The Good News, According to Jesus

So I'm a radio host, and I get asked to speak in churches and Christian schools and stuff -- often just once -- and I like to ask this question:  What was the "good news", according to Jesus?  Jesus sent people out to share the good news.  C'mon, what was it?

No one knows.  Like...ever.  We're talkin' Christian schools with Bible classes, Bible Churches, Bible Churches of the Bible with Biblical Bible-Studying Bible Groups, even Bible college grads.  Nobody knows.

Well, truthfully, once, when I asked it on-air, one caller finally knew -- an older man, with a Haitian accent.  "The Kingdom is here!" he said.

I've discussed this here, too, and I've gotten many questions about it.  When Scott (listener and also Kamp reader) asked, "So, what's the Kingdom?  What is that? -- I thought I'd post my response here. 

Insert usual disclaimers:  This is too brief.  And I'm no theologian.  I'm a guy who shoves his glasses up his nose. 

-------

Hey Scott...

Great question, and it can be answered a few different ways, none of which may be satisfactory.

First, the Kingdom of God is anywhere God is in control.  It's where His rule and reign is expanding, where He's the King.  In this way, the Kingdom expands as more hearts are turned toward Him, when we obey the greatest commandment, to love God with everything we have, and our neighbor as ourselves.

This means, as well, that the things God wants for the world -- restoration, healing, redemption, the first last and last first -- are happening.  People who are Kingdom people will pray, like Jesus did, for His Kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven.  The rule and reign of God is GREAT news for the world:  restored relationships, things set right, justice, mercy for the oppressed, a new way of living.

How good is this Kingdom message?  It was THE "Good News" (the "Gospel") according to Jesus Himself in Mark 1!  The Kingdom is HERE, now!  God is setting things right, through His people!  He has not abandoned us!

To the Jews of Jesus' day, the coming of the Kingdom meant specific things. They would be set free from oppression from, say, the Romans, for instance.  But it's also prophesied in their scriptures:  the lame would leap like deer, the deaf would hear, the mute sing for joy!  In this way, Jesus not only proclaimed that "The Kingdom is here!" -- he illustrated it vividly through restoring sight, and letting the lame run.  Healing was a sign of the Kingdom.

The Jews knew the coming of the Kingdom would mean great JOY, too.  There would at last be enough for everyone, there would be great feasts -- a big party!

Jesus told tons of stories about the Kingdom, to try to illustrate to people what He was talking about, but it's still difficult, removed as we are from that culture, to reduce it to a quick sentence, that's for sure.

His crucifixion and resurrection were, obviously, central to this message.  Instead of setting us politically free, He set us truly free -- free from just punishment of our rebellion, free from death itself.

Jesus' plan was bigger than that of His people at the time.  His teaching gave us a way to be set free, here and now, from ourselves;  from our sin, anger, bitterness, lust, envy, lack of contentment.  (Read the Sermon on the Mount with that in mind, in Matthew 5-7.)  The Kingdom was announced then, with Jesus telling people how happy ("blessed" in some translations) various on-the-outs groups would be that the Kingdom was here. 

He starts preaching by immediately claiming he'd been anointed by God to proclaim the good news...to the poor.  (Luke 4)

...and then there's the Kingdom that is "not yet".  For now, we are allowed to choose what we want, to choose between the reign of the rightful King, or the Kingdom of Ourselves.  Jesus made it clear, though, there will come a time when God brings his Kingdom in Full, and will restore everything with a new heaven and new earth.  Those who choose the Kingdom will live in it forever.  Those who choose the Kingdom of Self will get their choice, as well.

And just as we can see already, the Kingdom of God unites, brings people together, and builds community.  The Kingdom of Self ultimately leaves us completely alone, even in the midst of others.  Hell will be utter isolation, the Kingdom of Self in Full, chosen freely.

That's a quick summation.  I hope it makes sense.  It is THE theme of Jesus' ministry, but to be honest, I didn't learn much about it growing up. 

May His Kingdom come, on earth, as it is in Heaven.

Best,

Brant

Comments

[Joel]

Hey Brant. This posting has nothing to do with your blog. I ran across a great website that I think you'll enjoy, but I didn't know how to email you. The site is larknews.com. I laughed reading it almost as much as when I read your sunglasses and nostril incident.

