The Kingdom’s Power Pyramid

April 16, 2018/CathyChung/

Topics to Dig Into

Who is He?

What is God like? Who is this man Jesus? How can we understand the Holy Spirit?

The Visible God

God is present and active in our lives, often working through people and ‘coincidences’. Thank and praise Him!

Making it Practical

Following Jesus in today’s world can be challenging. But living according to Jesus’ teaching is incredibly worthwhile. Call it life-changing.

He Knows You

God’s love is unconditional. He knows our hearts and continually invites us into relationship.

Ah-Ha!

Learning about the culture and language of Bible times can reveal new meaning in familiar scriptures. Let’s call them ah-ha moments.

For you granted [your Son] authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.

John 17:1,4,19(NIV)

Jesus had authority over all people.

Yet instead of wielding his power to stay on top of the power pyramid, Jesus elevated the sick, poor, grieving, humble and persecuted. He declared blessings on the generous, compassionate, peacemaker, and believer.

We have power too.

Our socio-economic and educational statuses often position us within the power pyramid, but we have power in every human interaction. Our words and tone of voice can build or destroy. Our choice to see and hear someone defines their position above or below us.

What did Jesus do with His power?

Jesus paid particular attention to the outcast of His day. He listened, taught, healed, touched, and made himself known to these people. Those who were confident in their status weren’t changed by Jesus’ power. They didn’t comprehend His teaching. They weren’t healed.

In God’s kingdom, the last will be first.

After the God of the universe stooped to touch dirty feet and tenderly, lovingly do a servant’s task, he silently accepted unjust accusations and brutal punishment. He withheld his power and allowed these events to occur with a specific purpose – so that you and I could approach God and have a personal relationship with Him.

For them Jesus sanctified himself so that they too could be sanctified.

Discover the Christian meaning of power and learn how to use it for the good of others. –Richard J. Foster (tweet this)

How do you use power? How can you support the Kingdom’s power structure?

#SeedsofScripture #followJesus #discipleship #power

2 Comments

Denise on April 17, 2018 at 12:46 PM

Cathy – this is a great statement: Those who were confident in their status weren’t changed by Jesus’ power. Great word for today!

Reply
- CathyChung on April 19, 2018 at 1:09 AM
  
  Thanks for your comment Denise. It's completely upside down, isn't it?
  
  Reply

Spend a few minutes to plant a quick Seed. Or stay longer and plant a whole garden.

Each post is a brief scriptural thought that will grow as you let it take root in your thoughts. If you have time, dig into one area of interest and plant a whole garden.

Receive Seeds of Scripture by email.

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:105

Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

Ephesians 3:17 (NLT)

I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.

John 15:5 (NLT)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.