This morning I am thinking about the kingdom of God. There are 75 places in the New Testament that use the words “Kingdom of God.” And as one looks over those verses, it becomes apparent that a clear definition of what is meant by these words is not all that easy to understand.
On the one hand, we see references to a “coming Kingdom.” giving us the idea that God’s Kingdom has not yet arrived but is a distant goal to set our sights on so that some day, when we die, we can enter into that Kingdom. I believe that is an accurate understanding of what is meant by the Kingdom of God.
But I also read passages that say, the “Kingdom of God has come near,” or “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” When we see the concept of the kingdom used in this way, we realize that the New Testament understanding is bigger than just another name for heaven.
I have heard people much more versed in scripture than myself explain the concept of the Kingdom of God being synonymous with the “will of God.’ I think this idea sheds some light on the subject as well.
But maybe one way we can understand the Kingdom of God is simply “getting it” – grasping, at least in a small way, the love and grace and plan of God through Jesus.
When I think of the times I glimpse the grandeur and mystery of God; or I see someone truly show the love of Christ to someone else; I think God might be saying, “The Kingdom of God has come near.”
Something to think about today.
Clay in the Hands 
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