Sermon Notes: Seek First His Kingdom

Focus on how seeking first the Kingdom of God applies to students, along with the original contexts of work, family, and daily life. 

Revised Sermon Outline: “Seek First the Kingdom of God in All Aspects of Life”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:28‭-‬33‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [28]  “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. [29] Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. [30] If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 

    I. Introduction 

Central Verse: Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” 

    II. Understanding the Kingdom of God

  • Defining the Kingdom in a biblical context
  • Cross-references: Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17
  • ‭‭Luke‬ ‭17:20‭-‬21‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [20] Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, [21] nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”
  • ‭‭Romans‬ ‭14:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [17] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 

    III. The Priority of the Kingdom

  • The concept of “seeking first” explained
  • Cross-references: Matthew 6:25-32 (above), Philippians 3:20
  • ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3:20‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 

    IV. Seeking the Kingdom in Work and Studies

  • Applying Kingdom principles in professional and academic pursuits
  • Cross-references: Colossians 3:23-24
  • For students: Integrating faith in learning, ethical conduct, and academic integrity
  • ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:23‭-‬24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [23] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 

    V. Prioritizing God in Family and Relationships

  • Faith-filled family life and Christ-like relationships
  • Cross-references: Proverbs 22:6, Ephesians 5:25
  • For students: Honoring parents, nurturing faith at home, and building godly friendships

    VI. Living Kingdom Values in Daily Life

  • Implementing spiritual principles in everyday choices
  • Cross-references: James 2:15-17, Galatians 5:22-23
  • For students: Balancing responsibilities, demonstrating kindness and justice in social interactions
  • ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5:22‭-‬23‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

    VII. Conclusion

  • Encouragement to continually embrace Kingdom values

Seeking first the Kingdom of God encompasses every aspect of life, including work, family, studies, and daily tasks. It involves aligning our priorities and actions with God’s will and principles in these areas: 

  • In Work and Studies: Whether in a professional setting or as a student, it’s about performing with integrity, excellence, and a service-minded attitude. For students, this extends to academic integrity, ethical conduct, and seeing education as a means to grow not just intellectually but also spiritually.
  • In Family and Relationships: Creating a God-centered home and nurturing relationships that reflect Christ’s love, whether it’s in the parent-child dynamic, among siblings, or with friends and peers. For students, this includes honoring their parents, contributing to a faith-filled home environment, and cultivating godly friendships.
  • In Daily Life and Social Interactions: Making choices that reflect kingdom values like compassion, generosity, and justice in everyday life. For students, this means balancing academic, relationships, and social responsibilities with a commitment to living out their faith in practical ways.

Seeking God’s kingdom first is about living a life where faith shapes our work, studies, family life, and daily interactions. It’s a journey that transforms our experiences, guiding students and adults alike in cultivating a life that testifies to God’s grace and presence. 

  • Love and Compassion: Show kindness and understanding to everyone you encounter.
  • Integrity: Be honest and truthful in your words and actions.
  • Forgiveness: Be willing to forgive others and seek forgiveness when necessary.
  • Gratitude: Cultivate a heart of thankfulness in all situations.
  • Patience: Practice patience in difficult circumstances and with difficult people.
  • Humility: Recognize your own limitations and value others’ contributions.
  • Generosity: Share your resources, time, and talents with those in need.
  • Faithfulness: Stay committed to your beliefs and promises.
  • Self-Control: Exercise discipline over your impulses and desires.
  • Justice: Stand up for fairness and equality for all people.
  • Peacefulness: Seek peaceful resolutions and avoid unnecessary conflict.
  • Hope: Maintain a positive outlook and trust in a better future.
  • Service: Look for opportunities to serve others selflessly.
  • Stewardship: Care responsibly for the environment and resources entrusted to you.
  • Prayerfulness: Incorporate prayer and reflection into daily life.
  • Empathy: Try to understand and share the feelings of others.
  • Respect: Show respect for everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
  • Community Building: Foster connections and support within your community.
  • Mindfulness: Be present in the moment and aware of your impact on others.
  • Discernment: Seek wisdom and guidance in making decisions.

 These principles, rooted in spiritual teachings, can profoundly influence daily decision-making and interactions, leading to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.