[Sarah]

Fantastic post! I have to agree - this IS the fundamental message of Jesus. I like the summation of what the kingdom is: it is where His rule and reign is expanding, where He is King.

It's interesting (and disheartening) that no one can ever answer your question. I've heard enough preaching on the teachings of Paul to last me several lifetimes, but have heard very little preaching on the teachings of Jesus throughout my Christian life.

There are some out there who have really gotten ahold of the kingdom message and are preaching it (I'm not much for institutional models of church, but Bethel church in Redding, CA is truly preaching and seeking the kingdom. I am often inspired, challenged and inspired by their podcasts). I'm also encouraged by this post. Keep preaching the kingdom! :)

[Just Matt]

Good stuff Brant.
Have you read McClaren's Book: 'The Secret Message of Jesus'?

Although I don't agree with everything he says...He does do a good job of painting the picture of the Kingdom of Heaven being here and now.

Rob.
Bell.
Does.
This.
Well.
Too.

[Note from Brant:

YOU WERE SEROUSLY THE 6,666th COMMENT ON THIS BLOG!!!! CONGRATS!!!

Figures you reference McLaren!

I actually haven't read McLaren. I'm possibly unfairly biased against him. Maybe I should read that.

Rob.

Bell.

Seems like nice guy.

I'm not an "emergent" person. Nothing against "emergent" people; I just don't care about the battle lines and such. I'd *hate* for someone to read this post and think, "Oh, 'emergent' guy" and dismiss it. Doesn't help me learn, you know?

Anyway, more reply there than you requested. Sorry about the Gators. (snort.)]

[becky]

sense made.

[Seaton]

Why do you think it's so hard for us to keep the Kingdom as our main (if not only)message? I've got some suspicions, but I'm interested in your take.

[rob smith]

Pretty much what you summarized is what McClaren talks about in his book The Secret Message of Jesus.

[Just Matt]

We are on the same page when it comes to the whole 'emergent' thing. A buddy of mine recommended the book and I trust his judgment. Like I said, I am not a fan of McLaren - but he does a mostly good job in this book.

As for the 6666 thing...thanks for pointing that out. Do I win a prize or something?
Now I am going to be watching my back for black cats, and cracks on the sidewalk...sheesh...

Don't snort at the Gators - they are merely a group of humble folks who like to share the spotlight with others...don't you forget where your precious Illinois coach came from ; )

[Mike Bishop]

I think it's fairly important to state that biblical scholars and historians have been writing about the kingdom of God and its centrality to the message of Jesus for a long time, much longer (and better I might add) than Brian McLaren. George Eldon Ladd is probably the most notable. Scott McKnight is posting a series on the kingdom recently and metions another that I haven't read, GR Beasley-Murray. More recently, NT Wright. Anyway, this isn't to disparage the books McLaren has written, they just need to be placed in their proper context. The so-called "Secret Message of Jesus" really isn't much of a secret if you get beyond the pop-theology of most evangelicals.

[Nubanon]

I was about 4 ft. away from meeting you once at WBGL. Not quite, though. I work there as the production director. Anyways, nice post.

Side note, when I began working here 3 years ago, a friend of mine told me that he will consider me a good host based on comparison to Brant Hanson. Well played.

As far as your post goes, have you ever thought about attending a Vineyard church? You are so Vineyard and you don't even know it :-). But seriously, every week, the kingdom this, the kingdom that. It gets annoying to the point of me needing to just connect with what is being said. Cos you're right, that's what it's all about.

Oh, you KNOW that you look like John Stamos, right? That's not news, or offensive? You just know, right?

[Phil Miller]

Great post Brant. I grew up in a tradition that seemed to automatically assume you were a dirty, smell liberal if you talked about the Kingdom too much. That probably would have made it awkward for them if they were ever hanging around Jesus.

To respond to Mike Bishop's comment - I agree the Kingdom hasn't really been a secret. It just seems to have gotten lost in some circles. Also, I think McLaren actually said in the introduction to The Secret Message of Jesus, that the title was a little misleading and it was done somewhat for shock value.

[D M Zuniga]

One thing you didn't mention: the kingdom of God, which is at hand right now, is BIG.

I have traveled abroad and stayed in the homes of total strangers, treated as much like family (or royalty!) as they could afford to do. The only key I needed to get in their door for the night: mention of the fact that I belong to the kingdom of God in Christ, just as they do. Open door, open arms.

