KINGDOM OF GOD ,The Royal Family (Part 1)- Study Note: The Family Foretold

KINGDOM OF GOD ,The Royal Family (Part 1)- Study Note: The Family Foretold

The Jews expected the Messiah, but He took them by surprise when He came. Why? They had focused on fleshly matters; but Jesus came with a spiritual focus. In the same way, many people are surprised by the church in the NT. They think God's prophetic plan points to the greatness of fleshly Israel, and says nothing at all about the spiritual family called "the church." They reason this way: "God foretold the coming of a kingdom. But Jesus came and started the church instead. Therefore the kingdom must have been delayed or postponed until a later time." If God's plan is likened to a railway line, they see fleshly Israel as the main train on God's track. But that train has been delayed for a while, and pulled over to a siding. Meanwhile a train called "the church" is using the track. But that is a surprise to them. They think that no "church" train was scheduled (i.e. no prophet predicted the church). When the unscheduled "church" train passes by, then God will get back to His real business. He will put His scheduled train Jewish glory back onto the main track where it belongs.

One leading author calls the church, "an entirely new, unheralded, and unexpected program." Another writes, "From the moment Christ bowed His head and yielded up His spirit to the Father, all the glories of the kingdom spoken of by the Old Testament seers and prophets have been held in abeyance [i.e. delayed]. The prophetic clock stopped at Calvary. Not one tick has been heard since." Many books and movies about Christ's return rest on this view of prophecy. So we should ask, "Did the OT prophets predict the church?" If they did, many people must rethink their ideas about the kingdom, Israel, and the church.

Study Note: The Family Foretold

Foretold By Isaiah Consider Isaiah's most famous chapter, Isa 53. All agree that this chapter, along with many OT passages, foretold the suffering of God's Son (Lk 24:25-26,45-46). Did the prophets also foresee the result, the people His suffering would rescue? Of course they did. That was what the suffering was all about saving people.

...by His wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all (Isa 53:5-6).

Who were the "we" and the "us" in that prophecy? Everyone was included, since Jesus died for all (Jn 3:16; Heb 2:9). The prophecy comes true especially for those after the cross, for they can actively place their trust in Jesus and turn to Him for healing. Thus Peter applies Isa 53 to Christ's one flock:

By His wounds you have been healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls (1 Pet 2:24-25).

The "we" of OT prophecy (Isa 53) turns out to be, at its sharpest focus, the "you" of the NT church (1 Pet 2). While Peter does not use the word "church," he uses other words for the church. In the same chapter, Peter uses "you" in these collective ways: "a spiritual house... a holy priesthood...a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God" (1 Pet 2:5,9). In family terms, Peter calls the church"the brotherhood" (1 Pet 2:17). This is the family that Isaiah foresaw 700 years earlier. Isaiah predicted that Christ would die and live again to "see His offspring and prolong His days" (Isa 53:10). Who are "His offspring"? Jesus died unmarried and childless, so "the offspring" are the fruit of His suffering, the "many" He justifies (Isa 53:11-12). Yes, the prophecy of Christ's death did show its result, the family of God, also known as "the church" (1 Tim 3:15).

Foretold By David Ps 22 was like Isa 53. It foretold the crucifixion in amazing detail. It plunged into the depths of Christ's despair. Then it suddenly burst into a victory celebration: "I will declare Your name to My brothers; in the congregation I will praise You" (Ps 22:22). Heb 2:12 quotes this verse and shows how Christ fulfills it. Who does Christ call "My brothers"? Those saved and sanctified by His death, the "many sons" He brings to glory (Heb 2:10-11). Thus we know that Ps 22 predicted the family of God produced by Christ's death.

Is the word for "church" present in Heb 2:12? Yes, for the word ekklesia is there, and it is the Greek word for "church," "congregation" or "assembly" (all have the same meaning). When David wrote Ps 22, the "congregation" was the Israelite assembly. But Heb 2:12 proves that Ps 22 looked ahead to the crucifixion and to its outcome. The ekklesia that followed after the crucifixion was Christ's ekklesia, the gathering of those He saves. It is the same group Jesus had in mind when He too foretold His death, and promised, "I will build My ekklesia" (Mt 16:18).

Foretold By Moses Another famous prophecy of Christ is Dt 18:15-19. Moses promised the coming of the Prophet like Moses. Peter quoted from that prophecy to warn Jews,

Anyone who does not listen to Him [Christ] will be completely cut off from among His people (Acts 3:23).

