“My Kingdom vs. God’s Kingdom”
Goal: To help us recognize where personal control and self-rule compete with God’s reign in our lives, and to move toward surrender and trust in God’s Kingdom.
Overview
- Time: 60–75 minutes
- Small group Under 20
- Focus Passage: Matthew 6:33, Luke 9:23–24, Romans 12:1–2
- Focus: We often try to build our own kingdoms, but Jesus calls us to surrender to His rule — where true freedom and purpose are found.
Part 1: Scripture & Discussion (30–40 min)
1. Icebreaker (5–10 min)
“If you were king or queen for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
2. Scripture:
- Matthew 6:33 – Seek first the kingdom
- Luke 9:23–24 – Deny yourself, take up your cross
- Romans 12:1–2 – Living sacrifice, renewed mind
3. Discussion Questions:
- In what ways do we try to build our own kingdoms (comfort, status, control, etc.)?
- What does Jesus mean by “take up your cross daily”?
- Where is it hardest for you to surrender control to God?
- What’s one area of life where you sense God asking you to step off the throne?
- How can seeking His kingdom actually lead to more peace and freedom?
Part 2: Reflection & Response
“Lord, where am I building my kingdom instead of Yours? What does surrender look like this week?”
2. Prayer Time
- Pray for each other
- Group prayer: “Lord, Your Kingdom come…”
- Use a worship song as a time of surrender (like “Build Your Kingdom Here” or “I Surrender”)
Throughout the week:
- Pray daily: “God, show me where I’m choosing my kingdom over Yours.”
- Do one intentional act of surrender (could be serving someone else, forgiving, letting go of control, etc.)
- Week 1: The Clash of Kingdoms
- Week 2: Control vs. Trust
- Week 3: Surrender and Freedom
- Week 4: Living as Citizens of the Kingdom