What the Bible Says About Who’s Really in Charge
If you’ve ever wondered what the Bible teaches about the difference between the governments and countries we see today and the idea of “God’s kingdom,” you’re not alone. This is a big theme throughout the Bible, but it can sound complicated if you’re not used to reading ancient texts. Here’s a simple breakdown to help make sense of it all:
Earthly Kingdoms Don’t Last Forever
The Bible talks a lot about the countries, kingdoms, and leaders we see in the world—past and present. But it makes an important point: these kingdoms might seem powerful now, but they’re only temporary. They exist because God allows them to, but none of them last forever. In the book of Daniel (for example, Daniel 2:44), there’s a vision about God eventually setting up a kingdom that will never end—a kingdom that knocks down all the rest.
Even when earthly rulers don’t acknowledge God, the Bible says God can still use them for His plans. So, as impressive or scary as world powers might seem, they’re never truly in control.
Earthly Kingdoms Aren’t Perfect
If you look at the history of any country or government, you’ll notice they all have problems—wars, greed, pride, injustice. The Bible says this is normal for earthly kingdoms because they’re often influenced by sin and people turning away from God. For example, stories like the kingdom of Babylon show rulers getting caught up in their own strength and pride, only for things to fall apart.
In contrast, God’s kingdom is described as a place of true justice, peace, and goodness—a place where things work the way they’re supposed to.
God’s Kingdom Will Last Forever and Win in the End
The Bible promises that one day, God’s kingdom is going to be set up right here on earth, with Jesus (Christ) as the King. This isn’t just about heaven or a spiritual idea—it’s described as a real place with laws, a government, and a capital. In Revelation 11:15, there’s a vision of a time when all the kingdoms of the world become part of God’s kingdom, and He will rule forever.
When this happens, all the things that are wrong with our world—violence, corruption, suffering—will be replaced with peace and fairness. God’s kingdom will outlast and overcome every other power.
Believers: Citizens of God’s Kingdom
So what does this mean for people who believe in God? The Bible encourages believers to see themselves as citizens of God’s kingdom first, even while living in the countries of this world. That means living by God’s values, putting spiritual things above temporary stuff, and trying to show what God’s kingdom is like through the way we live.
In teachings like the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus lays out what kind of people belong to this kingdom—those who seek justice, show mercy, and live humbly.
In a nutshell: Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s kingdom is forever. While we’re part of the world around us, the Bible invites us to look forward to something better and to live in a way that shows what God’s eternal kingdom is all about.
Minister A Francine Green I July 2025
afrancinegreen.com 