Rebels to King Jesus are found both outside and inside the kingdom. Many call him Lord but will we do his word?

We are tempted to be anxious because we believe lies about who God is, about his saving work and about ourselves. We need to remember the true Word of the Lord.

The spread of the gospel cannot be stopped.

Christmas is the good news that the dragon-slayer has arrived.

Advent is the time to remember we wait for God's returning king. We must receive him, dependant on his mercy, delighting in his presence and content in his honour.

God's king will return to his kingdom - how will we receive him?

In God's kingdom justice must be served. In God's kingdom the bonds of love cannot be broken. Where can justice and love meet?

Absalom's rebellion against David requires justice for the son, David loves. A tension that is only fully resolved with great King David's greater Son, the Lord Jesus, at the cross.

In meeting the Lord Jesus we reveal who we are. Disciples stay with and serve king Jesus, while others manipulate, curse and fail him. True discipleship though diverse, has a distinctive pattern, activity and grace.