Back to the Basics: 4 Non-Negotiables in the Kingdom of God

In a world full of distractions, trends, and watered-down Christianity, it’s time to get back to the basics. The church doesn’t need a new gimmick. We need a revival of the foundational things that once turned the world upside down (Acts 17:6). Jesus didn’t call us to be spiritual spectators but Kingdom soldiers. If we’re going to live like Jesus matters, it’s time we return to four essential truths:

Our calling, our serving, our giving, and our commitment to the local church.

1. Our Calling in the Kingdom of God
You were not saved to sit — you were saved to serve and shine. The moment you gave your life to Jesus, you were drafted into a Kingdom with a mission: make disciples (Matthew 28:19). You have a calling that’s greater than your comfort. Whether it’s preaching, parenting, teaching, encouraging, or leading, you’ve been gifted by the Holy Spirit for impact (1 Corinthians 12:4 7).

Stop asking, “What’s God’s will for my life?” and start doing what He already told you.
He’s called you to:

• Live holy (1 Peter 1:16)
• Be bold in your witness (Acts 1:8)
• Love deeply (John 13:35)
• Stand firm in truth (2 Timothy 4:2)

Your life is not your own — it’s a weapon in the hands of a mighty God.

2. Serving: Be the Church, Don’t Just Go to One
Church isn’t a weekly show — it’s a body. And every part has a job (Romans 12:4–8). Some of you have been in the stands too long. It’s time to get in the game.

Jesus said, “The greatest among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 23:11, LSB).
If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead.

• Pick up a mop.
• Watch some babies.
• Greet someone at the door.
• Help with children's and youth ministries. 

God uses ordinary people with willing hearts. He’s not looking for perfect vessels, just available ones.

3. Giving: Invest in Eternity
We don’t talk about money because we want something from you — we talk about it because God wants something for you. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). If you want to know what someone worships, check their bank statement.

Giving isn’t about obligation — it’s about alignment.
When you give:

• You obey God (Malachi 3:10)
• You support Kingdom work (2 Corinthians 9:6–8)
• You grow in trust and generosity

Giving stretches your faith and breaks the chains of greed. The world says “get,” but Jesus says, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

If God has your heart, He’ll have your wallet too.

4. Attending Church: Show Up and Stand Together
The church isn’t optional for believers — it’s essential.
Hebrews 10:25 (LSB) says, “not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

You can’t be a strong Christian and neglect the gathering of the saints. Sunday is not about tradition — it’s about spiritual transformation.

When you gather:

• You’re reminded you’re not alone
• You’re equipped by the Word
• You’re strengthened through worship
• You’re challenged to live holy

The early church didn’t just attend — they devoted themselves (Acts 2:42). We need that same passion and commitment. Church is not a convenience — it’s a covenant community.

Final Word: Back to the Basics
If you’ve been coasting in your faith, it’s time to shift gears.
Let’s go back to what matters most:
✅ Walk in your calling.
✅ Serve with joy.
✅ Give with faith.
✅ Gather with passion.

The world doesn’t need more fans of Jesus. It needs followers.
It needs people who will man up, show up, and live out their faith boldly.
Let’s get back to the basics — and watch God do the supernatural through our obedience.

In love,

Pastor Jody