Discover the profound connection between The Kingdom of God and the World. Learn how this understanding can lead to personal growth and holistic development.
In the grand tapestry of life, two threads weave a complex pattern—the Kingdom of God and the World. These two seemingly different entities intertwine in ways that profoundly impact our journey toward holistic development.
The Kingdom of God, a concept deeply rooted in theology, represents a divine realm where love, peace, and justice reign supreme. On the other hand, the world, in its tangible reality, presents us with challenges and opportunities that shape our character and worldview.
Understanding the interplay between these two realms becomes crucial as we navigate through the maze of life. It’s like learning to dance with the rhythm of life, where every step towards understanding The Kingdom of God and the World is a step towards personal growth and holistic development.
The Kingdom of God and the World
Suppose you have followed this series with me, which is about understanding the difference between the Kingdom of God and religion regarding humanity.
We will dig further into the world’s relationship regarding the Kingdom of God.
According to the New Testament. The entire world had been placed under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
Christians’ hope is related to the completion of God’s purpose.
To bring all things in Heaven and on Earth together. Under Him as Lord and to liberate humanity from sin and death in His Kingdom.
This is the Christ the Church acknowledges as the Lord of the whole universe.
In affirming His universal Lordship, the Church finds the basis for its mission.
Christ has been enthroned as King. And his sovereignty extends over the totality of Creation. As such, he commissions his disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28: 18-20).
The Church expresses Jesus Christ’s universal Lordship, the concrete manifestation of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus is Lord of all, which means sovereignty over all humanity and everything in the earth realm.
But also, at present. He grants the blessings of the Kingdom of God to all who call upon His name (Rom. 10: 12).
The fact that He is head over all things. It is essential because He has been granted dominion over the Church. It may be filled with His fullness (Eph. 1: 22).
As the exalted Lord whose authority extends to the whole universe, He has given His people gifts that enable them to grow into an organic unity.
They can imitate the model of humanity perfectly realized in His person (Eph. 4: 10).
He is the ‘firstborn’ of the old Creation under His role. God’s wisdom is, at the same time, the ‘firstborn’ of the new Creation under His resurrection (Col. 1: 15, 18).
He who is ‘the head of all rule and authority (Col. 2: 10) is also ‘the head of the body, the Church (Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23), the head from which the Church receives its life (Col. 2: 19).
By Christ’s death, God wanted ‘to reconcile to Himself to all things’ (Col. 1:20).
He reconciled the believers in His body to make them holy and blameless. And irreproachable before him’ (Col. 1:22).
The fact that He is at the right hand of God. This affirms His superiority as the one who mediates as King of all Creation, And it is also a statement of His ministry of intercession on behalf of His people (Heb. 1:3; 10:12; Rom. 8:24).
This whole direction of the New Testament leads us to determine whether the Church is to be correctly understood.
It must be seen in God’s universal purpose in Christ Jesus.
God intends to bring all things in Heaven and Earth under one head, even Christ (Eph. 1: 10).
This ‘open secret’ is already taking shape in the Church. Whose confession of Jesus Christ expects the fulfillment of God’s purpose.
‘That at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow. In Heaven, on Earth, and under the Earth, every tongue confesses that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God, the Father.
Because of that obedience, God lifted Him high and honored Him far beyond anyone or anything. So that all created beings are in Heaven and on Earth.
Even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before Yeshua Jesus Christ. And call out in praise that He is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father. Philippians 2:10-11.
To speak of the Kingdom of God is a universal gospel. A message centered on the Son sent by the Father to be the Savior of the World. 1 John 4: 14
The Son is God coming to Earth through flesh to save His Creation. He became human.
The word human comes from the Latin “humus,” meaning Earth or ground.
To make the ultimate sacrifice and make sure. God’s purpose of the Kingdom coming to Earth as it is in Heaven comes to pass.
God’s purpose includes the entire world, but this does not mean all people automatically belong to the Kingdom.
The Kingdom of God is an eschatological order. That one must enter. And this entry is only possible by fulfilling specific conditions (Matt. 5:20; 7:21; 18:3; 19:23; Mark 10:23; Romans 10:9-10).
Consequently, the mandate of the Kingdom of God is not only the declaration of an objective fact concerning which men and women should be informed.
At the same time, it is a declaration of objective reality and a call to faith.
The God of redemption is also the Creator and Judge of all humanity. Who will give justice and reconciliation?
Therefore, His purpose for the Church cannot be separated from his intention for the world.
The Church is appropriately understood only when seen as the sign of God’s universal Kingdom, the first fruits of redeemed humanity.
Here and now, in anticipation of the end, in the Church. And through the Church.
