-
Mark 9:1 - The kingdom of God was imminent.
-
Colossians 1:13
-
The metaphor kingdom never refers to a local church.
-
First, it refers to the rules of the king. (Luke 17:21
-
Then, it refers to the citizenry. (Colossians 1:13
-
Also, it sometimes refers to heaven. (Matthew 13:43
-
Facts about the kingdom
-
John, Jesus, the apostles, and the seventy taught that it was at hand (Matthew 3:3
-
Jesus taught the gospel of the kingdom (Matthew 4:23
-
Some contemporary with Jesus would see it (Mark 9:1
-
After Acts 2
-
It is spiritual, not earthly (John 18:36
-
It is everlasting, not temporary (Luke 1:33
-
Preachers are to preach it (Acts 8:12
-
It is not a democracy - the citizens do not make the laws.
-
It is not a mobarchy - not run by a few strong arms.
-
It is not an aristocracy - not run by an aristocratic few.
-
It is a monarchical republic - has a King and a Constitution.
-
Christ is King with all authority (John 18:37
-
Its Constitution revealed through the apostles (Matthew 18:18
-
Its Constitution is complete and perfect (II Peter 1:3
-
The citizens position is one of subjection, not legislating.
-
Christ must be honored (Matthew 17:5
-
Essentials of citizenship
-
Enter by new birth (John 3:3-5
-
Continue by doing His will (Matthew 7:21
-
Must seek first (Matthew 6:33
-
Greatness therein determined by service
-
Judgment picture
-
Honor the King and His Constitution (Matthew 25:24
-
Reject the King and His Constitution (II Thessalonians 1:7-9