“Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” (Luke 17:20-21)
Exploring Scripture’s Perspective on God’s Reign and Rule
The Kingdom of God is a central theme in Christian theology and scripture. It encompasses both its spiritual presence in the lives of believers and its future manifestation in the eternal realm. This profound concept is life-changing. It offers a glimpse into God’s reign. It reveals His righteousness and promise of restoration and peace. Through various verses in the Bible, the nature, implications, and requirements of the Kingdom are vividly illustrated.
The Kingdom Within and Among Us
The Kingdom of God is often described as an invisible yet powerful reality. It resides within the hearts of believers and governs their lives. Luke 17:20-21 provides a striking assertion. It states, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘Look, there it is!’ For, behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.” This statement by Jesus refutes the Pharisees’ expectations of an observable, dramatic arrival of God’s kingdom. Instead, it reveals the Kingdom as an active and spiritual presence. It exists among those who follow God’s will. The focus is on inner transformation and communal faith.
Matthew 6:33 complements this idea. It emphasizes the priority of seeking God’s rule. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Here, Jesus calls believers to align their lives with God’s principles. He urges them to make His Kingdom the central pursuit of their existence. The promise attached—that material needs will be provided—further underscores the sufficiency and providence of God when His Kingdom is prioritized.
The Kingdom That Is Not of This World
While the Kingdom of God is present among believers, its essence is distinct from worldly kingdoms. John 18:36 records Jesus declaring, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting to prevent my delivery to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” This verse draws a clear line between the nature of Jesus’ Kingdom and earthly political systems. It is not defined by territorial conquest, military power, or political authority but by spiritual transformation, righteousness, and peace.
This spiritual nature challenges believers to rethink their understanding of power and influence. Followers of Christ should not seek dominance or control. They are called to embody the Kingdom’s principles of humility, love, and service.
The Call to Repentance and Faith
The arrival of the Kingdom of God demands a response—a turning from sin and a commitment to faith. Mark 1:15 captures Jesus’ proclamation: “The time is fulfilled. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel.” These words mark the inauguration of Christ’s ministry. They also invite humanity to embrace the good news of salvation. They call for transformation. Repentance involves not only confessing one’s sins but actively turning away from them to live in alignment with God’s will. Faith, in turn, becomes the doorway to participation in the Kingdom’s blessings.
Requirements for Entering the Kingdom
The Kingdom of God is open to all, yet scripture lays out clear requirements for entry—righteousness and holiness. 1 Corinthians 6:9 warns, “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers will inherit the kingdom of God. Men who practice homosexuality, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, and swindlers will not inherit it as well.” This verse serves as a reminder. The Kingdom is reserved for those who strive to live according to God’s moral standards. It encourages believers to take seriously the call to holiness. This is achieved not through their own strength, but by relying on God’s grace.
While this passage highlights behaviors that exclude individuals from the Kingdom, it also underscores the life-changing power of repentance. Those who sincerely turn to God and allow His Spirit to reshape their lives are welcomed into His reign.
The Eternal Kingdom of Restoration
While the Kingdom of God exists in the present, scripture also points to its glorious future manifestation. Revelation 21:1-4 describes the ultimate fulfillment of God’s Kingdom. It paints a vivid picture. “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem. It was coming down out of heaven from God. It was prepared like a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.'” This vision reveals the culmination of God’s redemptive plan—a restored creation where suffering, sin, and death cease to exist.
The promise of a new heaven and earth inspires hope and anticipation among believers. It assures them that their faithfulness and commitment to God’s Kingdom will be rewarded one day. They will experience eternal joy and communion with God.
Living as Citizens of the Kingdom
Believers are invited to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God. They should understand its presence and embrace their role. This role involves reflecting God’s rule to the world. This means prioritizing spiritual values over worldly pursuits. It involves seeking righteousness in all areas of life. Demonstrating the life-changing love of Christ to others is also important.
The Kingdom of God calls for a dual focus—acknowledging its current presence and anticipating its future fulfillment. Believers experience God’s reign in their lives today. They also hold to the promise of an eternal Kingdom where all things are made new. As citizens of this Kingdom, Christians are commissioned to embody its principles and share its hope with the world.
Conclusion
The Kingdom of God, as described in scripture, is both a present reality and a future promise. It transcends worldly definitions of power and authority, focusing instead on spiritual transformation, righteousness, and restoration. The Bible offers profound insights into the nature of this Kingdom. These insights are found in passages like Matthew 6:33, John 18:36, and Revelation 21:1-4. It explains its implications for believers. It also highlights the hope it offers to humanity.
Living in the light of God’s Kingdom requires repentance, faith, and a commitment to holiness. It involves prioritizing God’s rule in daily life and anticipating the day when His eternal Kingdom is fully realized. For those who embrace this calling, the Kingdom of God becomes more than just a theological concept. It becomes a life -changing reality. This reality shapes their lives and their relationship with God.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 