It Is Your Father's Good Pleasure to Give You the Kingdom | John Piper

Deep Dive into All That Jesus Commanded by John Piper - Lay Up for Yourselves Treasures in Heaven - It Is Your Father's Good Pleasure to Give You the KingdomThe phrase "little flock" used by Jesus is a term of affection and care, assuring His followers that despite their smallness or weakness, God's power and love will protect them because they are precious. It also emphasizes that God's goodness is not dependent on their greatness, removing any reason to fear based on perceived inadequacy.What primarily frees us from fear is the truth about God's benevolent nature as revealed through Jesus. Understanding God as a "Father" who delights to give the kingdom eliminates the fear that He is ill-disposed or begrudging. This relationship signifies that believers are heirs of His kingdom, freeing them from the anxiety of not receiving ultimate blessings and from the burdens of "taxation." This profound truth about God's eager generosity is also the key to liberating believers from materialism and the fearful slavery to possessions.Giving sacrificially powerfully demonstrates this liberation. It shows a freedom from the love of money and its associated fears, redirecting focus outwardly on the joy of making others glad. This generosity aims for beneficiaries to see the beauty of Jesus and share in heavenly reward, thereby enlarging the giver's own joy in heaven through a shared experience. Such giving reflects a deep belief in God's "good pleasure" to give the kingdom, trusting in His unmerited favor.God promises to give His followers the kingdom. This is an inheritance and a freely given gift that cannot be earned or bought. The "kingdom" means the omnipotent rule and authority of the King of the universe will be engaged forever on behalf of the "little flock." Importantly, this promise is not for earthly money, popularity, or security, but for God's ultimate care, blessing, and communion, promising eternal joy at His table.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730