You, Shane Claiborne, and many others have spoken of this, of course; but you didn't include it in your exposition of the kingdom of God. It's a huge part of this kingdom, at least while we abide in these here bodies.

[Mike Bishop]

DM...Let me echo that sentiment. Our family is travelling to Peru for five weeks next month to stay with some friends who are missionaries there...our friendship is all because of the kingdom of God. Here's the whole story - http://www.whatischurch.com/mustardseed/2007/11/why-everyday-mission.html, but it's exactly the kind of relationship and kind of "here and now" thing you are talking about.

Also to Nubanon...that's hilarious you would mention the Vineyard. The faith community Brant and myself are a part of (see his earlier posts) was originally started by my wife and I as a Vineyard church plant. We're enormously indebted to John Wimber and the Vineyard for their emphasis on the kingdom.

[Scripture Zealot]

What would it mean then to "obey the gospel"? Sincere question.

2 Thess 1:8, 1 Peter 4:7

Thanks for the post.
Jeff

[D M Zuniga]

Brant,

As with any jurisdiction in the universe, theyre's also a practical (as opposed to emotional, theological, relational, etc) aspect to life in the kingdom of God.

Most of your (American) readers today live a one- or two-wage-earner life paying tribute to 'Caesar'; allowing 'Caesar' to extract from every check they receive. They say they hate doing it (and they really do), but "render unto Caesar", the Church Leader says.

So now let me segue with the Brian McLaren discussion (thanks for putting up with my long posts!):

Brian McLaren reminds me of Dave Ramsey. These two Nationally-Renowned brothers look alike, dress alike, and wear similarly hip glasses. Nothing like your nerdy frames, Brant.

But here's why I think a lot of folks wince (or barf) when poor brother McLaren is mentioned: the kingdom of God can't be transmogrified into a paying gig for PR types.

(Ouch! Too close to home? Anyway...)

Consider Paul and the other early planters in the kingdom: they kept their regular jobs, and only asked for money when they were on the road for another church. Go on, read the NT, and notice that. When Christ said to lay down their nets and follow, He didn't say permanantly. (Either that, or He forgot by the time He told them later on, which side of the boat to cast their nets for a load of fish).

So when Paul said, "let him who does not work, not eat", he wasn't kidding. Nor was God the Father when He said the same to Adam, referring to the lot of all men for all time.

So now compare Paul's tent-making (and occasional collection for the poor saints) to the economy of today's 'Christian industry', including the collection basket at "worship services".

(Big difference, right?)

Brian McLaren knows that he isn't offering a blessed thing that's new. But he's a cool guy, saying some coolly-sensitive things in a very coolly-sensitively-humble way.

Humility is way hipper than just plain hip. So folks are buying.

So here's my last segue from McLaren's to Ramsey's "The kingdom of God and You, and Your Wallet, and My Books and Conferences".

A lot of you have heard Nationally-Renowned Financial Planner Dave Ramsay; his trademark humble line opening 90% of his radio phone calls goes:

Caller: "Thanks for taking my call, Dave. How are you doing?"

Trademark response: "Better than I deserve! How can I help you?"

Humility like that can't be bought for any price.

Several of us Nontaxpayers have contacted brother Dave with a piece of 40-year-old news that threatens to make the financial planning industry extinct.

No Nationally-Renowned Expert With a Newest-New Thing can make a gig from Christ's gospel while holding cards behind his back.

That's not the kingdom of God; it's something else when the Nationally-Renowned Christian Author and Personality pitches Christ with a market-twist on it.

The market twist can be very nuanced for today's consumers; even just a hip persona can raise a decent gig.

We told Dave Ramsay that there are an estimated 67 million non-filers in America; that all his tax-planning ideas are 'legacy' financial planning in light of Tax Honesty. We told him that most of the top leaders in Tax Honesty are Christians and/or former IRS agents, attorneys, and fraud examiners.

Dave Ramsay's acolytes and followers who save $27.50 by following his advice while losing $15,000 to thugs every year, are not being well served by his silence. We've told him that as a Christian he owes it to his audience to look into Tax Honesty.

No answers yet.

Folks can come out far ahead instead of buying his books and 6-step get-outta-debt plans. They just no longer buckle under threats by the D.C. al-Qaeda; they learn about the 40-year-old Tax Honesty movement, and now 67 million non-filers are living in the liberty of our forefathers. Many of us are Christians, getting our first few years' taste of living in the kingdom of God.

We are truly seeing the economy of God's kingdom -- a very practical kingdom!

We no longer give a flip about news cycles from Jan 1- Apr 15 and the Congress' hamster-wheel of file, pay, tax, spend, get pork, elect me for more pork, etc, ad nauseam.

This is a palpably different kingdom from any other on earth, ever. Real life has taken the place of political angst and religious horsefeathers, for we know the Truth, and the Truth has made us free.

In real life, the kingdom of God opens our eyes, and closes our ears to liars and thieves, even religious, very nice guys.

We are no longer freighted with fearing and keeping records for corrupt agencies. We no longer worry about the ratrace and empty projects and rules of government schools. Now, more of us are simply no longer worried about the third leg on Caesar's kingdom: the dying institutional Church. We are finding life in Christ.

Christ said "you will be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the Truth will make you free."

It does indeed. Life in the kingdom of God, at least for those under the temporal jurisdictions of these 50 States, is better than it has been in centuries.

For which we give God thanks and praise.

[Dampf Homeschool]

Mark 1:14-16
14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!"
It says the kingdom is near, not here, am I missing something?

[Jonathan]

The presentation of the Kingdom of God which most speaks to my imagination (as opposed to intellect, etc) is the chapter "How All Were Very Busy" in Prince Caspian. All the celebrating and setting the captives free and setting things right and so on. I love it!

[Phil Miller]

Wow, what does the Kingdom of God have anything to do with not paying taxes, and how does that apply to this conversation?

D.H.,
I like the NASB translation of that verse you quote a lot better. Jesus says the Kingdom is "at hand". That implies it's here now, within our reach. It's not fully realized yet, but that's just part of the now/not yet tension that's part and parcel in the Scriptures.

[D M Zuniga]

Heh...or how 'bout this one?

"And when he was demanded by the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God comes not with outward observation. Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you."

This is Christ also, here speaking as recorded by Luke. Some versions say "is within you" instead of "is in the midst of you".

Either way, you have to read it as the kingdom of God being co-existent with Christians, individually or collectively.
And either way, it doesn't suggest the 'sweet by-and-by'.

I spoke above (at length!) about practical aspects of the kingdom, when you live it. But even if we recall Christ's words that His kingdom "is not of this world", we can also say the samw of any spiritual matter, ethical concept...or computer message while it's in cyberspace.

Many things that are not of this world, nonetheless DO exist in space/time. The issues of alien physics aside, if we want to relegate Christ's kingdom to "not yet" just because we can't apprehend it with human senses, to be consistent we must do the same for radio waves, microwaves, certain wavelengths of light, etc.

The kingdom of God is at hand, is within us, is not of this world...and is REAL. NOW.

Rum thing, eh?

[T]

Jeff,

Great question. That biblical phrase never made sense to me until I really heard the gospel of the kingdom. Here's what I gather from the scriptures, let me know what you think:

The good news of God's kingdom coming to the earth is practically synonymous "news" to the appearing of the Messiah, the one promised to rule the kingdom as David's son, which I think makes sense. Therefore, the invitation to "trust Jesus" or "follow Jesus" or even call on him or receive him as "lord", is the same as the invitation to "enter the kingdom." Receiving/acknowledging/surrendering to Jesus, the king, is how one "enters [his/God's] kingdom", which is how it is for any human citizenship change. Hence, Jesus focuses on "following [him]" and on "kingdom", while Paul focuses on Jesus' kingly title of "Christ", but they have the same offer to the world in mind--accept that Jesus is God's annointed king of heaven and earth, and get on board. Stop fighting against God--he's declared amnesty for all rebels wanting to switch sides and confess that Jesus is Lord. Now is the time.

So, essentially one "obeys the gospel" by giving up alternative allegiances to Jesus (and start trusting and following the rightful king). It's time to recognize Christ, and stop doing anything contrary to his will. Trust him for our past, present & future. To 'obey the good news' of God's reign through Christ is to trust and obey Christ.

A paraphrase of the kingdom announcement: "God's power, goodness and leadership are active on the earth, through his annointed King, Jesus, in a way they've never been before. Think about the opportunity before you, drop your current loyalties & trust this good news."

[D M Zuniga]

Phil,

What does paying taxes have to do with the kingdom of God? Good question!