Who are "His people"? As Peter applied this prophecy about Christ, "His people" referred to "the church," which was already growing rapidly even as Peter spoke (Acts 2:41,47; 4:4; 5:11). "His people" could not refer to fleshly Israel in the sense of that large majority that rejects Christ for they were being "cut off." Peter was saying just what Jesus Himself foretold in Mt 21:43.

The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit .

"The kingdom" was taken away from unrepentant Israelites. "The kingdom" was given to "a people" who "produce its fruit" of repentance. That new people began with saved Jews (Acts 3:26; 2:36-42), but soon spread to Samaritans (Acts 8:12), then to Gentiles (Acts 2:8,39; 10:1-43; 11:18-21). The apostles called this new people "the church," and they confirmed that its members were in "the kingdom" (Col 1:12-13; 4:11; Rom 14:17; 1 Th 2:12; Heb 12:28; Rev 1:6,9; Acts 8:12; 19:8; 20:25; 28:23). Many prophets foretold this kingdom and its people (Ps 2:1-6; 45:6; 110:1-3; 1 Sa 7:16; 1 Ch 17:14; Isa 9:6-7; Dan 2:44; 7:13- 14,18,22,27; Mt 3:2; 4:17; Mk 9:1).

Did the OT foretell that Gentiles believers would be included? Frequently, beginning with the famous prophecies to Abraham (Gen 12:3; 22:18; 49:10; Dt 32:43; Ps 2:8; 18:49; 22:27; 72:17; 117:1; Isa 2:2; 9:7; 11:9-10; 40:5; 42:1-6; 45:22; 49:6; 52:15; 55:5; 56:6-8; 60:3; 65:1; 66:19,23; Jer 3:17; 4:2; 16:19; Dan 2:35; 7:14; Hos 2:23; Am 9:11-12; Mic 4:3; Hag 2:7; Zech 2:11; 8:22-23; 9:10; 14:16; Mal 1:11). Most significantly, when the NT quotes any of these prophecies, it shows that they are fulfilled by Gentiles entering the church. (For examples, see how Acts 15 interprets Am 9; how Rom 9 interprets Hos 1 and 2; how Rom 10 interprets Dt 32 and Isa 65; how Rom 15 interprets Ps 18, Dt 32, Ps 117, Isa 11 and Isa 52; and how Gal 3 interprets Gen 12.)

Foretold By All the Prophets Earlier we noted Peter's inspired words in Acts 3:23. At that very time, while identifying "His people" as Christ's people, Peter went on to say in Acts 3:24,

Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days.

"These days" certainly included that very day when Peter spoke. Peter would not agree, therefore, with the modern writer that says, "The prophetic clock stopped at Calvary. Not one tick has been heard since." Peter himself shows that prophecy's clock kept right on ticking (being fulfilled) in the events immediately after Calvary.

It kept ticking when Christ rose from the grave, for prophecy predicted that resurrection (Isa 53:10- 11; Ps 16:8-11; Acts 2:24-31; 13:30-37). It kept ticking when Christ ascended to reign beside His Father, for prophecy predicted that rise and that reign (Ps 110:1-4; Acts 2:24-36; Heb 7:21-22). It kept ticking when Christ sent the Spirit, for prophecy predicted that (Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:16-21). It kept ticking when Good News was preached to the Jews first, for prophecy predicted that blessing (Gen 22:18 with Acts 3:25-26; Isa 52:7 with Rom 10:15-16; Acts 13:32-33; 26:22-23; Rom 9:4). It kept ticking when most Jews rejected the Good News, for prophecy predicted their reaction (Hab 1:5 with Acts 13:40-41; Isa 53:1 with Rom 10:16; Ps 118:22 and Isa 8:14 with 1 Pet 2:7-8). It kept ticking when Gentiles were included in the church, for prophecy predicted their inclusion (Acts 26:22-23; Rom 15:9-12; Isa 49:6 with Acts 13:46-48; Am 9:11-12 with Acts 15:15-18; Isa 65:1 with Rom 10:20; Isa 29:10 with Rom 11:7-8; Ps 69:22-23 with Rom 11:9-10; Hos 1:10; 2:23 with Rom 9:24-26 and 1 Pet 2:10). Indeed, the clock will keep on ticking while Christ's kingdom increases, for prophecy predicted that continual progress (Isa 9:6-7; Dan 2:35,44; Mt 13:31-33; Ps 110:1 with 1 Cor 15:22-28).

