Episode Details

Everyone spends life chasing something. How can you tell whether you are pursuing what matters most? In this opening message of the “Chase What Matters” series, Pastor Chris Teien turns to Matthew 6:33 and asks what it means to seek God’s kingdom first. He considers how our priorities, resources, and worries affect the way we follow Jesus.

God’s kingdom is His rule and work, and Jesus calls His followers to put it first. That changes how we view eternity, how we use what we have, and how we respond when we are anxious about our needs. Because we belong to Christ, we can seek His purposes and trust our Father’s care.

“Chase What Matters” Message Series 1 of 4

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 SEEK GOD’S KINGDOM ABOVE ALL ELSE

Jesus calls His followers to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first. Pastor Chris explains what God’s kingdom means and asks how our skills, opportunities, time, and resources could help others know Christ. Seeking the kingdom begins with giving God’s purposes priority in the life we already have. (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 103:19; Romans 14:17)

#2 SET YOUR MIND ON ETERNAL THINGS

Paul tells believers who have been raised with Christ to set their hearts and minds on things above. Remembering our life in Christ gives us a wider view of what matters and a concern for others who need to know Him. Faithful service may have results we cannot see right away. (Colossians 3:1-2; 1 John 5:11)

#3 TRUST GOD TO PROVIDE FOR YOUR NEEDS

Jesus speaks about food, clothing, and worry before telling His followers to seek the kingdom first. Our heavenly Father knows what we need. Trusting Him does not mean we will avoid hardship, but it helps us keep anxiety from directing every choice. (Matthew 6:31-33; Luke 12:31-32)

#4 LIVE AS A CITIZEN OF HEAVEN

Believers belong to Christ and await His return. Pastor Chris closes by urging Christians to work together, remain focused, and keep serving when difficulties come. Our citizenship in heaven should shape how we live and serve here. (Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 6:10-18)

Ask God to show you one way to seek His kingdom with what you already have. It may begin with encouraging someone, sharing your faith, serving in your church, or trusting Him with a need that has been consuming your attention. Put Christ first in that choice and take the next faithful step.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passage: Matthew 6:31-33
Supporting passages: Psalm 103:19; Luke 12:31-32; Romans 14:17; Ephesians 6:10-18; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:1-2; 1 John 5:11

Source of 15000 churches closing:  https://churchanswers.com/blog/five-reasons-why-2025-will-be-a-pivotal-year-for-many-churches/

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16385847

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at wellfaith24@gmail.com.