Is it possible actually to “see” the Kingdom of God, as Jesus indicated in John 3.3 and elsewhere? Isn’t the Kingdom an “unseen” realm? Well, yes and no. Today’s reading from The Kingdom Turn is found on page 43:
“Jesus Christ, by His Word and Spirit in His people, is filling the world with Himself, with His righteousness, peace, and joy. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. Scientists can’t measure the spiritual power of Christ – they’re in the “dark” about such things – but anyone can certainly see its effects. The course of history is landmarked with example after example of good works accomplished by people who made the Kingdom turn and became citizens and ambassadors in an ever-advancing, unseen realm of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Spirit.
“And that Kingdom continues advancing to this day. Jesus Christ, Who holds the cosmos together by His Word of power, is advancing His unseen Kingdom – with all its glorious effects – on earth as it is in heaven, through all things, filling all things in all things to the praise of the glory of God.
“The Kingdom of God is above all things and in all things, under and around all things, within and unto and throughout all things. There is no place where the Kingdom is not, where Jesus does not rule in His resurrection power according to His eternal purposes and plan. And all who have made the Kingdom turn live their lives from a Kingdom perspective, in the fullness and glory and power of the everywhere-presence of Christ and His rule.”
For reflection or discussion
1. In what ways have you “seen” the Kingdom of God coming in and through your life?
2. Would you say that the Kingdom is coming visibly in your town, your community? Explain.
Jesus is filling your world with Himself. How’s that filling going? Where would you like to see more of Jesus in your life? In your part of His world? If we seek the Kingdom as the defining priority of our lives, we will be more likely to see Jesus filling our world and thus to see more of His Kingdom coming on earth as it is in heaven. Share today’s podcast with a friend, then get together to discuss it. Your copy of The Kingdom Turn is waiting for you in The Ailbe Bookstore.
T. M. Moore
