THE KINGDOMS: kingdom of God vs. kingdom of heaven
In order to discern the differences in the meaning of the terms kingdom of God and kingdom of heaven, we will proceed to do a search in both the Old and New Testament, insofar as the phrases are used in Scripture. And we will do it in the same order as we have listed it, first the kingdom of God and then the kingdom of heaven. But be aware that I will leave no stone unturned for a complete and exhaustive view of the subject matter to lay to rest any doubt as to the biblical meaning of the phrases in question. It is lengthy so you may want to read it all or skip to the conclusions and comments and then return to the verses you may wish to look over specifically. May this be a great blessing to you.
What is the kingdom of God? What does the Bible teach in the OT?
First we will look at the verses in the Bible before we jump to determine the definition or descriptions given and we will use the maximum numbers of verses, exhaustively if possible, with the intent that we leave no possibility of coming up with the wrong conclusion. As a search engine for the KJV we go to BibleGateway and pull down all the verses in which the words exist (God or kingdom) together. The number of entries will exceed greatly the number of verses that actually contain the phrase but the work must be done if one wants to know the truths of Scripture. In most cases we will take part of the verse only if it is sufficient to give us the context and meaning of what is being said in it.
1 Sam 10:18 delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, God has delivered Israel times before
1 Sam 13:13 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. king Saul started as an annointed of the Lord, a just king but by self will and disobedience he lost that which was then bestowed on David: that from him will come a Davidic house, and a throne (regal/royalty), a kingdom (sphere of authority) and in perpetuity forever (in the annointed Messiah).
1 Kings 11:31 saith the Lord, the God of Israel, Behold, I will rend the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon, because Solomon's heart turned away from the Lord God his kingdom legacy will be divided by Jeroboam
1 Kings 18:10 He is not there; he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. Obadiah finding Elijah is to tell Ahab the king of the Prophets' whereabouts 2 kings 19:15 thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; Hezekiah during his prayer to the Lord God
2 kings 19:19 the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou art the Lord God, even thou only. A recognition that the Lord God alone is God
2 Chr 1:1 Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him, Blessings early on the throne of Solomon
2 Chr 2:12 that might build an house for the Lord, and an house for his kingdom. Prayer of Huram in thanksgiving for the Solomon temple
2 Chr 13:5 Ought ye not to know that the Lord God of Israel gave the kingdom over Israel to David for ever, even to him and to his sons by a covenant of salt? David received the blessing of having his heirs inherit kingdom over the world to his descendant, leaving a house (family), a throne (royalty, majesty), a kingdom (authority over the land) and at that forever in the person of the Son of God to rule over the entire world
2 Chr 20:6 And said, O Lord God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? Jehoshaphat's prayer to the Lord God
2 Chr 36:23 (Ezra 1:2) Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the Lord God of heaven given me Cyrus the king the annointed of God
Ps 45:6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Said of Messiah or seed root of Jesse
Ps 68:32 Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; Praise be to God
PrIs 13:19 And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah Babylon in Iraq will be destroyed in end times by the Medes (today's Kurds)
Is 37:16,20 thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; the Lord God alone has charge over all the kingdoms of the eartht
Dan 2:37 Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory. Daniel's words to Nebuchadnezzar that the Lord God has made his king of kings
Dan 2:44 And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. This alludes to to the Ancient of days ruling on earth for ever and defeating first all the earthly kingdoms
Dan 4:18 all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: Nebuchadnezzar recognizes that only the God of Daniel can give the interpretation
Dan 5:11 There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; the mother of Belshazzar reminds the king that Daniel's God can give him the interpretation of the writing on the wall
Dan 5:21 till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will. Belshazzar lost his kingdom, his life and the beauty of the kingdom of Babylonia fell into the hands of the Medes and the Persians
Dan 5:26 God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it.Bellshazzar lost his kingdom Bel
Dan 6:26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: Darius the Mede decrees the supremacy of the Lord God of Daniel
Amos 9:8 Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are upon the sinful kingdom, said of the children of Israel The kingdom of Israel had fallen into sinfulness like that of the heathen nations
Conclusions from the verses in the Old Testament on the kingdom of God: When Israel was attacked it was God who delivered her. King Saul could have been the king from whom the heir of Israel would have come had he not disobeyed God so that the priviledge of a house, a kingdom and a throne (majesty/royalty) for ever ruling was given to David. King Cyrus praised God who annointed him as victorious over all the kingdoms of the heathens. the Lord God has charge over all the kingdoms of the earth. Daniel made known to the king of Babylon that the Lord God made him the king in his times over all other kingdoms. Nebuchadnezzar acknowledge that only the Lord God was able to tell him his dream and called him God of gods and Lord of kings, and accepted his chastisement in boanthropy for 7 years when he gloried himself in the building up of Babylonia and did not credit God. And his descendant Belshazzar chose to defile the vessels brought from the temple of the Lord God he was deposed and lost his life as announced by the writting on the wall read to him by Daniel. And Darius the king of the Medes decreed that the Lord God of Daniel was the supreme God.
