Responding to Christ's Invitation

Grace to You.org ^ | 1993 | John MacArthur, Grace Community Church

[metmom]

"Thy kingdom come" (Matt. 6:10).

The only acceptable response to Christ’s offer of the Kingdom is to receive it, value it, and pursue it!

Many people who think they're kingdom citizens will someday be shocked to discover they aren't. In Matthew 7:21 Jesus says, "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven." Some people think highly of the kingdom but never receive the King. They call Jesus "Lord" but don't do His will. Lip service won't do. You must receive the King and His kingdom (John 1:12).

You must also value the kingdom. In Matthew 13:44 Jesus says, "The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure." In verses 45-46 He compares it to a pearl that was so valuable, a merchant sold all he had to purchase it. That's the value of the kingdom. It's worth any sacrifice you have to make.

Finally, you must continually pursue the kingdom. In Matthew 6:33 Jesus says, "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." In context He was discussing the basic necessities of life such as food and clothing, reminding His disciples that their Heavenly Father knew their needs and would supply them if they simply maintained the proper priorities. Unbelievers characteristically worry about meeting their own needs (v. 32), but believers are to be characterized by trusting in God and pursuing His kingdom.

Christ offers His kingdom to everyone (Matt. 28:19). The only acceptable response is to receive it, value it, and pursue it. Is that your response? Have you received the kingdom? Is it precious to you? I trust it is. If so, rejoice and serve your King well today. Make His kingdom your top priority. If not, turn from your sin and submit your life to Christ, who loves you and longs to receive you into His eternal kingdom.

Suggestions for Prayer

Thank God for the heavenly citizenship you hold (Phil. 3:20-21). Ask Him to help you keep His priorities uppermost in your life. For Further Study

Read Revelation 21 and 22. As you do, think of what eternity with Christ will be like. What aspects of eternity do you especially look forward to?

[metmom]

Studying God’s Word ping

[blue-duncan]

His offer is irresistible!

Psalm 22:9-10, Yet you are he who took me from the womb;
you made me trust you at my mother’s breasts.
On you was I cast from my birth,
and from my mother’s womb you have been my God.

[unlearner]

“His offer is irresistible”

If His offer / invitation is to all, but only a few are saved, then it is not irresistible.

I’m pretty sure John MacArthur is a Calvinist. That position teaches that the grace of God for salvation is irresistible and only given to the elect. But, in this theological framework, the offer / invitation of salvation is made to all.

I personally am unpersuaded by Calvinism, though I admit there is an internal consistency that aligns with the Bible on many issues.

Regardless, understanding Calvinism is not essential to salvation. Hearing and believing the Gospel is essential. The Gospel is simple enough that even children can understand. The theology of salvation is so deep that even wise and learned do not fully comprehend it.