Rediscovering the Kingdom Concept
Jesus made this statement: But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. It is most important to note that God the Creator chose the concept of a kingdom to communicate His purpose, will and plan for mankind and planet earth to us. The message of God's Constitution is obviously, primarily about a kingdom. If you don't understand kingdoms, then it is impossible for you to understand God's Constitution (Bible) and its message. However, over the past 2000 years the true concept of kingdom has been lost especially since the advent of modern governments built on new concepts of governing, such as democracy, socialism, communism and dictatorships.
Keep in mind, the kingdom concept was born in the heart of man, placed there by his Creator as the purpose for which he was created. Despite the fact that there were many types of kingdoms throughout history, there are certain characteristics common to all kingdoms. The Kingdom of God, according to Jesus, also possesses these components: a. A king and Lord--a sovereign b. A territory--a domain c. A constitution--a royal covenant d. A citizenry--community of subjects e. Laws--acceptable principles f. Privileges--rights and benefits g. A code of ethics--acceptable lifestyle and conduct h. An army--security i. A commonwealth--economic security, and j. A social culture--protocol and procedures.
Thoughtful Questions:
Keep in mind, the kingdom concept was born in the heart of man, placed there by his Creator as the purpose for which he was created. Despite the fact that there were many types of kingdoms throughout history, there are certain characteristics common to all kingdoms. The Kingdom of God, according to Jesus, also possesses these components: a. A king and Lord--a sovereign b. A territory--a domain c. A constitution--a royal covenant d. A citizenry--community of subjects e. Laws--acceptable principles f. Privileges--rights and benefits g. A code of ethics--acceptable lifestyle and conduct h. An army--security i. A commonwealth--economic security, and j. A social culture--protocol and procedures.
Thoughtful Questions:
- Defining the kingdom concept through the characteristics common to all kingdoms can be useful as you explain the Kingdom of God to unbelievers.
- If we handled our call to dominion so poorly, why is the Father so pleased to give us the Kingdom? Remember: But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
- Proof of each of these components above is found in Scripture. Find a verse or passage for each one that contains the component the identity of who or what each is.
- Of the components listed above, determine what responsibility you have to make a difference, if any. Is there anything you can do to assist the component to take its proper place in the earth today?
Religion has perverted our understand by converting the message of the Kingdom of God into a moral belief system. The result is that religion has become an end in itself, distinguishing itself from the kingdom concept with pride. In fact, many religions take pride in the separation of religion and state, while viewing the two opposing entities with no common relationship. The dilemma is that the kingdom is a state government with all the characteristics of a state.
Closing Questions: How is the Kingdom of God different from a moral belief system? What are you able to do to allow the Kingdom to invade earth in a practical way?
Luke 12:31-32
~~W.R. Luchie
Closing Questions: How is the Kingdom of God different from a moral belief system? What are you able to do to allow the Kingdom to invade earth in a practical way?
Luke 12:31-32
~~W.R. Luchie
