The Kingdom of God is one of the core concepts of the Christian faith and a frequently mentioned theme in Jesus' teachings. The Kingdom of God can be understood as both present and future, and refers to the place where God's reign is realized. This concept is explained in detail as follows:
1. Definition of the Kingdom of God
The kingdom of God refers to a place where God’s sovereignty and rule are fully realized. This does not simply mean a physical place, but a state in which God's will and will are fully realized.
2. The Kingdom of God in the Teachings of Jesus
- Mentions in the Gospels : Jesus explained the kingdom of God through several parables and teachings in the Gospels. He declared, “The kingdom of God is at hand” (Matthew 4:17), and emphasized repentance and faith.
- Explanation through parables : Jesus explained God's message through the parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32), the parable of the yeast (Matthew 13:33), and the parable of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46). He taught us that a country starts from a small and invisible beginning and grows bigger and bigger, and that it is precious and valuable.
3. Current aspect
- God's reign and presence : The kingdom of God has already come to this earth through Jesus. This means that God works sovereignly in the world and in people’s lives. Through Jesus' ministry, the sick were healed, demons were cast out, and the gospel was preached to the poor. These ministries show that the kingdom of God has already begun.
- Implementation in the lives of believers : The kingdom of God is revealed in the lives of believers. Christians live according to the teachings of Jesus and expand God's kingdom on earth by practicing love, justice, peace, and forgiveness.
4. Futuristic aspect
- Full Realization : The Kingdom of God is not yet fully realized. At the second coming of Jesus, the kingdom of God will be fully realized. At that time, all sin, pain, and evil will disappear, and the new heaven and new earth, completely ruled by God, will arrive (Revelation 21:1-4).
- Judgment and Salvation : The Kingdom of God includes a day of judgment to distinguish between the righteous and the wicked. Those who believe will enjoy eternal life and eternal fellowship with God, while those who do not believe will receive eternal punishment (Matthew 25:31-46).
5. Our role in God’s kingdom
- Prayer : In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come” (Matthew 6:10). We must pray for God's kingdom to come to this earth and for God's will to be accomplished.
- Evangelism and missions : Expanding the kingdom of God is the mission of every Christian. We must testify to the kingdom of God by preaching the gospel and practicing God's love and justice (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Sanctification : Christians must pursue holiness every day with the help of the Holy Spirit and live in obedience to the will of God. This is how we realize the kingdom of God in our lives (Romans 12:1-2).
conclusion
The Kingdom of God is an important concept that includes both present and future dimensions. It has already begun through Jesus, but it will be completed at the second coming of Jesus. We must acknowledge God’s reign and live by realizing His will. Through this, we can live in hope for the day when God's kingdom will expand further on this earth and ultimately be completed.