One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, “When will the KINGDOM OF GOD come?”Jesus replied, “The KINGDOM OF GOD can’t be detected by visible signs. ²¹ You won’t be able to say, ‘Here it is!’ or ‘It’s over there!’ For the KINGDOM OF GOD is already among you (WITHIN YOU).” (Luke 17:20-21)

• The Pharisees were very intrigued by “The Kingdom of God” and were seeking answers

What is the Kingdom of God?

• This is how Jesus explained the Kingdom of God: It’s within you! I am the Kingdom of God!
• The Greek word for “Kingdom of God” –  God’s Supreme and Powerful Rule

How do we access The Kingdom of God or God’s Supreme Rule?- John 3:1-7

ACCESS: NEW BIRTH

 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live (DEAD TO SELF), but Christ lives in me (ALIVE IN CHRIST). So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

• This new birth starts with us receiving the forgiveness of our sins through Jesus Christ and by crowing Him Lord and Savior of our lives
• This new life or new birth starts with us dying to self

ACCESS: SEE & ENTER

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are BORN AGAIN, you CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD.” (vv 3)Jesus replied, “I assure you, NO ONE CAN ENTER THE KINGDOM OF GOD without being born of water and the Spirit. (vv5)

• Almost 2 different level of access: See & Enter. It can be a reflection of our Christian walk
• This kingdom of God, you can see it. You can be familiar with it; You can be acquainted with it, You can be aware of it.
• Jesus is saying: You can also take it a step further- far being just seeing- You can Enter In!
• Can that describe our Christian experience? We can stand on the outskirt: see and enjoy. But we can take it to another new level by entering in and participate.

ACCESS: EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES

For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son (ACCESS), so that EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM will not perish but have ETERNAL LIFE. God sent his Son into the world not to judge (CONDEMN) the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17)

• Not just the Jews but also the gentiles- Everyone
• Eternal access without judgment and condemnation

CONCLUSION:

• What is the Holy Spirit saying to you through this message?
• Have you access His Kingdom?  Have you been born again?
• Make this Christmas all about  Jesus. About Him giving you access to His Kingdom.