The Kingdom of God

When can we expect God’s kingdom to come down? It is a question men have been trying to answer. Many think we can seize God’s kingdom, or win a war to bring it on to the earth. And some think it is here already; it’s just invisible, so we don’t see it. Those who think it is here advocate for faith to see the unseen. In fact, without faith it is not worth fighting for the unseen either.

The Lord once gave a prophet named Daniel a dream about the saints of God receiving the kingdom (Dan 7). In the account of this dream we see that there was a beast who had a horn which waged war against the saints, “defeating them.” (Dan 7:21). During this time the “Ancient of Days came and pronounce judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom” (vs 22). We see, then, that the word “time” in this verse refers to the coming of the great kingdom of God on the earth.

There is also mention of this same event in the book of Revelation, chapter 13. “He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them.”(vs 7). The saints were admonished to have “patient endurance and faithfulness” (vs 10).

I believe that people would rather have faith to seize God’s kingdom than to have patient endurance and faithfulness when things do not go well for them. In fact, Jesus said that the kingdom of God had been suffering forceful attacks since John the Baptist, and than violent me were take a hold of it (Mt 11:12). Is Jesus saying that it is up to us to forcefully take the kingdom of God?

There is a frustration that comes with trying to force the will and the timing of men on the coming of God’s kingdom, which is His own. I do not believe we will see God’s kingdom come through our efforts, but that through patience and faithfulness we will endure to see this victory established by the Lord. Then we will see God’s kingdom come.

There is a kingdom of God “in the midst” of us; a growing power to overcome and to be seated with Jesus in authority. These things we should have faith for. Our prayers should carry the faith in our hearts to our Lord, for He is listening. But we cannot change the times nor the seasons. It is the antichrist who tries to do that (Dan 7:25). Today, as we seek God’s kingdom and the reign of our King, let us encourage one another in the present trials. He will come, and is faithful to do all that He promised. Amen.