"And when they came to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, 'Does not your teacher pay taxes?'
He said, 'Yes.' And when he came into the house, Jesus preceded him saying, 'What think you, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?' Peter said unto him, 'Of strangers.' Jesus said unto him, 'Then the children are free.'
Matt. 17:24-26

I didn't get into tax law; it's not appropriate here. You can go to my website for that. My point was that at least for Americans, the kingdom of God makes us truly, honestly, law-abidingly FREE.

According to my reading of the law (26 USC, Tax Code) for nine years, most Americans truly are FREE; in other words, Mommy's working to pay Daddy's IRS bill -- NEEDLESSLY. That single fact has devastated the American family, and thus the Church.

Stupid is as stupid does. That's why I mentioned former IRS fraud examiner Sherry Jackson's estimate of 67 million American non-filers; not ALL Americans are clueless to what Congress did since WWII!

If you're still paying tribute to "Caesar" (that's what career 501c3 pastors call our public employees) without the least idea of any law requiring it, that's much, much worse than mere ignorance, brother. You're living as a slaves in a cage...with no lock on the cage door!

I'm not selling anything. Don't take my word for it. Do your own research. Being stuck on stupid is terrible stewardship!

My larger point was THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS REAL; IT IS PRACTICAL! Yeah, like the IRS rat-race, and things like that.

For decades now, Phil, millions of Americans have left the corporate treadmill to work from home; they've walked away from the IRS "fair share" line; they've taken their kids by the hand and walked away from the failing government school metal-detector palaces. Now, they're leaving the "worship service" corporations, in droves (George Barna estimates 25 million so far in this exodus).

This is living in the kingdom of God, right now; "and the truth shall make you free" has real meaning for everyday life, brother.

If you can't get the connections yet, do a little reading. It'll come to you.

[Brady]

The reason so many people can't explain what the Good News is, is because no one's willing to tell them what the Bad News is, anymore: Like, without Jesus we are all headed for hell, for breaking God's laws. With Jesus, we don't have to go there. Sounds like good news to me.

[D M Zuniga]

Brady,

That's true, but there are three reasons not to take the Fire & Brimstone approach to the kingdom of God:

First: for countless millions of people on earth, this present life is a living Hell so that fear tactic doesn't work;

Second: the kingdom of God is not just the sweet by-and-by; it's here NOW. Life RIGHT NOW is blessed for those who follow the Way of Christ;

Third: we can't save another human being. The evangelist is to tell of the good news, but mainly (s)he is supposed to make disciples. God the Father draws people to the Son, and by the Holy Spirit, the process of salvation is completed.

We don't need to scare people out of Hell because we're unable to keep them from it. We can talk about the alien physics and biology; the transformation that the King has brought to the universe. But mainly we should tell them what we know for sure, from our own lives.

I guess this is quite a sales pitch in itself? I have these seven points in my own experience, for instance:

1) A lot of Americans whine and moan about "life in America" and "the good old days" and "lost liberty", but I think they're drinking the politicians' Kool-Aid. I read history, the Constitution, the Internal Revenue Code, et al...and I know that I'm as free as my great-great grandfather was; in fact, much more so! I am really, actually FREE living in Texas, and I love it! I make much less than my neighbors, yet my family is far more blessed than they are.

We haven't followed politics, voted, or had a TV in our homes for the past 15+ years, and are constantly refreshed. Sweet Liberty!

2) I've never met anyone with more joy in life than I have. I think part of that's because I don't watch politics or media. But it's mostly because my family serves Christ, the King of All Nations. His provision is clear to us every day, week, and passing year. After a while, you can't help but smile a lot.

3) A corollary: this kingdom has no election cycles. My bride and I have stumbled behind the King for 36 years, having never, ever seen Him fail us, our children, or our grandchildren. Why vote for little false gods walking on earth, when the King lives!?

4) Me and my family will never die, ever! I know of no government, politician, bank, or human that can do this for my family. The King of Glory alone can do this.

5) I've always wanted to see the M16 'Eagle' Nebula up close; it is one of the 'coolest' nebulae in this vicinity; but the Serpens constellation is a tad far for human vehicles to reach. I am confident that the King will allow me to fulfill that desire of my heart (and countless more). Can YOUR government do that?

6) Me and my family are doing exactly what we were designed to do, and this is a very fullfilling life.

7) Oh...plus we don't give a damn about Hell, either. Christ made that off limits to us types.

