“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power” 1 Corinthians 4,20 (NIV) |
This will not be an exhaustive definition of what the kingdom of God is but it's what I have received and learnt, like the Apostle Paul said: “As you read what I have written, you will understand my insight into this plan regarding Christ” (Ephesians 3,4 NLT)
In simple words, the kingdom of God is a realm where God reigns.
In the kingdom of God, God is King and He rules.
There is a fundamental element in understanding ‘kingdomship’: the connection between rulership and obedience. It's like this: the one you obey is the one that has rule over you.
There are different kinds of kingdoms (realms/domains).
In the spirit world, there are two major kinds of kingdoms: the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness.
“You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God”. (Ephesians 2,2 NLT). The NIV translation calls 'the commander of the powers of the unseen world' "the ruler of the kingdom of the air ". This kingdom of the air is also referred to as the kingdom of darkness. This is a realm where the devil is obeyed and therefore he has the rule.
Above the kingdom of darkness is the kingdom of God.
“For he” [God] “has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.” Colossians 1,13-14(NLT)
Those who have given their lives to the Lord Jesus Christ are in the kingdom of light and they have no reason to be afraid of the devil because he has no power or authority over them.
“and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.” Colossians 1,12(NIV) |
There is an inheritance for the saints.
“ ... you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.” Romans 8,15-17 (NLT)
Part of this glory is dominion. Jesus is called the King of Kings; and those of/in His kingdom are also kings and they are to reign in life by Him (Romans 5,17)(Revelation 1,5-6).
Jesus’ dominion is not the domineering type. It serves God and people. It glorifies the name of the Holy One True God.
“I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.” Ephesians 1,19-23 (NLT) |
