The concept of the "Coming Kingdom of God" is a central theme throughout the Bible, encompassing both the Old and New Testaments. It refers to the future establishment of God's sovereign rule over all creation, a time when His will is perfectly realized on earth as it is in heaven. This entry explores the biblical foundation, characteristics, and implications of the Coming Kingdom of God.

Old Testament Foundations

The anticipation of God's kingdom is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The prophets frequently spoke of a future time when God would establish His rule over the nations. Isaiah prophesied, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). This passage points to the coming Messiah, who will inaugurate God's kingdom.

Daniel's vision further elaborates on this theme: "In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will shatter all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, but will itself stand forever" (Daniel 2:44). This prophecy underscores the eternal and unshakeable nature of God's kingdom.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the Coming Kingdom of God is central to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He began His ministry proclaiming, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel" (Mark 1:15). Jesus' message emphasized the nearness of the kingdom, calling for repentance and faith.

The Lord's Prayer, taught by Jesus, includes the petition, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This prayer reflects the longing for God's kingdom to be fully realized on earth, aligning human affairs with divine purposes.

Characteristics of the Kingdom

The Coming Kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness, peace, and justice. The prophet Isaiah describes a time when "the wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat" (Isaiah 11:6), symbolizing a harmonious creation under God's rule. The kingdom is also marked by the presence of the King, Jesus Christ, who will reign with authority and compassion.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul writes, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17). This highlights the spiritual nature of the kingdom, which transforms the hearts and lives of believers.

The Role of the Church

The Church plays a vital role in the anticipation and proclamation of the Coming Kingdom. Believers are called to be ambassadors of Christ, spreading the message of the kingdom and living as citizens of heaven. The Apostle Peter exhorts Christians to "live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us" (1 Peter 2:12).

Eschatological Fulfillment

The ultimate fulfillment of the Coming Kingdom of God is eschatological, culminating in the return of Jesus Christ. The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of this future reality: "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever" (Revelation 11:15). This passage affirms the final and complete establishment of God's kingdom, where Christ reigns supreme.

The Coming Kingdom of God is a profound and transformative hope for believers, promising a future where God's perfect will is accomplished, and His glory is fully revealed.