No wonder Peter repeats the key truth of Acts 3:24. He writes to members of the church in 1 Pet 1:10-12:

The prophets... spoke of the grace that was to come to you... It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the Gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

Again, OT prophets served "you" of the NT church. The family chosen "in Christ" was truly on God's mind from the beginning, and what was on God's mind was also on the lips and pens of His prophets. This means that modern writers and readers must re-think the importance of the church. It is not an unexpected train ("an entirely new, unheralded, and unexpected program"). It was properly scheduled, and properly announced by the prophets. As Eph 2 emphasizes, the church belongs on the main track of God's "eternal purpose." Indeed, the church is the vehicle that displays God's wisdom in the most enduring way, for Eph 2 ends by saying, "To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations" (Eph 2:20- 21). What shall we say to the fact that the church came at the very time the kingdom was to come? Only people who focus on physical power find any conflict there. They want a political kingdom for a fleshly race, and find a spiritual church instead. If they change their focus, they may notice that the kingdom and the church are connected and run together on the same track.

Dear Members or Friends,

True Disciples or Leaders and Rulers

Lord Jesus' first disciples included His apostles. But they were not the last disciples, for He trained them to train others.

"Make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20).

Jesus our King did not say, "Make believers." A person may have some sort of belief, but never become a disciple. Our King Jesus does not say, "Make worshipers." People may give prayers and offerings without being disciples. All disciples believe and worship, but not all 'believers' and 'worshipers' are disciples. Our savior and King Jesus commands, "Make disciples." That term, as commonly used at that time, means, "Train learners who are committed to following their Teacher's instruction and example." Lord and our healer Jesus reinforces the meaning of continuing learning by saying, "...teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). Some refer to Matthew 28:20 as the second half of the Great Commission. It may be more difficult to fulfill, but it is essential for spiritual health as you "grow up in your salvation." Hearing and obeying Christ our Lord and Savior, these are like air to the disciple. To stop breathing that air is to cease being a disciple.

INTRODUCTION AND TESTIMONY

Grace Kingdom Ministry international(G.K.M.I) was birthed in 2011 December in Buru Buru Phase 5 ,Nairobi,Kenya when the founder or Visionary Pastor Stephen Olita met the Lord Jesus Christ and gave him a vision of the Kingdom of God, to preach the Kingdom of God to all Nations Mathew 24:14 and to teach about our Lord Jesus Christ as we to raise leaders in Africa starting with Kenya, Africa and the Whole world. Acts 28:31, Philippians 4:13.

Grace kingdom ministry international is a Church, Leadership and Humanitarian organization with it headquarter in Nairobi, Kenya in Kiambiu Slum in Buru Buru phase one on outering road. We are mandated to address both spiritual, mental or emotional and physical needs for the oppressed people in our society including Widows, Orphans and disables, James 1:26-27.

We have seen and we are still seeing all kinds of crimes, Sexual abuse, murder,prostitution,adultery,rape,gang warfare Galatians 5:16-26 in our streets taking toll on our people especially targeting our young People with drugs and drug dealers are influencing our youth or our young People. Now is our responsibility as a Church to invest all our efforts into Sports, Business, Arts, Films and Music, Talents, Skills and gifts search and to bring our young People out of crime in our streets to our Lord Jesus Christ and to know Him better through these activities so they can discover their Purpose, Passion, Potential and their destiny which is a hope and a future.

OUR VISION-Transforming followers into leaders and leaders into agent of change (Raising Leaders and Rulers, shaping vision, influencing society and culture through Christ).Philippians 4:13

OUR MISSION-Preaching the kingdom of God, Teaching about Lord Jesus Christ and saving the lost at any cost. Mathew 24:14

Our Church as Leadership organization is mandated to train and raise over 3 Billions disciples or Leaders in Nairobi, Kenya ,the whole Africa and the whole world between now 2019 to 2035 and beyond. These trained Leaders will in return train others Disciples close to over 3 Billion and these circles of Multiplication goes on and on by grace and will or mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ as we preach the kingdom of God and teaching about Lord Jesus Christ as we follow His instruction to fulfill the great commission in Mathew 28:18-20.This is the main core of our vision and mission of our organization and we are looking for resources to fulfill this goal and plan from our Partners and well-wishers around the World including you and others.

SUBJECT:KENYA,AFRICA and The WHOLE WORLD are IN NEED OF YOU.Take action now.Don't watch things happening.make a difference.

