Looking for the Kingdom of God
Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of living in love and righteousness while preparing for the coming of God's Kingdom through unity and good works.
Clement of Rome preaches about the importance of expecting the kingdom of God with love and righteousness, emphasizing the unity and truthfulness in relationships as a reflection of the kingdom's arrival. He highlights the unity of two individuals as one through speaking truth and having genuine unity of soul. Clement also stresses the importance of manifesting one's soul through good works, aligning inner beliefs with outward actions to reflect the kingdom. Lastly, he discusses the significance of seeing beyond gender roles and treating each other with purity and respect to usher in the kingdom of God.
Text
Let us expect, therefore, hour by hour, the kingdom of God in love and righteousness, since we know not the day of the appearing of God. For the Lord Himself, being asked by one when His kingdom would come, replied, When two shall be one, that which is without as that which is within, and the male with the female, neither male nor female. Now, two are one when we speak the truth one to another, and there is unfeignedly one soul in two bodies.
And that which is without as that which is within means this: He calls the soul that which is within, and the body that which is without. As, then, your body is visible to sight, so also let your soul be manifest by good works.
Andthe male, with the female, neither male nor female, this He says, that brother seeing sister may have no thought concerning her asfemale, and that she may have no thought concerning him as male. If you do these things, says He, the kingdom of my Father shall come.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Expectation of the Kingdom - Living in Love and Righteousness - Understanding the Timing of God's Kingdom
- II points: - Unity in Truth - The Concept of Oneness - Manifesting the Soul through Good Works
- III points: - Gender Equality in the Kingdom - Overcoming Gender Bias - Brotherly and Sisterly Relationships
- IV points: - The Role of Good Works - Preparing for the Kingdom - Living as Citizens of the Kingdom
Key Quotes
“Let us expect, therefore, hour by hour, the kingdom of God in love and righteousness.” — Clement of Rome
“Now, two are one when we speak the truth one to another, and there is unfeignedly one soul in two bodies.” — Clement of Rome
“If you do these things, says He, the kingdom of my Father shall come.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- Live each day with the expectation of God's Kingdom, focusing on love and righteousness.
- Practice unity in your relationships by speaking truthfully and treating others with respect.
- Engage in good works that reflect your inner character and readiness for the Kingdom.