Subjected to Violence
After 400 years of divine silence, God broke through with explosive force when John the Baptist appeared. Jesus declared that even the least in God's kingdom is greater than John because greatness is measured by proximity to the King, not achievements. The kingdom advances with unstoppable momentum, but many miss it by clinging to expectations instead of accepting what God has already fulfilled. Rather than critiquing God's methods from the sidelines, we're called to participate in His kingdom movement.
More Than a Prophet
Even John the Baptist questioned God's plan from prison. If the prophet chosen before birth to prepare the way for Jesus struggled with doubt, what does that say about our own questions? Sometimes God's work doesn't come in the package we expected. Are you missing His activity because it doesn't look like your expectations?
Do Unto Others
You can't take off your Christianity like a hat when you leave church. When you walk into any room, Christ walks in with you. But here's the real question: Are you trying to manage where God is present in your life, or are you letting Him transform every area? Your treatment of people is the visible proof of your invisible devotion.
The Enemy in Your House
Sometimes the enemy isn't operating in your city - sometimes the enemy is operating in your circle. Jesus said He came to bring a sword, not peace. What does this mean for your family relationships when you choose to follow Him wholeheartedly? The gospel doesn't divide because it's broken - it divides because it exposes what's broken in us.
The Prince of Demons
If God notices every sparrow that falls and numbers every hair on your head, why do we struggle to trust Him with our daily challenges? What fear have you come into agreement with that keeps you from living out your calling?
Flogged in the Synagogue
Jesus prepared his disciples for the harsh realities of kingdom mission, warning them they would face opposition like sheep among wolves. He instructed them to be shrewd as serpents yet harmless as doves, combining wisdom with innocence. When facing trials, God would provide the right words through His Spirit. Jesus warned that even families might turn against them, as the kingdom exposes divided loyalties.