But more important of all is the signification of Daniel 2:44 which is repeated in Daniel 7:13, 14, 22 , 26, 27 and it speaks of the Ancient of Days, the Lord God, ruling man in an earthly kingdom that will be victorious over the kingdoms of the heathens and will last eternally. Note again, it is God ruling on earth, himself, and we know from Revelation that the Lord Jesus Christ will reign for a thousand years in the Millennial kingdom. Historically Israel would change God's theocratic kingdom via the Judges and asked Samuel the prophet for an earthly king of God. Israel thus had Saul as their first king but by these verses we see that God always had in mind to rule theocratically, from heaven and on earth and that is what these verses reveal. In the end times the Lord Jesus Christ will rule the world on earth.
What is the kingdom of heaven? Is it written of in the OT?
One thing that is evident right away is that in the Old Testament the expression 'kingdom of heaven' does not appear either, and the verses that mention God, heaven and kingdom are the same exactly as the ones just covered in the previous segment. The first time 'kingdom of heaven' appears is in Matthew 3:2, and it is mentioned in total in 32 verses, all found in the gospel of Matthew. Here therefore is the connection, and that is that this gospel specifically applies to the nation of Israel. The kingdom of heaven expression is not found in any other gospel nor in any other book or epistle and we do know that each gospel had a specific audience in mind and were not just incomplete and isolated biographical accounts of the life of Jesus Christ on earth.
From the study on the verse in the Old Testament we learned that God pretends to rule physically on this earth, by the Messiah of the house of Israel, and from the gospels we do know that Jesus presented himself to the rulers of the nation for reception as King and Messiah and was rejected. Let us look at that more closely by studying the verses on the kingdom of heaven that only Matthew records.
Matt 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. a call to turn from that which they now trust in; to turn their backs on that which they were banking on to be saved
Matt 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Jesus said that he was sent to the house of Israel so that he limited pretty much his message to Jews even if his intent was always to bring redemption to the Gentiles as well. His offering was that of the kingdom of heaven and given that later he would offer himself as King and Messiah and be rejected, the kingdom he is presenting is his rule on this earth.
Matt 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Chapters 5,6,7 in Matthew cover the Sermon on the Mount and the Lord is teaching his disciples the constrasting distinction between the salvation by works promoted by the Pharisees and salvation by faith as a gift from God that he is proclaiming. [Go to summaries and commentaries and read, 'Discerning the sayings of Jesus, the Sermon on the Mount'].
Matt 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven Coming to the kingdom of heaven involves pursuing righteousness and sufferning persecution
Matt 5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven Greatness in the kingdom of heaven involves doing and teaching the commands of God
Matt 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Because the Scribes and Pharisees taught and followed the traditions of the elders instead the very words of God, they could keep their laws and thought themselves righteous ones that deserved heaven by their merits. They were punctilious in their legalisms and religiosity but no one can earn heaven for it is a gift received. It was impossible to outdo these religious class.
Matt 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven The will of the Father is that those who are willing place their faith in Jesus Christ (John 6:40)
Matt 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom involves face to face relationships with the forefathers
Matt 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand To be at hand means to be around the corner, next in line of things to come
Matt 11:11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus Christ and thus the greatest of all OT prophets but was not a member of the body of Christ in that he was beheaded before Jesus' death and resurrection that ratified and brought in the New Covenant for a new and living way of fellowshipping with God. John saw and baptized Jesus and later doubted that he was Him, but the least in the kingdom would enter in without having seen or heard Jesus do miracles or proclaim the kingdom, by faith.
