Kingdom living according to the bible is about loving God and loving others. Loving god is defined as obeying his commandments. Loving others is shown in practical ways, like sharing your faith, praying for those in need, and caring for people.
Kingdom living is a topic that has been debated by many over the years. However, there are some common themes in scripture that can help us understand what we should be doing as kingdom citizens.
The first thing we need to understand is that God’s kingdom is not limited by time or space. We can’t say that God’s kingdom will be here on earth only after Jesus returns because it’s already here! The Bible says “the kingdom of God is within you.” (Luke 17:21) It also says “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18) The Lord has given us great authority over His creation; we just need to learn how to use it!
The second thing we need to understand about Kingdom living is that it’s a process—it doesn’t happen overnight! When Jesus said “Repent,” He didn’t mean for us to immediately stop our bad habits and start doing good ones instead. Repentance means changing how we think so that it aligns with God’s will for our lives.
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What is kingdom living according to the bible
Introduction
The Kingdom of God is the realm in which God rules, representing His sovereignty and authority. This kingdom is both present and future. It has come in part through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Luke 17:20-21; John 18:36). The phrase “Kingdom of Heaven” is used to describe the same concept—that God contains complete power over all things and that He reigns forever and ever.
Intro
What Is Kingdom Living?
The kingdom of heaven is a spiritual kingdom, and it is a kingdom of love, peace, righteousness and joy. It is not a physical kingdom that can be graphed out on earth like the Roman Empire or any other worldly kingdom that came to an end many centuries ago. The Bible tells us in Matthew 13:24-30 that the Kingdom of Heaven doesn’t come with observation or even with knowledge; rather it comes in its own time as it pleases God (see also Luke 13:18-21).
It’s important to understand what exactly Jesus was referring to when He spoke about the Kingdom of Heaven because there are so many people who claim they want to live in His Kingdom but don’t understand what it means. When we pray for our nation or any other place where we live on earth and ask God’s will be done on earth as well as in heaven, we’re asking for Him to help us live according to His plan for all humanity.
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Characteristics of the Kingdom of god
The kingdom of God is a place of joy.
The kingdom of God is a place of peace.
The kingdom of God is a place of righteousness.
The kingdom of God is a place where justice reigns and all people are treated fairly, no matter their status or occupation within society.
The kingdom of God is also a place that gives freedom to those who live in it: “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). In other words, when we accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord, we are set free from sin’s bondage and oppression—and we experience real freedom!
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The Kingdom Of Heaven In Matthew 13
The kingdom of heaven is a phrase used in several passages in the Gospels to distinguish God’s reign from human kingdoms. It represents a new reality that God has created and has given to those who believe in him. This “kingdom” is not an earthly throne but rather encompasses all things spiritual and eternal, which are eternal truths even though they do not yet exist on earth.
The kingdom of heaven is the reign of God in the hearts of Christians, especially Jesus’ disciples, who have been chosen by God for salvation through faith (Ephesians 1:4). The Bible states that those who are part of his people belong here (1 Peter 2:9-10). The rest of humanity, however, still remains under Satan’s control until they repent and accept Jesus into their hearts as well as obey him (John 3:5-7).
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The Bible has many verses that describe the kingdom of God and what it is like.
God’s kingdom is not of this world, but it is within you. The Bible says that the kingdom of God “is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). The apostle Paul wrote to his disciple Timothy that God “will give us everything we need to live a good life here on earth while we are waiting for our new bodies and homes with him in heaven” (2 Timothy 4:7).
The Bible teaches us that we should not seek to be rich or important in this world. Instead, we should seek out Jesus Christ as Lord of our lives so that he can guide us and strengthen us on our pathway through life. People who are part of the Kingdom will recognize each other because they share common values such as service to others rather than self-interest—and they all love each other! This love is something everyone needs but many people do not experience because their hearts are hardened by sin or because all but one religion has been rejected by them previously (Revelation 3:9).
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The kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven are often used interchangeably throughout the Bible.
The kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven are often used interchangeably throughout the Bible. The kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom, while the kingdom of heaven is a physical one.
The belief in this physical dimension comes from Matthew 4:17 where Jesus calls his disciples “fishers of men” and commands them to go out into all nations to teach them about God’s will. You can read more about this distinction by searching for “kingdom” in your favorite Bible app or checking out its definition in this article here: https://www.gotquestions.org/kingdom-of-heaven-and-kingdom-of-God-.html
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“The kingdom of heaven” is a phrase used in several passages in the Gospels to distinguish God’s reign from human kingdoms.
The phrase “kingdom of heaven” is used in several passages in the Gospels to distinguish God’s reign from human kingdoms. It does not refer to a physical place, but rather a spiritual one. This kingdom is found within us and accessible through Jesus.
The Kingdom of Heaven is not something that can be seen with your eyes or felt with your hands; it is not something you can buy, sell or possess. The Kingdom of Heaven exists within you when you acknowledge that you are part of God’s plan for humanity and surrender yourself completely to His will—when He becomes the center of your life!
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Conclusion
The kingdom of God is not a physical place. It is the realm of the soul where one’s spirit is ruled by God. The focus of the kingdom is on being connected with God and following his will instead of chasing after worldly possessions or desires that lead to sin.
benefits of the kingdom of god
A Worry-Free Life
With so many things happening around us, it almost seems impossible for one not to worry. But the truth is worrying never takes our problems away.
The devil is fond of instilling fear in us to keep on worrying instead of trusting God. Jesus said that we should not worry about tomorrow because today has its own fair share of problems. God has promised to never leave us nor forsake us in Hebrews 13:5-6.
We have also been given a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, not the spirit of fear. So we should live boldly knowing that the Holy Spirit is there to help us in our time of need.
The more you focus on your problems, the more you worry about them. Choose to cast all your cares unto the Lord and to focus on God and his Kingdom. When anxiety fills your heart, turn to God in prayer and declare his promises over that situation.
Seeking the Kingdom of God means relying on God’s word and the finished works of Jesus at the Cross.
It Brings Peace
When we seek the Kingdom of God first, the peace of God rules our hearts. This is because when we give our lives to Christ, we realize that we have been justified. And made righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. It is not through our own doing it is by grace.
But how is the peace of God beneficial to us?
Well, have you ever seen someone who is going through a lot but they are so peaceful? Maybe you even went to encourage them, but instead, they’re the ones who encouraged you?
Instead of whining and complaining about their situation, they praised and worshipped God for his faithfulness?
It is not that the situation had changed. It’s just that they had the peace of God in their hearts.
Well, that is what the peace of God does to us even when we are in the midst of the fire. Knowing that God is for you causes peace in your heart that nothing can take away from you.
When we seek the Kingdom of God, we not only learn about His peace. But we also develop that peace in our hearts.
Brings Rest
Resting after a long day of work is something we look forward to. It feels good to sit, relax and enjoy some peace and quiet. But to be honest, it is becoming hard for us as human beings to rest. There’s a lot of noise around us.
We are also told that the children of Israel never entered the rest of God. Even though that is what God wanted for them. Instead of trusting God and believing in His promises, the children of Israel tried to do things their way. They spent most of the time murmuring and complaining.
Seeking first the Kingdom of God enables you to understand what entering God’s rest is. It allows you to come to a place where you realize that it is only God that is your provider.
Our heavenly Father wants us to believe that whatever He has promised us is true. And He will bring it to pass. Learn to focus on God and see him as your provider. The more you do this, the more you enter into his rest. (Hebrews 4:5-10)
Seeking the Kingdom of God first brings Joy
In the presence of God, there is fullness of joy (Psalms 16:11). Since seeking the Kingdom of God means being in His presence, we find joy as we do it. Now understand that joy is not the same as happiness.
Happiness is based on circumstances, while joy is a fruit of the spirit. No one can take your joy away unless you allow them to. But anything can take away your happiness because circumstances tend to change.
You can receive good news and be very happy, but someone may bring you bad news, and you become sad.
A person that is full of joy can remain joyful irrespective of what is happening around them. It doesn’t mean that they are indifferent to what is happening around them. It just means that the joy of the Lord is their strength.
An excellent example of someone who remained joyful even in dire circumstances is Paul. He learned how to rejoice in the Lord no matter what was happening to him.
We will understand the Justice of God
The things of God are foolishness to those that are perishing. To be completely honest, it is hard to understand God’s justice with our human mind. But when we seek God and his righteousness, we come to a place where we understand justice. Proverbs 28:5
Understanding the justice of God will enable us to hate evil because God hates injustice. We shall also be intentional about doing what is right because we want to please our heavenly Father.
God will grant us our Prayers
God’s ears are open to the prayers of His children (1Peter 3:12). Those who seek Him day and night. Not just that, He is ready and willing to grant them the desires of their hearts.
The Bible says that you being evil, give good gifts to your children, how much more your heavenly Father?
When we diligently seek God, He comes through for us by answering our prayers.
God will Strengthen Us
The truth is we have the divine strength to handle the challenges that come our way. Trying to address the issues of life in our own strength always leaves us feeling discouraged and worn out. We need God’s help.
Now, do you know that God is looking for people to strengthen?
But He doesn’t want to strengthen just anyone. If He did that, the world would be in a bigger mess than it already is. He would have to strengthen the wicked too.
God is looking for His children, those who seek Him day and night so that He can strengthen them (2 Chronicles 16:9). When you seek His Kingdom first, you will be strengthened in your inner being. It doesn’t mean that you will never break down again. But even when that happens, you will rise up and fight until you win the battle.
God will Deliver you from your Fears
The enemy uses fear as a strategy to defeat us. He knows that we need faith to win the battles of life. So he fights back by bringing fear in our hearts so that we can doubt the word of God.
At times Satan is so sleek you may not know that you’re actually walking in fear. Seeking the Kingdom of God will cause you to understand what it means to walk by faith. The Holy Spirit will also reveal to you the different kinds of fear rooted in your heart. He’ll also help you to deal with those fears by leading you to the truth.
The Psalmist says in Psalm 34:4 that God answered him and delivered him from his fear. But this happened when he sought the Lord. If you battle with fear, then do what the Psalmist did. Seek the Lord. He will not only answer your prayer, but He will also deliver you from your worries.
Seeking the Kingdom of God will Cause Him to Deliver you from your enemies
Although Jesus died and set us free from the enemy’s control, Satan still tries to control our lives. If he cannot stop us from going to heaven, he will try to kill our faith. And destroy our lives so that we don’t accomplish the purposes of God in this world.
Now, we cannot defeat the enemy in our own strength. We need God’s help, or we shall end up being like Eve. Instead of quoting the word of God just as He had said, she added her own words to God’s command. The enemy is very cunning, and he only needs a small loophole to get to us.
When you seek the Kingdom of God, he delivers you from the attacks of the enemy. How? God will show you the right scripture to stand on as you resist the enemy. He will also give His angels charge over you to guard you in all your ways. God will deliver you from the traps that the enemy has set before you.
You will Find Contentment
Ever realized that despite us having so many options, many people in the world today are dissatisfied. It’s almost like nothing brings contentment to our hearts anymore.
We complain a lot and are always on the lookout for the next best thing to bring us contentment.
At times we lie to ourselves that we shall be happy when something happens. Not realizing that we shall still have a void in our hearts even when we get that thing. Contentment does not come from material things or the pleasures of this world. It comes from the Lord.
As created beings, we are always in need of a savior. So when we receive Jesus Christ and build an intimate relationship with him, we find fulfillment in our hearts.
Sad to say, but so many people are dead. It may not seem so when you look at them outwardly. But they’re dead because they decided to give up and just go with the flow.
Others are dead because they have rejected Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Their bodies may look good, and they may seem to have the best life. But the inner man or spirit is dead.
It’s important to seek God. He promises that when we do that, we will live (Amos 5:4). Now there’s more to living than just being successful career-wise, financially, and relationally. Living means being spiritually alive and living in accordance with the purpose that God has for you.
You will Lack no Good Thing
Ever told God that if He gives you something, you’ll be faithful to Him? Or have you ever fasted and prayed for a very long time trying to coarse God to provide you with something?
And then He did not give you that thing, and you were angry for some time. But after a while, you went back to him. You told Him, “thank you, God, for not giving me that thing. I did not need it”.
Well, just because something looks good or the world calls something good does not mean it is. In Psalm 34:10, we are told that those who seek God will lack no good thing. This does not mean that you’ll have everything that you want. It means that God will give you the things that you actually need.
Seeking the Kingdom of God will save you the trouble of acquiring so many things that you do not need. He will direct your path and show you the way that you should go. And this will help you to make the right decisions in life. Which in turn will cause you not to lack any good thing.
Discernment and Understanding
As we have already seen in the point above, not every good thing is actually good. It may be suitable for someone else, but it may not be for you. We also need to always remember that the enemy acts like the angel of light.
We need the gift of discernment to know if something is from God. Or if it is from the enemy. So how do we get the gift of discernment? By seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.
We shall become spiritually alert, grounded in the word. It will also enable us to know when it’s God speaking to us. Or whether it is the enemy no matter how he comes at us.
Seeking the Kingdom of God is for our own good. When we give our lives to Christ, we become part of the Kingdom of God. But we need to be active members of this Kingdom by seeking it first.
The enemy is not happy when we give our lives to Christ. So he’ll do anything possible to cause distractions so that we can seek other things but the Kingdom of God.
The danger in putting other things first is that we miss the privileges God gives to his Kingdom children.
These privileges or benefits include rest, peace, strength, worry-free life, answered prayers, deliverance from fear, contentment, discernment, and life.
signs of the kingdom of god
Back in the day, while doing research for my Master’s thesis on the Kingdom of God, I discovered a document that has become a significant part of my understanding about the “signs” that can help us recognize the active and present reality of God’s Kingdom in our lives, churches, and ministries today. For me it has become a kind of measure or means of evaluating whether or not we are proclaiming and advancing the Kingdom of God as Jesus intended us to do.
I was especially impressed with the process of how this document came into being. Rather than the work of a single author, this paper was the result of an ecumenical gathering of Christ-centered leaders, pastors, and theologians from around the world. Their purpose was to come to a consensus regarding what it means to fulfill the Great Commission. As evangelical leaders from all over the world their goal was to come together to seek God, study the Scriptures, and agree on a common understanding and a plan for global evangelization. Specifically, they sought to answer the question, “what does it mean to take the Gospel of the Kingdom into all the world?”
As they gathered together, prayed and studied the Scriptures they came to a consensus regarding the “signs” or indicators that give evidence of God’s Kingdom advancing and being proclaimed in the world today. The seven “signs” summarized below are the result of their gathering and together form a summary of key components to give us a clearer picture of what the New Testament means by proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God.
- Jesus in the midst of His people (Mt. 18:20)
- Preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom (especially to the poor) (Lk. 4:18,19)
- Casting out demons (Lk. 11:20)
- Healing and nature miracles (Jo. 5; Mk. 4:35-41)
- Conversion and new birth (John 3:3)
- People manifesting the fruit of the Spirit (Acts 2:42-47; Gal. 5:22-26)
- Suffering and persecution (Mt. 10; Jo. 15:20)
My intention for including this list here is to suggest that we allow these signs to serve as a kind of “checklist” by which we can measure, to some degree, our effectiveness in the ministry of proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God. First it should be said that “signs” are simply indicators that point to a future or present reality.
In other words they tell us something about what is or what is still to come. Even the signs we encounter in everyday life serve this purpose as well. When we drive down the freeway and see an exit sign it may indicate that we’ve arrived at our destination. On the other hand it may simply indicate the path to a destination still to come. In this sense, one sign represents “the now” (present), while the other represents “the not yet” (future). Other signs may serve to warn, to identify, or to announce something. In the same way, so do the signs of the kingdom.
For example, one of the signs of the Kingdom of God evident in Jesus’ ministry is healing. When Jesus or those who follow him heal the sick it is a sign or evidence that God’s kingdom is breaking into the “now” to change a person’s present condition or the natural order of things. The reality of God’s healing power in the future kingdom which we will enjoy forever and in completeness has become a present reality here on earth for the one who receives it. A person’s healing then is a sign that points to a reality that will only be fully completed in the future kingdom of heaven. At the same time, when people are healed in Jesus’ name these “signs” announce that the kingdom of God is real and active here and now. We can see from the Scriptures that these signs often form a basis for faith and verify the power of the Gospel and that its message really is good news!
It seems to me that a large majority of the Church associates the proclamation of the Gospel primarily with conversion and new birth. As we can see from this list, being “born again” is only one sign of the kingdom. Nevertheless, entrance into the kingdom of God is an essential first step and a fundamental part of our commission to carry the Gospel to all the world.
While most of the Church would emphasize that leading others to Christ is the primary task of proclaiming the good news, Jesus’ ministry and the activity of those who followed Him suggest a broader view. In fact, the clearest “sign” of God’s Kingdom breaking into our present world is reflected in a statement Jesus made regarding casting out demons. He said, “ If by the finger of God I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Lk. 11:20). By this Jesus was indicating that God’s kingly power and authority was breaking in to the present order to overthrow the work of Satan in order to restore things as God intended them to be—here “on earth, as it is in heaven.” This then was and is a sign of God’s Kingdom at work and an essential part of the ministry Jesus had and the commission He later gave his disciples to fulfill.