Part Two: "Not of this world" What does this mean for the Christ follower? (John 18:36)

In part one, we saw that the phrase "not of this world" has very practical implications and applications for the Christ follower! We saw that we're "not of this world" because this world is in rebellion against God. We saw that we're "not of this world" because our Lord Jesus is "not of this world!" We saw that as we walk with Jesus, we're walking out of step with this world. We saw that we're "not of this world" because we have a viewpoint "not of this world." We saw that we're "not of this world" because we have a home "not of this world." Today, we'll look at the fact that as Christ followers, we have treasures "not of this world." Jesus tells us "Make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Luke 12:33-34). This passage teaches us a very important principle. It's the most significant thing that we should ever remember when dealing with earthly treasures. It's the principle that our hearts tend naturally to desire the place where our treasure is stored, and because of that, we have to be careful about where we lay up our treasures! Our hearts are to be oriented toward heaven. The disposition of the Christ follower should point itself toward the things that have to do with heaven...as often as possible! Next, we have peace "not of this world!" How wonderful it is to enjoy the peace that God gives! Our Lord Jesus is called "the Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus says "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful" (John 14:27). We're talking about calm and composure in times of difficulty! We're talking about keeping our hearts from being agitated! Jesus said His peace is "not of this world." The peace "of the world" functions only in the absence of trouble! The moment trouble shows up, the peace of the world vanishes! For the Christ follower, that is not good enough! We are "not of this world" and the peace that's been made available to us is "not of this world." How awesome is that? It just doesn't get any better! Your move. Be encouraged!