When you hear the phrase “Kingdom of God,” what comes to mind? A faraway place? Possibly another planet? Do you look up when referring to heaven? The Gospel of the Kingdom is in the past, present, and future. Jesus says in Matthew 4:17, “repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” What did Jesus mean by this statement, and what does this mean for you? Jesus is fully human and fully divine, both God and human. The kingdom refers to God’s holiness, perfection, and creation in its original form, meaning before “the fall.” Jesus was the full expression of God, His character, and His Majesty. Jesus reminds us that heaven will be restored on earth, not some other planet or faraway universe. Jesus is instructing His audience that the kingdom has always been, and the kingdom will once again reign on earth. Everyone needs to repent (turn from our broken ways) if they are to experience the kingdom of God firsthand.
As kingdom people understanding that the Kingdom of God is past, present, and future, it imperative for repenting and living into the kingdom calling Christians have on their lives. The expression “on earth as it is in heaven” is the Christian’s call to duty. One of the greatest gifts of salvation (reconciling all of creation) is that we are very much a part of the mysterious mission of bringing heaven to earth as Christians. If the world and its temporal promises are devouring us, we will miss out on the privilege and promises of living the kingdom life here on earth. Remember, the kingdom is being restored right here and right now. It will not be completed until Jesus returns, but at some point in the future, this planet we call home will be reconciled, along with all of creation back to God and restored back to its perfected state. You don’t want to miss this experience, so repent and embrace your kingdom calling.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from today’s reflection and readings?
- What does it mean to repent? Have you repented?
- How would you describe the Kingdom of God to another?
- What can you learn from the temptations Jesus experienced with Satan?
- How do you use God to shield yourself from the temptations of this world?
- Wisdom should be our aim; fools hate knowledge. Are you wise or a fool?
Prayer
Lord, You are the creator of all things, and You are Holy and perfect in every way. Please grant me the humility, willingness, honesty, and open-mindedness it takes to repent and to live into the kingdom call on my life. May your will not mine be done always. In Your Spirt and Your name, I pray these things, Amen.
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