This blog is the 30th in our We “the Faith People” series, Our last post was about the gift of Eternal Life, In this blog we will be looking at the Kingdom of God, the Nicene Creed states “and his kingdom will have no end”. Both in the Old testament & New testament, the scripture is clear that God’s Kingdom will endure for ever (2 Samuel 7:16;Revelation 11:15)
The kingdom of God describes both a present and future reality. God rules and reigns over all. God’s kingdom comes now as people receive the gospel, believe in Jesus, and embrace God’s rule and reign over their lives. God’s kingdom also awaits future consummation, on a day known only by the Father, when His kingdom will be fully realized. When the Lord Jesus Christ returns at the end of human history, He will reign over all people forever in all glory and honor as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Philippians 2:10-11; Revelation 1:7; 19:11-16)
The Present Reality
For now, God is building His kingdom in the lives of people who receive Jesus as King. God has established a visible kingdom now on earth, the realm where God’s Spirit resides and offers a preview of what is to come. This visible kingdom makes a claim on every human created in God’s image. The challenge for those who submit to God and are a part of His visible kingdom is that the world system does not recognize God’s rule and authority over their lives. This preview believers experience of what will be someday helps God’s people live as it should be today, by faith and in humble submission to God.(Hebrews 11:13-16; 1 John 3:2-3) The kingdom of God is moving forward to accomplish God’s plan on His schedule. For now, believers recognize that Jesus Christ, who will reign forever and ever, reigns in their hearts.
Eternal Home
After the final judgment, believers will enter the glorious new heaven and new earth, freed forever from sin’s influence. Will God totally re-create the heavens and earth or regenerate them to prepare a place for His people? No matter how God accomplishes this, the certain consummation of His eternal plan gives believers hope for today and forever. When a believer dies, their soul—their very person and personality—immediately enters God’s presence.(Luke 23:39-43; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Philippians 1:21-23) However, believers still await their final eternal home, resurrection bodies, and the coming of the new heaven and earth. God’s people will dwell with Him in a perfect, sinless environment—their eternal home.
A Call to Value HIS Kingdom
The kingship of Christ and the kingdom of God represent a place of safety and flourishing for God’s child. You can trust God to reign over you with kindness, righteousness, and good will. God will lead you to fruitfulness in this life and eternal blessings.(Psalm 84:11; Ephesians 1:3-10) His rule is not to be feared but treasured. The eternal victory promised within God’s kingdom provides context for the cares in this life. Those who surrender to Christ and seek His kingdom find Him to be a wise and faithful King. The blessings of God’s kingdom are not delayed for future delivery in eternity. Believers who follow Christ experience many blessings today.(John 10:10; Romans 8:32) Do you value God’s kingdom and the wonderful security of living with Christ as your King?