We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, (12) always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. (13) For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son…
Colossians 1:11-13 NLT

It can be easy to think of your faith as just a part of your life—it may show up at Christmas, Easter, and funerals. But believing in Jesus is so much more; He wants to be involved in every area of your life. Most people believe that Christianity is just a religion and a way to get into heaven. But, by definition, it is not a religion. A religion demands that people reach out to God, but our God reaches out to us!

So, what is Christianity? Through the death of Jesus, we were made right with the Father, and through His resurrection, His Kingdom was established on earth. Rather than a religion or philosophy, Christianity is a Kingdom. And as a believer, you are a part of building His Kingdom here on earth! Think of it this way: you are an ambassador of God’s Kingdom to the world. Everywhere you go, you represent the King.

If you have an “off limits” sign in one area of your life, then you have not made Him your Lord in every area. As His representative, your commitment and love for Him needs to be greater than anything else. Take care not to compartmentalize the Gospel. In Matthew 16:24 Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”

We know that Jesus is the way into heaven, but that is not the ultimate purpose of Christianity. Jesus died so that He could get heaven into you. See, God’s Kingdom is established when His will is done and He is glorified. It is His will that His children are free, healed, and pursuing a relationship with Him. So when you are building the Kingdom, you are bringing heaven to earth!

“Time’s up! God’s kingdom is here. Change your life and believe the Message.”
Mark 1:15 (The Message translation)