Matt 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force They were trying to earn their way into the kingdom by their works
Matt 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. By chapter 12 they had accused Jesus of doing his miracles by the power of the Devil and not of the Holy Spirit. Having thus rejected him then the Lord began to speak to these in parables while he explained to his disciples the meanings of the parables
Matt 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: The kingdom of heaven is about the Lord (sower) sowing seed (proclaiming his word, in the gospel message of 1 Pet 1:23-25) for salvation to those willing to receive it
Matt 13:31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: From the tiniest of beginnings a movement would come that will grow proportionally worldwide
Matt 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. The kingdom of heaven will have the right proportions of corruption and erroneous doctrines that in time all will be leavened and affected
Matt 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Israel has been the treasure and she is in view here
Matt 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: The birth of the church is in view as the pearl that the merchant sought for and bought with his own blood
Matt 13:47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: As a net casted will bring in all sorts of catch, so will in the kingdom of heaven many will try to enter that will be cast out as reprobates or unqualified (one enters God's way and by God's door or gate, the Lord Jesus Christ)
Matt 13:52 Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. In the kingdom of heaven there will be found things new and things old, that is New Testament and Old Testament fitted to one another
Matt 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. The keys are the keys of knowledge to allow people to enter the kingdom of heaven as is done with the preaching of the gospel. Peter open the gates to Jews, Samaritans and Gentiles. Binding and loosing refer to the power of the Spirit of God to combat the suprahuman forces of the devil in deliverance from the occult powers
Matt 18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? The ones that come willingly trusting and humbly as innocent children do
Matt 18:3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. To be converted is to turn in faith to Jesus Christ having turned away in repentance from that we before trusted in for salvation, and enter the kingdom of heaven
Matt 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven Entering into the kingdom of heaven's blessings requires a humble spirit, a spirit of submission to God
Matt 18:23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants The king is a type of the Father that invited all his servants to come to the feast in honor of his Son and they would not so that others were invited to come from all places found but no one was allowed to be/stay in the kingdom in the presence of majesty/royalty without the proper attire (the robe of righteousness)
Matt 19:12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.Paul made himself a eunuch (spiritually) in that he never married a wife so that he could serve God all his life without outside cares
Matt 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven There is no other way to enter the kingdom of God but as a little child in trust (faith)
Matt 19:23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. Riches was thought to be a sign of a person's good standing before God who had blessed him richly which is not the case. The rich depend on their riches, are hard pressed to follow God and for the money becomes a new god which they prefer
Matt 20:1 For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.The householder sought for those to bring to his vineyard for the harvest and agreed on the just reward which he bestows equally regardless of the time expended. No one can limit his right to be generous with whomever he wants
Matt 22:2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son This is a great clue for the kingdom of heaven is like a king that celebrated the marriage feast of his son indicating that the messianic kingdom is a time entirely of such feast to celebrate the wedding of the Lord to his Bride, the church
Matt 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. The scribes and Pharisees proclaimed a works-salvation way of coming to God and entering the kingdom of heaven by force and their false teachings shut the doors of the kingdom to those who followed them
Matt 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom This is a parable often spoken of and only found in the gospel of Matthew. The virgins left to seek the bridegroom and it is not said that they all had oil (the Holy Spirit) and they fell asleep. But at the sound of the call only five had oil even if it says that their lamps in the past had been lit, and of them only the five with the oil entered in. This is a clue for the remnant of Israel that believe the Lord God, that they must come to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ at his second coming (see Zech 12:10-14) in order to enter the kingdom of heaven for it is not possible to ignore the Messiah and enter in.
Matt 25:14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. Rewards are given commensurate to ability adjudicated to each and willingness to use those for the Lord
Rev 11:15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. Neither of these two verses in Revelation speak of the phrase 'the kingdom of heaven' but certainly follow the line established first in Daniel that the Lord Jesus Christ would be ruling on earth, the rule of God on an earthly theocratic kingdom, having defeated the kingdoms of this world
Rev 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. The theocratic kingdom is coming in the person of the Christ of God and it can not be any clearer than that.
As we have reviewed all these verses it is obvious that they are to be seen in the context of the entire book, in the context of theological truths revealed for the Bible is a unit in its design, all parts fit to perfection. Given that all these verses on the kingdom of heaven are found in the gospel of Matthew means that it has a predominant importance to the audience of that gospel: Israel, the Jews, even if all is for all, the application is notoriously directed to Israel. This kingdom was first announced to Israel at the coming of the Messiah for the first time. The ways of the kingdom of heaven were compared to the ways of the scribes and Pharisees in the Sermon on the Mount, and these ways can only be done or fulfill by a child of God with the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are told that Jesus Christ would baptize with the Holy Spirit (Matt 3:11) whom Jesus called the Conforter (John 14:26) that he would pray the Father the Conforter to be with us (John 14:16) for ever, and be in us (John 14:17). Jesus also promised that once the Conforter indwells us that the Father and he would too come to abide with us (John 14:23) having the whole Godhead in us. Jesus further taught us that he would send the Spirit himself from the Father (John 15:26) and baptize us with him (Acts 1:5) which he did outpour over his chuch (Acts 2:33) on the day of Pentecost. In turn the Holy Spirit baptizes each believer into the body of Christ at conversion (1 Cor 12:13).
