Comment to 'What exactly is the kingdom of God anyway?'
Comment to What exactly is the kingdom of God anyway?

  • E

    To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God. Acts 1:3

    This passage was one I read through a number of times before finally noticing the kingdom of God part. The fact that Jesus spent His final 40 days on earth with His disciples focused on the kingdom should tell you just how significant this is. If you read through the gospels you will also see that the good news of the kingdom of God was His central theme that He preached and taught.
    But He said to them, “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, for I was sent for this purpose.” Luke 4:43

    Paul continued the theme.

    “And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. Acts 20:25

    There is a lot more concerning the kingdom but wanted to put these few scriptures out there as food for thought. 

    • T

      Ed, you said, "The fact that Jesus spent His final 40 days on earth with His disciples focused on the kingdom should tell you just how significant this is." That is a very profound insight. Thanks so much for sharing.

      As I see more and more how God's kingdom (or reign) is central to Jesus' teaching, it makes me think how much I should go back and reread the entire New Testament with this in mind. Or even better, the entire Bible. Usually I read Scripture with an eye toward salvation, knowing that salvation brings about God's purpose for His people. But I have never really given any thought about reading Scripture from the viewpoint of God's reign. Every comment here reinforces the need for me to build on top of what I already know about God's sovereign grace and to begin thinking about how God's reign comes to fruition. Thank you all!

      • E

        Todd it is exciting that you are seeking His kingdom! About 20 years ago when He opened my eyes about the kingdom I essentially did what you are thinking about; I reread the Bible mostly New Testament really with a view to the kingdom as a central theme. Really will change your perspective!

        I recently started a blog discussing the kingdom if you are interested at

        https://edwsny1.dreamhosters.com/contact-us/

        if you find value in what I write i welcome an ongoing conversation about this and you are free to contact me at the email on the site. God bless! Ed