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Ep. 49: Living as Citizens of Christ's Kingdom: Engaged in the World, but Not of It
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Summary:
Pastor Earl Wallace explores the concept of being citizens of Christ's kingdom while residing in this world, drawing insights from two parables: Luke 19:11-27 (the parable of the ruler entrusting minas to his servants) and Matthew 25:14-30 (the parable of the talents). These parables emphasize that as members of Christ's kingdom, believers are called to be "in but not of" this world.
In both parables, Christ illustrates that His servants are endowed with gifts, talents, and abilities to use in this world. These resources are to be multiplied for the purpose of advancing God's ownership of the world. The parables reveal that some servants excel in fulfilling their master's expectations and are richly rewarded, while others fall short and face dire consequences.
A common thread in these parables is the fear that paralyzes the underperforming servants. One servant in Luke 19:21 expresses fear of his master's exacting nature, while the underperforming servant in Matthew 25:25 admits to hiding his talent out of fear. In both cases, Christ responds sternly to their fear-driven inaction.
The parables teach the principle that "to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away." This underscores the importance of faithful stewardship of the resources and opportunities entrusted to believers by God.
Furthermore, the parables highlight the severe consequences for those who fail to meet the minimum acceptable standard. Luke 19:27 speaks of judgment and consequences for those who rejected the ruler's reign, while Matthew 25:29-30 portrays the expulsion of the unfaithful servant into outer darkness.
Pastor Wallace emphasizes that fear has no place in the lives of believers, as perfect love casts out fear. By operating in faith and actively engaging the world with the resources and values of their true, eternal home—Heaven—believers can have a significant impact and find themselves lifted up in liberty.
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