From Matthew 11:12 I began looking at all the verses in the Gospels that talk about the kingdom of heaven or the kingdom of God. I began by asking basic questions about Kingdom, Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How?
What is the Kingdom of God?
It is just that, a Kingdom. Over every Kingdom there is a King or a ruler who reigns. I agree with Seth Barnes when he says the kingdom of God is:
“The reign and rule of the Lord, wherever the Lord reigns, the kingdom comes.”
Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.”
Jesus lived in the kingdom of God here on earth because the Father ruled and reigned in the heart of Jesus. He is our example. He shows us what the kingdom is: LIFE. It looks like bringing life, wholeness and healing to others. It sounds like speaking life and hope over others. It acts like releasing the oppressed, caring for the poor, extending grace, and relinquishing judgement. It feels like abundant life, joy, peace, love, freedom, and wholeness.
He says it is like a treasure hidden in a field or a pearl of great price- it is worth selling everything you have to obtain it.
He says it is like leaven- it permeates the whole world; first, through the hidden, inner transformation of the heart of each believer, and then through their proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom of heaven.
He says it is like a mustard seed- the kingdom of heaven had an insignificant, humble beginning, like the mustard seed, but grows to be the largest tree in the garden.
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The next question is who? Who lives in the kingdom of God? Who experiences it?
Matthew 5:3 the poor in spirit
– those who know and confess their spiritual bankruptcy and need for the Lord.
Matthew 7:21 those who do the will of the Father.
Matthew 18:4 those who humble themselves and possess child-like faith in God.
Matthew 19:23-24 the wealthy can enter, but it will be difficult for them.
Luke 6:20 the poor- those who are utterly dependent on God to provide for their very basic needs because they have no means to provide for themselves.
John 3:2-6 those who are born again of water and spirit.
Do you see what I saw? All of these examples from scripture reinforce the idea that where the Lord reigns the kingdom comes. Those for whom it is difficult or impossible to enter are those who do not have faith in God; are sufficient on their own, in their wealth and security; and those who do not allow the Lord complete sovereignty in their lives.
Does the Lord truly reign in your heart?
or do you go about your day without giving Him much thought?
How have you experienced the Kingdom of God lately?
Is there someone in your circle of influence
who needs a touch of the kingdom?
How is the Lord asking you to bring it to him or her?