WE Grace Kingdom Ministry International(G.K.M.I),WE are trying to plant our over 11 Churches and Orphanages(James 1:26-27) in Kenya,Malawi,India,Pakistan,Uganda,Ghana,South Africa,Tanzania,DRC Congo,Zimbabwe,Somali(al-Shabaab),Nigeria(Boko Haram), Sudan (South and North) , Philippines,Haiti ,Zambia,Australia, Onalaska Washington State USA for the Glory of GOD to fulfill the Great Commission Mandate in MATHEW 28:18-20 at a cost of over USD 7 Million.Acts 1:8,Acts 9:31.Acts 12;24,Acts 16:5,Revelation 2:9-10, Revelation 3:7-13.

Our vision and Mission is focused beyond 2035 if we will be alive by that time but if not we are planning it now for the generation now and the coming new future generation. As per below stated, We have two phases,Phase one is for Kenya to raise over 20 million leaders and Phase Two is the whole of Africa and the whole world to raise over 3 Billion leaders from now to 2035 and beyond. We believe we will fulfill this great commission by reaching out to the whole World or Nations by the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ as He commanded us to preach in Mathew 24:14 and Mathew 28:18-20 if these resources are met as suggested.

We have targeted to raise over USD 7 Million to plants or build the following Churches in Nairobi and the whole Kenya ,Africa and the whole world namely,Eastleigh,South B and C and along Ngong road ,Kibera area,Eastern province in Thika Makongeni, Nyatta plateau,Machakos,Nakuru,Kitale,Kisii,Homa Bay,Migori,Kuria Land,Kisumu,Siaya,Busia, Malawi,India,Pakistan,Uganda,Ghana,South Africa,Tanzania,DRC Congo,Zimbabwe,Somali(al-Shabaab), Nigeria(Boko Haram), Sudan (South and North),Philippines,Haiti ,Zambia,Australia, Onalaska Washington State USA. These Churches will include all the necessary facilities and resources for training Leaders or Disciples with also centers for feeding for the orphans and other vulnerable Children. Our own Radio ,TV station,Books,Publishing Company, Print Media, Universities, Holy Bible Colleges and institutes,Banks,Media centers and institutes for music and film making, Hotels resorts and Business buildings. and other systems of influence for the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 1:8,Acts 9:31.Acts12;24,Acts 16:5,Revelation 2:9-10, Revelation 3:7-13,Galatians 3:14,26-29.

Any support to help us raise the needed funds as mentioned in the above for the planting or building of these Churches in Nairobi ,Kenya, Africa and the Whole world as explained in the above will be will be honored and appreciated for the sake of saving souls for the kingdom of God to fulfill the great commission of our Lord Jesus Christ, Mathew 28:18-20.

WE need Partners, Holy Bibles, Financial Support, Lands in the Cities, Towns or Villages near you to do this worthy noble cause. Acts 4:28-37.

The following are our Church Bank details. Bank Name: Kenya Commercial Bank Swift Code:KCBKENX Bank Code:100 Branch Code:0107 ACCOUNT NUMBER:1253041768.

Also you can use Western Union Money Transfer or Money Gram addressed to Stephen Olita,+254722761587,email:pastorolita@gmail.com,gracekingdomministry@gmail.com,pastorolita@yahoo.com.Please also do send me the copy of the Bank Slip to enable me access the Money and do the will of GOD. James 1:26-27 New International Version (Niv),Luke 6:38,2 Corinthians 9:5-15.

SEE WHAT THE GLORY OR GRACE OF GOD HAS DONE.https://web.facebook.com/groups/1773715129514690/ https://www.facebook.com/GRACE-KINGDOM-MINISTRY-521008011400445/

THIS IS THE REASON WHY YOU SHOULD PARTNER WITH US AND DONATE ANY RESOURCES INCLUDING MONEY. https://web.facebook.com/groups/1773715129514690/ https://www.facebook.com/GRACE-KINGDOM-MINISTRY-521008011400445/\

Contact me for more information Pastor Stephen Olita,+254722761587,+254734939308 or email me:pastorolita@gmail.com,gracekingdomministry@gmail.com,pastorolita@yahoo.com

With regards Pastor Stephen Olita

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For free Kingdom Counseling and Prayers call +254722761587,+254734939308 Or email:pastorolita@gmail.com,gracekingdomministry@gmail.com,pastorolita@yahoo.com

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