The entrance into the kingdom of heaven is by faith and it is a physical kingdom for we will sit with the fathers (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) in the kingdom. Jesus offered the kingdom of heaven to the rulers saying that if they receive it was next to come, but they rejected him adjudicating his miracles to the power of the devil himself. The kingdom of heaven can not be earned, it is entered by faith and because the lack of faith of the rulers he spoke to them in parables. The kingdom parables depict the way into the kingdom and the ways of the kingdom. The way is by faith for it is the work of the Father that people believe in Jesus Christ (John 6:29) and it is the Fathers' will for Jesus that he keep all them that He gives him, and lose none. It is the will of the Father to give those who have willing hearts to come the Jesus the measure of (saving) faith (Rom 12:3) needed to believe in Jesus, and this faith unto salvation is given freely by his grace (Eph 2:8-10) for salvation is not of works. In addition it is the will of God that after that we believe we sanctify ourselves to the Lord Jesus (1 Thess 4:3) who will have all men to be saved (1 Tim 2:4).
The kingdom of heaven parables all say "is like", meaning similitude, likeness meaning that it is not the thing described but is like that being described, having similar characteristics and likenesses. It is entered by trusting the word (Christ Jesus) preached, having faith as a little child and it can not be bought with riches. And it involves spiritual power over the forces of the occult and the enemy in binding and loosing in order to deliver those trapped by the forces of darkness. Gentiles are also called to come into the kingdom even when the servants in his vineyard refuse to come to the celebration for the king's son. The feast for the son in the parable is the celebration of the marriage at the supper of the Lamb (Rev 19:7-10) that marries his Bride the church which is to be in the kingdom of heaven. Together with the Old Testament revelation of God ruling theocratically on the earth, by a root of Jesse, of the house of David, a King and Messiah, as promised to Israel in Scripture, where the celebration be held of the wedding feast of marriage to Jesus Christ the Lord in his coming kingdom (the Millennial kingdom),. The conclusion is that this is speaking of the physical rule of God on earth in a Theocracy. The kingdom of heaven is the rule of Jesus Christ physically in the world from the nation Israel, Zion the Mount of God (read Ezekiel 40-48 for the details of the kingdom rule). But not all will enter that kingdom, only those who are believers and are thus saved. Now let us look at 'the kingdom of God' in the New Testament to compare meanings.
The Kingdom of God in the New Testament
There are 76 entries that contain within the verse the word God or kingdom so that we will have to limit ourselves to the ones actually using the entire phrase. And where the verses repeat other verses already visited, no comment will be made alongside, having been previously explained.
Matt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. The kingdom of God is that which has foremost priority
Matt 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. The kingdom of God came at that time of his ministry in power over the power of darkness
Matt 19:24 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. Previously addressed
Matt 21:31 Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. The publicans and harlots see themselves for what they are and see the need they have of the mercy and grace of God and seek it humbly
Matt 21:43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. The rulers of Israel were to lose the priviledged position, for their fruit was rotten and given to a new nation, the church
Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, Preaching the good tidings to come, that he was bringing since for this he was sent to the world
Mark 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. The time had arrived (as Daniel prophesied he would come and be cut off), and the prophecy been fulfilled for the kingdom of God to arrive with him (Christ in you the hope of glory, Col 1:27)
Mark 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: (Addressed before)
Mark 4:26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; (Addressed before)
Mark 4:30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is not possible to compare it to anything that had come before for this is the special kingdom of Jesus' ministry
Mark 9:1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power. John, James and Peter saw the transfiguration of Jesus in glory with Elijah and Moses on the mount, as they discussed his death on the cross; they saw the power and the glory of God
Mark 9:47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: this is about being focused, first seeking the kingdom of God
Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. (Addressed before)
Mark 10:23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Mark 10:24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Mark 10:25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Mark 12:34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question. The scribe was commending the scriptures coming out of the Lord's mouth so that he was depending on the teachings of God.
Mark 14:25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God. Jesus Christ ushered in the kingdom of God and drank new wine at the cross (Matt 27:47-50) when he drank the vinegar (without gall, an anesthetic) from a sponge before he gave up the ghost (his spiritual part).
Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus. The resurrection of Christ and his apparitions is the evidence that he rose from the dead for he had been the sacrifice offered for the sins of all the world. His sacrifice had been found acceptable to God as a propitiation for sin so all the world could be saved if they are willing! Joseph had waited for this occasion to be free from sin.
Luke 4:43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. Jesus went to all the regions of Israel and many cities to give them the good news to come of the kingdom of God now being at hand.
Luke 6:20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 7:28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. (Addressed before)
Luke 8:1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, On the job training of the apostles as to the proclamation of the coming kingdom. Keep in mind the timing of the events, the timeline of his ministry to put perspective to the verse.
Luke 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. To the unwilling heart there is no obligation to explain that they do not want to believe. God can do this but we can not for we do not know the heart of man. Jesus knew their hearts of rejection and unbelief, for those who do not come to Jesus are the ones who are not willing (John 5:40) for they love darkness (John 3:17-20) and are already under condemnation.
Luke 9:2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. (Addressed before)
Luke 9:11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. He took not only our sins away but also our infirmities
Luke 9:27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. The transfiguration anticipated.
Luke 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God, The follower wished to return home till his aged father pass away but the answer is that the priority is to proclaim the kingdom of God to give others spiritual life.
Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. To look back is to desire or action to walk away from the Master, God in the flesh; they are unfit followers. Not that they are lost but need refitting for discipleship requires committment
Luke 10:9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. (Addressed before)
Luke 10:11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. When the gospel is preached the kingdom of God comes near (thus it is not a physical but a spiritual kingdom)
Luke 11:20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. The spiritual power to deliver from the chains and bands of darkness and its forces comes with the kingdom of God
Luke 12:31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Addressed before)
Luke 13:18 Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? (Addressed before)
Luke 13:20 And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? There is nothing, absolutely nothing to compare it to.
Luke 13:28 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out This augurs badly for those thrusted out, very badly indeed
Luke 13:29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. Why would the kingdom of God be expressed of as spiritual, a mystery and then say that in it we shall sit together with the forefathers? It is because one first needs to enter the spiritual kingdom of God or his rule in our hearts (our beings) in order to qualify to enter the kingdom of heaven or rule of heaven on earth theocratically by the Lord Jesus. It can be said that those who sit with the forefathers in the kingdom of heaven are in the kingdom of God for God is with them.
Luke 14:15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. It is a blessing being in the kingdom of God or God ruling in you, in your spirit (soul/spirit)
Luke 16:16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. (Addressed before)
Luke 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: The kingdom of God is not seen, it is not visible and can not be observed because it is spiritual and it is a mystery (Col 1:26, 27) at that! Read Colosians 1:13 that says of the Father: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: It would be right to ask where to we have been translated by the Father when we believed? Or better yet, who is with me that has brought the kingdom in me when I believed?
Luke 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Now the fog is disipating well and we are learning that Jesus before the cross said that the kingdom was now near to us and after the cross we have the indwelling Holy Spirit in us, as well as Christ in us, the Son and the Father abiding in us. He meant exaclty that he was saying!
Luke 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 18:17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.(Addressed before)
Luke 18:24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Luke 18:25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 18:29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, The rewards of the kingdom are manifold more in this present time and and in the life to come life everlasting
Luke 19:11 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He first had to die and resurrect to bring in the kingdom but had to ascend first to receive it (him, the Holy Spirit) to pour over his church at Pentecost and give gifts (spiritual gifts) to his own
Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. This chapter of Luke is eschatological and speaks of end times events so we must put it in historical context first. It is referencing the very end of the Tribulation for at his second coming there will be another outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28,29 Ez 39:29) over the remnant so that they will believe Jesus Christ is Messiah the King and Almighty God.
Luke 22:16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Spoken of at the last supper and is the companion verse to Mark 14:25 that he spoke of the wine and is addressed above, and at this time the reference is to food
Luke 22:18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come Ditto
Luke 23:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. We are born once of the flesh, of water, physically but at birth our spiritual part (soul/spirit) is unawares of the things of God and we must first be spiritually resurrected or reconected again to God. This is the first resurrection, spiritual resurrection of Revelation 20.
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God The one not spiritually resurrected is dead to God (separated) and never has a relationship to the Lord and thus can not enter the kingdom of God, which will happen if he/she is willing to come to him in faith.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: Jesus refreshed his teachings to his disciples before he ascended to heaven so that they would know the first importance of the kingdom of God in a person's life
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.The example is superb: first one believes, trusts Jesus as Saviour for the remission of sins and at that instant he baptizes us with the Holy Spirit, and then we proffess Christ publicly at our water baptism by immersion, a type that signifies that which happens in a person spiritually.
Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. In context it is not saying that we must go through tribulation, affliction and persecution till finally we reach the place and enter the kingdom of God. No, it means that as we hear the gospel and get convicted, our families and friends and other associates may object or oppose our conversion causing us more consternations and create obstacles and problems. My conviction led to my conversion in the middle of opposition, great opposition.
Acts 19:8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God Paul proclaimed the gospel of the kingdom of God
Acts 20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more His fellow soldiers and companions in the preaching of the gospel
Acts 28:23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. Paul gave scriptural evidence of the testimony in the Old Testament of the gospel of Christ
Acts 28:31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him. This is plainly the preaching of the gospel of salvation, saved from the power of darkness and placed into the kingdom of the
Son of God
Rom 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. It is not physical as food and drink but of the spirit
1 Cor 4:20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. Not in plain words of wisdom but in the power of the Holy Spirit
1 Cor 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Without gifted righteousness no one can enter the kingdom of God
1 Cor 6:10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (a con't from above)
1 Cor 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Not entered by inheritance (by blood)
Gal 5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. It is the unrighteous that practice such things; a believer may fall into sin but God will prod him out or chastise him
Eph 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Idolaters have other god(s)
Col 4:11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me. Paul spoke of those Jews who were preaching the gospel
1 Thess 2:12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory This is the calling of God of all peoples out of the world unto his kingdom for salvation
2 Thess 1:5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: These Thessalonians were rich in patience and faithfulness in persecution and thus were converts who had the gifted righteousness of God and thus are found worthy because of Him of the kingdom of God
Heb 1:8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom This verse is really about the physical kindgom where he scepter of his throne physically be, so that it is a verse of the kingdom of heaven and not the kingdom of God
James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? Another verse that only says kingdom but is addressing Jews awaiting the physical rule of Messiah on earth from the mountain of God in Zion. It is a verse about the kingdom of heaven an inheritance to believing Jews but not promised to the Gentile nations. The kingdom of God we learned above is not of blood, not of human inheritance.
Rev 1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. John speaks of the spiritual kingdom of God for he is a slave or a captive of Rome in the penitentiary at Patmos that can hardly be called the kingdom of God. For him to be at Patmos and simultaneously in the kingdom of God the later must be spiritual as we have uncovered
Rev 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. The kingdom that is coming after the tribulation week is the kingdom of heaven or the theocratic kingdom of God's rule on the earth, personally in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ
Rev 17:17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled This is the kingdom of the Beast, in the first phase when the one world religion rides the beast or world government. This verse has nothing to do with the kingdom of God nor with the kingdom of heaven, but of worldly powers that for a time rule the world.
Summary of the kingdom of God in the New Testament
What we are going to do is to look at all the verses approximately in the order given and look at the biblical sense of the verse and write a summary that we can compare to the earlier summary conclusion above and then uncover in a final conclusion what are the terms/phrases intended to describe.
The kingdom of God is that which has the greatest of priority in the life of a person. It was brought near with the first coming of Jesus Christ and entered at the ratification of the New Covenant and made fact at Pentecost, the birth of the church. It is a kingdom that came in power over the enemy and the dark forces and this power delivers those enslaved to them. It is entered by faith and even the most evil can come in repentance and faith. The proclamation of the kingdom was taken from Israel's rulers and given to the chuch body. There is nothing comparable to the kingdom and it was prophesied by Daniel and fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It was seen by Peter, John and James at the transfiguration at the mount in power and glory and the testimony of the Father. Jesus preached the kingdom of God in all regions of Israel and those of of a willing heart that were waiting received it when it came down. It was sealed in the Holy Spirit of God and Jesus taught it to his disciples. Being in the kingdom of God frees from all sins and Jesus too heals our infirmities and those not in the kingdom will see condemnation in the end. When the gospel is preached the kingdom of God comes near and when the person believes in Jesus the Lord then one enters the kingdom. But the kingdom of God also demands committment, not just being blessed for one is to proclaim it to others. The kingdom of God does not come with observation for it is not a visible kingdom, for the kingdom of God says the Scriptures is within you (a mystery, it is not visible for it is spiritual). The rewards for being in the kingdom is manyfold in this life and in the next life eternal.
