesus Christ.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
How do you conduct yourself as a royal in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ? Are you pleasing your King with acceptable worship?
PRAYER:
Father, help me to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. May my words, actions and attitudes magnify my King and draw others to him in absolute surrender. Amen
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: SERVANTS
The word "servants" comes from the Greek word doulos (δοῦλος), which originally meant a "slave" or "bondservant"—someone entirely submitted to the will of their master. Over time, it evolved to signify a devoted follower or servant, emphasizing loyalty and obedience.
The term doulos is used frequently in the New Testament to describe believers' relationship with God and Christ, highlighting the idea of willing service, submission, and total devotion to the Lord’s will. For example, Paul often refers to himself as a "servant" (or doulos) of Christ (Romans 1:1), illustrating the complete surrender required of believers.
In John 18:36, Jesus highlights that His servants would not fight for His release, as His kingdom is spiritual, not earthly. As servants of Christ's kingdom, believers are called to submit fully to His authority, engaging in spiritual service through prayer, truth, and righteousness, rather than physical force. Our loyalty to Christ as King reflects a life of obedience and devotion to His will.
Reflections: How are you living as a servant of Christ in His kingdom? Are your actions aligned with your calling to serve Him faithfully and loyally?

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