The concept of earthly kingdoms is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the temporal and often flawed nature of human governance in contrast to the eternal and perfect kingdom of God. Earthly kingdoms are depicted as both instruments of divine purpose and as entities prone to corruption and idolatry.

Divine Sovereignty and Earthly Rule

The Bible affirms that all authority ultimately derives from God, who establishes and deposes kings according to His will. In Daniel 2:21 , it is written, "He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them." This underscores the belief that earthly kingdoms exist under the sovereign control of God, serving His purposes even when they appear to act independently.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Kingdoms

Earthly kingdoms are portrayed as transient and often unstable. In Daniel 2, the vision of the statue composed of various materials symbolizes successive empires, each eventually giving way to another. This imagery highlights the temporary nature of human rule, culminating in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom, as described in Daniel 2:44 : "In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed."

The Flaws and Failures of Earthly Kingdoms

Scripture frequently illustrates the moral and spiritual failings of earthly kingdoms. In 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites' demand for a king "like all the other nations" (1 Samuel 8:5) is met with a warning from God about the oppressive nature of human kingship. This narrative reveals the tendency of earthly rulers to prioritize power and self-interest over justice and righteousness.

The book of Ecclesiastes reflects on the futility and vanity of human endeavors, including political power. Ecclesiastes 1:14 states, "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun, and indeed, all is vanity and a chasing after the wind." This perspective emphasizes the limitations and ultimate insignificance of earthly achievements apart from God.

Earthly Kingdoms as Instruments of Judgment and Blessing

Despite their flaws, earthly kingdoms can serve as instruments of God's judgment and blessing. The Assyrian and Babylonian empires, for example, were used by God to discipline Israel and Judah for their disobedience, as seen in passages like Isaiah 10:5-6 : "Woe to Assyria, the rod of My anger; the staff in their hands is My wrath. I will send him against a godless nation; I will dispatch him against a people destined for My rage."

Conversely, God can use earthly rulers to bring about His purposes and blessings. The Persian king Cyrus is described as God's "anointed" in Isaiah 45:1 , chosen to facilitate the return of the Jewish exiles and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

The Contrast with God's Kingdom

The New Testament further contrasts earthly kingdoms with the kingdom of God, which is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Jesus' teachings often highlight the differences between worldly power and the values of God's kingdom. In John 18:36 , Jesus declares, "My kingdom is not of this world," emphasizing the spiritual nature of His reign.

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 present a vision of the kingdom of heaven that is countercultural to earthly values, blessing the poor in spirit, the meek, and those who hunger for righteousness. This teaching underscores the transformative and redemptive nature of God's kingdom, in stark contrast to the often self-serving nature of earthly rule.

Conclusion

The Bible presents a nuanced view of earthly kingdoms, recognizing their role within God's sovereign plan while also acknowledging their inherent limitations and moral failings. Through these narratives and teachings, believers are encouraged to place their ultimate hope and allegiance in the eternal kingdom of God, which transcends the temporal and flawed nature of human governance.