In this week’s message, we explore the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms—and the surprising promise of a kingdom that will never end. From the Babylonian exile to Pentecost, we’re reminded that God is building something new through Christ: a people united not by nation or power, but by grace, baptism, and the Holy Spirit. Join us as we reflect on the powerful truth that no matter what kingdoms rise or fall, God is with us, God is for us, and His kingdom stands forever.

Primary Old Testament Texts

• Genesis 45: 5–8 — Joseph explaining that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life during the famine. Used to show God working through nations and rulers for His purposes.
• Jeremiah 25: 9 — “I will summon… my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…” Used to illustrate God using foreign empires to discipline Israel.
• Isaiah 45: 1 — God calling Cyrus “his anointed” and using him to subdue nations. Referenced to show God working through rulers outside Israel.
• Isaiah 21: 2 — “Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!” Used in the context of empires rising and falling under God’s sovereignty.
• Isaiah 49: 6 — “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles…” A key verse explaining Israel’s role in bringing salvation to the nations through the Messiah.
• Daniel 2: 44 — God establishing a kingdom that “will never be destroyed.” Central to the sermon’s contrast between earthly empires and God’s eternal kingdom.

New Testament References

• The Gospel According to John 18: 36 — Jesus: “My kingdom is not of this world.” Used to explain the radically different nature of Christ’s kingdom.
• The Gospel According to Matthew 28: 19–20 — The Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” Framed as the mission of God’s new kingdom after Christ’s resurrection.
• Acts of the Apostles 2:1 –41 — Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, speaking in many languages, Peter’s sermon, and the baptism of 3,000 people. This is one of the sermon’s central texts.
• Acts of the Apostles 8: 26–39 — Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, especially the eunuch’s question: “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” Used to emphasize the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom.
• Psalms 46:1 –7 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble…” Used to reinforce the permanence and safety of God’s kingdom.