[D M Zuniga]

Brant,

Consider this, as we discuss the kingdom of God.

Most Christians think the kingdom of God is just a state of mind. This is high irony to me, because for Christians in America (or most other countries), "America" (or fill in the blank with your nation's name) IS JUST A STATE OF MIND, REINFORCED AGAINST ITS OWN PEOPLE BY VIOLENCE OR THREAT OF VIOLENCE by the ruling government.

Everyone here was born in some place; for Americans, you were born in one particular State. I was born and live in Texas; I visit other States, but their histories, cultures, dialects, cuisine, weather, architecture, and mode of dress are not like what I see in my homeland, Texas.

I've been to plenty of States, and they are as different as can be from one another. But I've never actually been to a place called "America", have you? (No, don't go mention some town with that name, please).

As Christians, our prime allegiance is to Christ the King and His kingdom.

Far down the ladder, comes my allegiance to Texas, my homeland. This makes me a "patriot" in the historical sense of 'patria' (land of one's culture & birth).

As for "the United States of America", I don't see any government obeying the Constitution for the United States, so apparently the folks in D.C. are the least patriotic of all. But since I don't fund their kitty anymore, I really don't care. I just obey all laws, pay my own bills by the work of my hands, and love my neighbors.

I think the whole "America" thing is just a state of mind. The kingdom of God, however, is REAL.

[Aquila]

Great discussion, here is my take

There are three main points we need to understand regarding the ‘Kingdom of God’.

God’s kingdom in its present form is a spiritual kingdom. There will come a time in the future when Jesus returns to earth and God’s spiritual Kingdom becomes a physical reality.

The Kingdom would not be established immediately, but incrementally. It would spread as the message was preached and believed on.

God has chosen to establish his Kingdom through his body, the church.

In its present form it is a spiritual kingdom.

John 18:36
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

Matthew 4:17
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Luke 17
20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

Acts 1:6, 8
6 Are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel? After his resurrection from the dead Jesus had every legal right to establish his kingdom. He didn’t though, instead he chose to establish his kingdom through his body the church.

8 You will receive power. Jesus turns the question around from him establishing a physical kingdom to his disciples representing him as his agents with God’s power and establishing God’s spiritual kingdom. You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and Judea in Samaria and to the uttermost parts of the earth.

The moment we are born again, we become a part of God’s Kingdom

Colossians 1:12-14.
12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves. 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Because God’s kingdom is a spiritual kingdom, the only way to become a part of his kingdom is through a spiritual rebirth.
·
John 3:3
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

We cannot become a part of the true church through membership and baptism in a physical organization, i.e., the Catholic church, the Mormon church, Jehovah’s Witnesses, etc.

Knowing what the church is, and what the kingdom is, makes it a lot easier when talking to Catholics, Mormons, etc.

Knowing what the church is, and what the kingdom is, gives us a clearer vision of who we are in Christ. It helps define what service to Christ truly is: we are partners with him in the establishing of his kingdom! We do this through the preaching of the word, through prayer; “Thy kingdom come”, when we are praying for our unsaved friends and neighbors to be saved, what we are really praying for is that they would become part of the family of God, or part of his Kingdom. We also do this by using the unique spiritual gifts that God has given each one of us as members of the body of Christ.

[DM Zuniga]

Aquila,

D'accord; the King said that His kingdom is not of this world. But we are IN this world, even though not OF it.

My main point is that the kingdom of God is spiritual, yes; but that it also has practical implications in how we live, work, and raise our kids. Let me put it another way; mabe it wil be clearer without appearing self-contradictory.

Right now we live in mortal bodies, but sooner than most of us thinks, we will take on incorruptipble bodies. If we believe in Christ, there will be no such thing as death for us; when we make the transition, we also leave off our worldly allegiances to nation-states and earthly economics, physics, chemistry, etc.

From that instant and then forever, time will no longer play a part in our existence. Neither will our earthly language, culture or nationality.

But even now -- right here in this life -- we can begin practicing for glory, by not being so hidebound by time, language, culture, and nationality. We are one Church in King Jesus Christ, who is, right now, the King over all kings and powers in the universe.

Right NOW, not only in the sweet by-and-by. So while there is a "not yet" aspect to the kingdom, there are also very real, daily aspects to it in the way we live. As I said above, some of these are very practical things, bringing fulness of joy.