Bible Studies To-Go | The Kingdom of God: A Present Reality and a Future Hope

"Greatness in the kingdom of God is measured in terms of obedience." - John Stott, British Anglican pastor and theologian (1921-2011)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our concise studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. In-depth Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Opening Prayer: "God, we are grateful to be here together. Please speak to us through your Word and help us to listen with open hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Background Information: The idea of the Kingdom of God is a central message throughout the Bible, and was at the core of Jesus' ministry. "Kingdom of Heaven" was used by Matthew out of respect to Jewish customs and to avoid the use of God's name directly. Both are equivalent.

The kingdom is not specified as being situated in the physical world, but rather as the dynamic and supreme authority of God, initiated by Jesus and revealed through his life, teachings, and miracles. Related scriptures are: Psalm 103:19 (NIV); Mark 1:14-15 (NIV); Matthew 12:28 (NIV)

Topic for Study: The concept of the Kingdom of God. 

As mentioned above, the principle of the Kingdom of God is a central idea throughout the Bible, and was essential to the ministry of Jesus. For example:

• In Matthew 3:2 (NIV), John the Baptist announces the immediacy of the "kingdom of heaven."
• Jesus launched his public ministry with the message, "The time has come... The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" - Mark 1:15 (NIV)
• In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, he instructed his disciples to emphasize this reality, saying, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Thought-Provoking Question: What are some common misunderstandings you have heard about the Kingdom of God?"

Section One: The Bible informs us that the Kingdom of God is both in the present moment and a future hope. In other words, it is "already" present now, but "not yet" fulfilled, as seen below. 

The Kingdom is already here as demonstrated in:

• Jesus' presence - Luke 17:21 (NIV)
• Jesus' demonstration of power - Luke 11:20 (NIV)
• A spiritual rebirth - John 3:3 (NIV)
• One's inner transformation - Romans 14:17 (NIV) 

The Kingdom is not yet complete: 

• Matthew 6:10 (NIV) - Jesus taught his disciple to pray for the kingdom to "come" and for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
• Matthew 13:24-30, 47-50 (NIV) - The final separation of the righteous and wicked will occur at the end of the age as portrayed in the parables of the wheat and tares and the fishnet.
• The full establishment of the kingdom will occur upon the return of Jesus. - Revelation 11:15 (NIV)

Thought-Provoking Question: How does understanding the kingdom of God as "already" and "not yet" affect your view of everyday life and the future?

Section Two: Parables were used by Jesus to illustrate the Kingdom of God, utilizing everyday images to reveal its nature.

• Matthew 13:44-46 (NIV) - The parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl underscore the tremendous worth of the kingdom, requiring total commitment.
• Matthew 13:31-33 (NIV) - The parables of the mustard seed and yeast demonstrate that the kingdom begins small but develops into something immense and powerful.
• Mark 4:26-29 (NIV) - The parable of the growing seed highlights that God is the one who starts and produces this growth.

Thought-Provoking Question: How do these parables provide encouragement for spreading the gospel and spiritual leadership, especially when the results are not immediately visible?

Section Three: Being a citizen in the Kingdom involves a transformation of values and obedience to God. We are asked to testify to Christ's kingship by personifying kingdom principles in our daily lives, such as service, mission, and love.

• Matthew 28:18-20
• Acts 1:6-8
• John 13:34-35

Thought-Provoking Question: How can our actions and attitudes reveal God's kingdom in our families, workplaces, and communities?

Conclusion:

What is the Kingdom purpose? All Kingdom citizens are entrusted to proclaim the gospel and live righteously, exhibiting "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit." - Matthew 24:14 (NIV); Romans 14:17 (NIV)

Key Question: "How can I access the Kingdom of God?" Access to the Kingdom requires a self-effacing (humble) and submissive attitude, rather than temporal (worldly) success. This means that one must:

• Be born again - John 3:3-5 (NIV)
• Repent and believe - As John the Baptist preached - Matthew 3:1-2; Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3 (NIV) and Jesus stated - Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:15 (NIV)
• Accept it like a child - Mark 10:13-16 (NIV)
• Give precedence to it - Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Checking for Understanding:

• What is the Kingdom of God? What is the difference between the "Kingdom of God" and the "Kingdom of Heaven?"
• Define the "already" but "not yet" concept of the Kingdom of God.
• What must a person do to enter the Kingdom of God?

I hope that this condensed study format serves to motivate and inspire you to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited for our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle