“Kingdom”

¹⁰ ‘Your kingdom come.

More Thoughts from The Lord’s Prayer, Matthew 6:9-13.

The second petition that Jesus taught us to pray is “Your kingdom come.” Today, we will focus on the word “kingdom.” In our next “thoughts” we will study the word “come.”

God is both sovereign king and Father. The kingship and fatherhood of God are closely related ideas. The kingdom of God refers to God’s rule and reign. He relates to us as our heavenly Father.  However, we can only enjoy His fatherhood fully as members of the kingdom.

God’s rule means the ultimate end of Satan’s rule. Although Satan has been defeated, he still rules over many in this age. The petition, then, is for God to act by setting up his rule. Many blessings come when God is allowed full sway in our lives.

During this present age, the church is the expression of the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God creates the church. Through faith in Christ, we become members of that kingdom. Also, the Holy Spirit makes the kingdom of God a reality in our lives. The Holy Spirit bridges heaven and earth.

Between the resurrection and ascension of Christ, His message had to do with the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). Following His example, we teach and preach about God’s kingdom. During this age, people have a choice as to whether or not they will follow God. When we pray, let us pray that God’s rule over the earth will be widely accepted. Our God gives us a choice.

George M. Flattery, Ed.D., is the founder of Global University and Network211.