The kingdom came in with Jesus Christ's ministry, it was established with legal beginnings at the resurrection, it was adjudicated to be proclaimed to the church at Pentecost when she was birthed and empowered by the Holy Spirit with whom all believers are baptized and the Spirit in turn places those in the body of Christ. Those willing to trust and depend fully on Jesus Christ as their saviour are given spiritual life by the baptism with the Holy Spirit (are born again, regenerated), the first resurrection from the dead (spiritually) and is signified by water baptism by immersion (it gives a figurative picture of what happens in believers spiritually). Paul preached this gospel of Christ being written in the pages of the Old Testament and is the gospel of salvation, that of gifted righteousness and not of blood, of inheritance. God calls all peoples of the world to his kingdom and as the Thessalonians experienced, those in the kingdom will suffer persecution and they were worthy to enter the kingdom being justified after that they were imputed the righteousness of God earned by faith by Jesus Christ (Phil 3:9). After all these the summary conclusion is that the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom, a mystery not revealed in the Old Testament, brought in by Jesus Christ as he ratified the New Covenant with his blood and the resurrection from the dead. It is the Father that from the power of darkness transfers us to the kingdom of his dear Son. The kingdom of God is essentially the rule of God on earth in the inner man.
Final Conclusion: the two kingdoms are portrayed as two separate truths that develop in some instances identically. These instances are such as the Sermon on the Mount, the sayings of Jesus in which he compares actually the error of the Phariseical Judaism of his day, based on the traditions of the rabbis (today's Talmudic Judaism) that called for a works-salvation, and the ways in his kingdom, by dependence on God in the power of the Holy Spirit. Another instance is that of the Kingdom Parables teachings, in which the two kingdoms are described in likeness in the gospels, particularly the Synoptic gospels, teaching the same message. To Israel was the promise made of a kingdom that would come from the Davidic line to rule the world in righteousness by Messiah the king and is a physical kingdom described in Ezekiel 40-48. But in order to enter this earthly theocratic kingdom of heaven, one must have the imputed righteousness of God, that is, first be in the spiritual kingdom of God so that we can enter into the theocratic kingdom of Messiah in the Millennium. Hence, the two phrases mean something distinctly different even though they develop along the same lines. End.
What is the kingdom of God? What does the Bible teach in the OT?
First we will look at the verses in the Bible before we jump to determine the definition or descriptions given and we will use the maximum numbers of verses, exhaustively if possible, with the intent that we leave no possibility of coming up with the wrong conclusion. As a search engine for the KJV we go to BibleGateway and pull down all the verses in which the words exist (God or kingdom) together. The number of entries will exceed greatly the number of verses that actually contain the phrase but the work must be done if one wants to know the truths of Scripture. In most cases we will take part of the verse only if it is sufficient to give us the context and meaning of what is being said in it.
1 Sam 10:18 delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, God has delivered Israel times before
1 Sam 13:13 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. king Saul started as an annointed of the Lord, a just king but by self will and disobedience he lost that which was then bestowed on David: that from him will come a Davidic house, and a throne (regal/royalty), a kingdom (sphere of authority) and in perpetuity forever (in the annointed Messiah).
1 Kings 11:31 saith the Lord, the God of Israel, Behold, I will rend the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon, because Solomon's heart turned away from the Lord God his kingdom legacy will be divided by Jeroboam
1 Kings 18:10 He is not there; he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not. Obadiah finding Elijah is to tell Ahab the king of the Prophets' whereabouts 2 kings 19:15 thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; Hezekiah during his prayer to the Lord God
2 kings 19:19 the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou art the Lord God, even thou only. A recognition that the Lord God alone is God
2 Chr 1:1 Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him, Blessings early on the throne of Solomon
2 Chr 2:12 that might build an house for the Lord, and an house for his kingdom. Prayer of Huram in thanksgiving for the Solomon temple
2 Chr 13:5 Ought ye not to know that the Lord God of Israel gave the kingdom over Israel to David for ever, even to him and to his sons by a covenant of salt? David received the blessing of having his heirs inherit kingdom over the world to his descendant, leaving a house (family), a throne (royalty, majesty), a kingdom (authority over the land) and at that forever in the person of the Son of God to rule over the entire world
2 Chr 20:6 And said, O Lord God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? Jehoshaphat's prayer to the Lord God
2 Chr 36:23 (Ezra 1:2) Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the Lord God of heaven given me Cyrus the king the annointed of God
Ps 45:6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Said of Messiah or seed root of Jesse
Ps 68:32 Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; Praise be to God
