Checkpoint wrote: ↑Wed Aug 30, 2017 1:40 am
Some seem to think it is entirely future, while others give the impression they are always thinking of it as present, and to not be looking at the future in kingdom terms at all.
Jesus had much to say about the kingdom, including this:
Luke 16:
6 The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone is being zealously urged into it.
So, where do you stand as to whether it is present, future, or has both a present and a future aspect?
On what basis?
According to which scriptures?
The kingdom is BOTH present and future.
One must first understand that the kingdom is a spiritual entity, and not physical.
Here is a list of verses that show the kingdom is present NOW. Read them in context!
Colossians 1:13, Revelation 1:9, 1 Thessalonians 2:12, Hebrews 12:28, Revelation 1:6, 1 Corinthians 15:24-25, Luke 22:28-30, Luke 17:20-21
You can add Matthew 12:28 to the list I’ve given you. The Pharisees were accusing Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beellezbul. Jesus answered them, “But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
1 Corinthians 15:24-26 show that the kingdom is also future. Jesus is King NOW. He is reigning over His kingdom. At the end of time, He will deliver the kingdom to God the Father.
24 Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. 26 Thelast enemy that will be destroyed is death.