Repent, for the Kingdom of God Is Near

Introduction

Before an honored guest arrives, people clean their homes carefully. If we prepare so well for humans, how should we prepare our hearts for the coming King?

Background

Psalm 72 is a royal psalm pointing ultimately to the Messiah—Christ the King. Advent reminds us that His Kingdom is near, and repentance is our fitting response.

Point 1: Repent, Because God’s Kingdom Is Marked by Divine Justice (vv. 1–7)

Transition: The psalm begins with God’s justice.

1. Repentance means returning to God’s standard of justice.
2. Repentance brings restoration to the oppressed.
3. Repentance leads to true shalom.

• Isaiah 9:6–7 — The just and peaceful Messiah.
• Matthew 6:33 — Seek first the Kingdom of God.

Point 2: Repent, Because the Reign of the King Reaches All Nations (vv. 8–14)

Transition: The psalm expands to the global rule of the Messiah.

1. Repentance acknowledges Christ’s authority.
2. Repentance joins us to God’s mission.
3. Repentance makes us compassionate to the suffering.

• Matthew 28:18–20 — Christ sends His disciples with authority.
• Philippians 2:10–11 — Every knee shall bow.

Point 3: Repent, Because God’s Kingdom Brings Eternal Blessing (vv. 15–19)

Transition: The psalm ends with eternal blessing and praise.

1. Repentance sets our hope on an eternal Kingdom.
2. The Kingdom brings blessing to the nations.
3. Repentance glorifies God.

• Revelation 11:15 — The kingdoms of the world become Christ’s.
• Ephesians 1:3 — Spiritual blessings in Christ.

Conclusion

Psalm 72 points us to Christ the righteous, universal, and eternal King. If His Kingdom is near, then our response must be repentance.

Closing Poem

Fields of grain in gentle sway,
Blessed by winds that softly sigh.
Repent and walk the Kingdom way,
For Christ the King is drawing nigh.