What Is the Kingdom?Sample

Scripture clearly teaches us that the Kingdom of God is His rule and reign. That which Jesus has complete control over and rules is IN the Kingdom - the Kingdom has come! Both the Old Testament word for the Kingdom of God and the New Testament word do NOT refer primarily to the realm or the people when they speak of the Kingdom. These words describe the power and authority of a king reigning! A king exerting his power to bring everything under his control and rule.

Old Testament (Hebrew): malkuw (Daniel 2:44)

New Testament (Greek) basileia (Matthew 13:47; Revelation 11:15-17)

The defining focus of the Kingdom is One who is reigning. That which He reigns over is in the Kingdom. The Kingdom is His practical authority over our lives and our complete and utter surrender and obedience to that authority. The Kingdom is all about authority - who is in control. The Kingdom of God is NOT a democracy; it is a rightful King exerting complete rights and authority to rule every area of His subjects’ lives. Self-surrender is the first and only response to Christ as we are confronted with the Kingdom of God.

Reflection Questions

• Who makes the decisions in your life? How do you decide what to do every day?
• Have you surrendered to Christ and is He literally and practically Lord and King over all that you have? Take the time to really expand on your answer; think over each area of your life and ask yourself if Christ is ruling over that area or not.