The prophecy that the Kingdom will be the LORD's is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's ultimate sovereignty and the establishment of His divine rule over all creation. This prophetic vision is rooted in the expectation of God's righteous reign, which is anticipated in both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of God's kingdom is deeply embedded in the Hebrew Scriptures. The prophet Obadiah, in his vision concerning Edom, declares, "The kingdom will be the LORD's" (Obadiah 1:21). This statement encapsulates the hope that God's dominion will be fully realized, transcending earthly powers and establishing divine justice and peace.

The Psalms frequently echo this theme, celebrating God's eternal kingship. Psalm 22:28 states, "For dominion belongs to the LORD and He rules over the nations" . This verse underscores the belief that, despite current appearances, God is the ultimate ruler of the world, and His kingdom will be manifest in due time.

The prophetic literature, particularly in books like Isaiah and Daniel, further develops this theme. Isaiah envisions a future where God's reign brings about universal peace and righteousness: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders... Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end" (Isaiah 9:6-7). Daniel's visions also highlight the establishment of God's everlasting kingdom, as seen in Daniel 2:44: "In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed" .

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament presents the fulfillment of these Old Testament prophecies through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Gospels proclaim the arrival of the kingdom of God with Jesus' ministry. In Mark 1:15, Jesus announces, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel" . This declaration signals the inauguration of God's kingdom through Christ's presence and mission.

Jesus' teachings further elucidate the nature of God's kingdom. In the Lord's Prayer, He instructs His followers to pray, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This prayer reflects the anticipation of God's kingdom being fully realized on earth, aligning with His heavenly will.

The apostolic writings continue to affirm the certainty of God's kingdom. The book of Revelation vividly portrays the ultimate triumph of God's reign. Revelation 11:15 proclaims, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever" . This eschatological vision assures believers of the final establishment of God's kingdom, where His authority is recognized universally.

Theological Implications

The prophecy that the kingdom will be the LORD's carries profound theological implications. It affirms God's sovereignty and the certainty of His divine plan. Believers are called to live in light of this reality, participating in the kingdom's present manifestation through faith and obedience while anticipating its future consummation.

This prophetic hope also provides comfort and encouragement, assuring believers that despite the challenges and injustices of the present age, God's righteous rule will ultimately prevail. The kingdom's future fulfillment inspires a life of hope, perseverance, and active engagement in God's redemptive work in the world.