The entire world is placed under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and, therefore, under God’s promise of a new Heaven and Earth in the Kingdom of God.
One cannot read the New Testament and still try to understand the Church apart from God’s purpose for humanity and history, from which it originates its significance.
The universality of the gospel. However, it does not mean the participation of all people in the Kingdom of God.
But the Church declared the Kingdom to all people (Acts 1:8; 19:8; 28:23).
The Church is not supposed to be a cult made of a few souls rescued from the turbulent sea of history.
But the universal manifestation of the manifold wisdom of God, who created all things (Eph. 3:9,10).
The new man in whom the image of the Second Adam is reproduced (Eph. 2: 15; 4: 13; 1 Cor. 15:45), the first fruits of new humanity (James 1: 18).
Speaking of the Kingdom of God concerning the world is not simply acknowledging God’s divine intervention but speaking of the Mediator-King Jesus Christ.
His reign is made evident (although not yet in its fullness) in the community which confesses His name.
It also confirms that God has a goal for history. Providing meaning and direction for the mission of the Church at this point and currently.
God is at work to bring about his purpose for Creation. In the power of the Spirit, the Church proclaims salvation in Christ and plants signs of the Kingdom.
She is always giving herself entirely to the work of the Lord, knowing that her labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Cor. 15: 58).
From the previous discussion, the following conclusions become apparent:
Both evangelism and social responsibility can only be understood in the light that in Jesus Christ, the Kingdom of God has invaded history and is now both a present reality and future hope, an ‘already’ and a ‘not yet.
So, the Kingdom of God is not a developing social improvement for humanity.
At the same time, the task of the Church is to transform Earth-like into Heaven. And do it now!
God’s redemptive power was released in history. He is bringing good news to the poor.
Freedom for the prisoners, sight for the blind, and liberation for the oppressed. As is yet to come.
The most comprehensive examination and insightful human need is a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, through whom the Kingdom is reconciled.
Scripture reassures us, “No one who trusts God like this—heart and soul—will ever regret it.”
It’s the same regardless of a person’s religious background. The same God for all of us, acting incredibly generous to everyone who calls out for help.
“Everyone who calls, ‘Help, God!’ gets help.” Romans 10:12-13 MSG
The same Lord is Lord and richly blesses all who call on him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
The Church is called to manifest the Kingdom of God according to God’s will.
Here and now, what she is and what she announces,
Because the Kingdom of God has already and is yet to come, ‘between the times, the Church is both an eschatological and historical reality.
Suppose the Church does not fully manifest the Kingdom. That is not because God’s dynamic rule has occupied the present age without the authority or the power to transform it into the coming generation.
But because the ending has not yet arrived. The power active in the Church is like the working of God’s mighty strength.
Which he applied in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.
Far above all rule and authority. Power, dominion, and every title can be given in the present age and the one to come (Eph. 1:20,21).
The mission of the Church is a historical manifestation of that power, in the power of the Holy Spirit, through word and deed.
Because of His death and resurrection, Jesus Christ has been crowned as Lord of the universe.
The universe, therefore, has been placed under His Lordship.
The Church believes in the destiny of all humanity. Between the times, therefore, the Church. The community which confesses Jesus Christ as Lord. She acknowledges God as ‘both the Creator and the Judge of all men.’
The Church is called to share His concern for justice. And reconciliation throughout human society. And for the liberation of humanity from every kind of oppression.
Commitment to Jesus Christ is a commitment to Him as the Lord of the universe. Human history’s final destiny is the King before whom every knee will bow.
But the finale of God’s Kingdom is God’s work. Man will not establish God’s kingdom.
Humans are not to be exalted but humbled when they fall victim to misconceptions about their power.
My study is about understanding the difference between religion and the Kingdom as it relates to humanity and how it affects man’s search for the Kingdom.
This is what I have learned.
Because religion’s power lies in its ability to substitute for the Kingdom, it hinders humanity from pursuing the genuine answer to its dilemma.
- Religion preoccupies humans until they find the Kingdom.
- Religion is what humans do until they find the Kingdom.
- Religion prepares humans to leave Earth; the Kingdom empowers humans to dominate Earth.
- Religion focuses on Heaven; the Kingdom focuses on Earth.
- Religion is reaching up to God; the Kingdom is God coming down to humanity.
- Religion wants to escape Earth, and the Kingdom impacts, influences, and changes Earth.
- Religion looks to take Earth to Heaven; the Kingdom wants to bring Heaven to Earth.
I hope this article inspires you to consider the Kingdom of God over religion.
May the Kingdom of God come into your life. And God’s will be done. In Earth, just as it is in Heaven.
Conclusion: What are your thoughts on The Kingdom of God and the World?
In conclusion, the journey towards holistic development is a dance between understanding The Kingdom of God and engaging with the world. It’s about finding harmony in the contradiction, learning from both realms, and using that wisdom to grow and develop.
As we continue to explore these concepts, I empower myself and others, fostering a community that values personal growth, holistic development, and spiritual enlightenment. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination; every step is towards a better you.
Make sure you read all the parts of this series
Understanding The Kingdom of God vs Religion: A Comprehensive Guide
Exploring The Kingdom of God and the Church: A Journey Within
Exploring the Mission of The Kingdom of God Within The Church
Exploring The Kingdom of God and the World: A Journey Towards Holistic Development
Let’s venture on this journey of personal development together.
Remember, the Kingdom of God is within you!
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Have You Received Salvation?
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.
God didn’t send his Son merely to point an accusing finger and tell the world how bad it was. He came to help, to set the world right again.
Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because that person failed to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him. John 3:16-18
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me.” John 14:6
“I assure you and most solemnly say to you. Unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the Kingdom of God.” John 3:3
How Can Anyone Be Born Again Who Has Already Been Born and Grown Up?
“I assure you and most solemnly say to you unless one is born of water and the Spirit. He cannot [ever] enter the Kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh [the physical is merely physical], and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit.” John 3:5-6
Born from Above
“Therefore IF anyone is in Christ, he IS a NEW creation, old things have passed away, behold all things have become NEW.” 2 Cor 5:17
What does the Bible say about how you get salvation?
The ABCs of salvation is the acronym for admitting, believing, and confessing.
“That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and is justified; with your mouth, you confess and are saved.” Romans 10:9-10
“Because if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God]. And believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved. With the heart, a person believes [in Christ as Savior]. Resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]. With the mouth, he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation.” Romans 10:9-10 (AMP)
We receive salvation in Christ through repentance and faith. This means changing our thinking, turning away from sinful ways (repentance), turning to God (faith), and trusting Christ.
Jesus will forgive our sins and set us on a path to life with Him. We cannot earn this right. It is His gift.
It is a gift because Jesus has already forgiven you. He is waiting for you to choose Him at this very moment.
What If You Die Today?
Have you ever thought about that question? People die every day, and many of those deaths are unexpected. Have you ever considered your eternal destiny?
If so,…
Choose to receive the Kingdom of God by Confessing that Jesus is Lord.
Pray this Prayer
“Father God, Holy is your name. Your Kingdom comes, and You will be done in my life.
Come into my heart and my mind as my Lord and Savior. Take complete control of my life and help me to walk in your Spirit and not in my flesh daily by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Father God, I welcome your word into my life and declare and decree that “Jesus is my Master .”
Embracing my body, soul, and Spirit, I call out to God, trusting that you do it for your glory.
Bless me with revelation, knowledge, and wisdom. Teach me your ways. I want a real relationship with you, Father God.
You have set everything right between You and me! Thank You, Lord, for saving me and answering my prayer in Jesus’ Name. It is so. Amen.”
That’s salvation. With your whole being, you embrace God, setting things right, and then you say it right out loud: “God has set everything right between him and me!”
RESOURCES
Munroe, M. (2004, November 1). Rediscovering the Kingdom: Ancient Hope for Our 21st Century World. Destiny Image Incorporated.
The Mission of The Church Is In Light Of The Kingdom Of God. C. Rene Padilla. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/026537888400100206
Religion vs. Kingdom. Advancing Kingdom. https://advancingkingdom.org/2018/11/03/religion-vs-kingdom/
Christianity. World History Encyclopedia. https://www.worldhistory.org/christianity/
The King, The Keys, and The Kingdom Part 1. Myles Munroe. https://youtu.be/83cBiiyYdd0
Thank you for this thought-provoking post. Your insights into the relationship between the Kingdom of God and the world are deeply inspiring. This piece has given me a lot to reflect on and has helped me see things from a new perspective. It’s a wonderful resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of faith and its impact on our everyday lives. Much appreciated!
Hi Samuel,
Thank you for your heartfelt comment! I’m glad the post resonated with you. It offered a new view on the relationship between the Kingdom of God and the world. Knowing the content helps others understand faith and its impact on life, which is gratifying.
Reflection is a powerful tool in our spiritual journey. I’m glad this piece gave you valuable insights. If there are any specific topics or questions you’d like to explore further, please feel free to share. I’m always here to discuss and delve deeper into these meaningful subjects.
Much appreciated, Samuel, and thank you for being part of this community.
Blessings,
Jamie