PrIs 13:19 And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah Babylon in Iraq will be destroyed in end times by the Medes (today's Kurds)
Is 37:16,20 thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; the Lord God alone has charge over all the kingdoms of the eartht
Dan 2:37 Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory. Daniel's words to Nebuchadnezzar that the Lord God has made his king of kings
Dan 2:44 And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. This alludes to to the Ancient of days ruling on earth for ever and defeating first all the earthly kingdoms
Dan 4:18 all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: Nebuchadnezzar recognizes that only the God of Daniel can give the interpretation
Dan 5:11 There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; the mother of Belshazzar reminds the king that Daniel's God can give him the interpretation of the writing on the wall
Dan 5:21 till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will. Belshazzar lost his kingdom, his life and the beauty of the kingdom of Babylonia fell into the hands of the Medes and the Persians
Dan 5:26 God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it.Bellshazzar lost his kingdom Bel
Dan 6:26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: Darius the Mede decrees the supremacy of the Lord God of Daniel
Amos 9:8 Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are upon the sinful kingdom, said of the children of Israel The kingdom of Israel had fallen into sinfulness like that of the heathen nations
Conclusions from the verses in the Old Testament on the kingdom of God: When Israel was attacked it was God who delivered her. King Saul could have been the king from whom the heir of Israel would have come had he not disobeyed God so that the priviledge of a house, a kingdom and a throne (majesty/royalty) for ever ruling was given to David. King Cyrus praised God who annointed him as victorious over all the kingdoms of the heathens. the Lord God has charge over all the kingdoms of the earth. Daniel made known to the king of Babylon that the Lord God made him the king in his times over all other kingdoms. Nebuchadnezzar acknowledge that only the Lord God was able to tell him his dream and called him God of gods and Lord of kings, and accepted his chastisement in boanthropy for 7 years when he gloried himself in the building up of Babylonia and did not credit God. And his descendant Belshazzar chose to defile the vessels brought from the temple of the Lord God he was deposed and lost his life as announced by the writting on the wall read to him by Daniel. And Darius the king of the Medes decreed that the Lord God of Daniel was the supreme God.
But more important of all is the signification of Daniel 2:44 which is repeated in Daniel 7:13, 14, 22 , 26, 27 and it speaks of the Ancient of Days, the Lord God, ruling man in an earthly kingdom that will be victorious over the kingdoms of the heathens and will last eternally. Note again, it is God ruling on earth, himself, and we know from Revelation that the Lord Jesus Christ will reign for a thousand years in the Millennial kingdom. Historically Israel would change God's theocratic kingdom via the Judges and asked Samuel the prophet for an earthly king of God. Israel thus had Saul as their first king but by these verses we see that God always had in mind to rule theocratically, from heaven and on earth and that is what these verses reveal. In the end times the Lord Jesus Christ will rule the world on earth.
What is the kingdom of heaven? Is it written of in the OT?
One thing that is evident right away is that in the Old Testament the expression 'kingdom of heaven' does not appear either, and the verses that mention God, heaven and kingdom are the same exactly as the ones just covered in the previous segment. The first time 'kingdom of heaven' appears is in Matthew 3:2, and it is mentioned in total in 32 verses, all found in the gospel of Matthew. Here therefore is the connection, and that is that this gospel specifically applies to the nation of Israel. The kingdom of heaven expression is not found in any other gospel nor in any other book or epistle and we do know that each gospel had a specific audience in mind and were not just incomplete and isolated biographical accounts of the life of Jesus Christ on earth.
From the study on the verse in the Old Testament we learned that God pretends to rule physically on this earth, by the Messiah of the house of Israel, and from the gospels we do know that Jesus presented himself to the rulers of the nation for reception as King and Messiah and was rejected. Let us look at that more closely by studying the verses on the kingdom of heaven that only Matthew records.
Matt 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. a call to turn from that which they now trust in; to turn their backs on that which they were banking on to be saved
Matt 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Jesus said that he was sent to the house of Israel so that he limited pretty much his message to Jews even if his intent was always to bring redemption to the Gentiles as well. His offering was that of the kingdom of heaven and given that later he would offer himself as King and Messiah and be rejected, the kingdom he is presenting is his rule on this earth.
Matt 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Chapters 5,6,7 in Matthew cover the Sermon on the Mount and the Lord is teaching his disciples the constrasting distinction between the salvation by works promoted by the Pharisees and salvation by faith as a gift from God that he is proclaiming. [Go to summaries and commentaries and read, 'Discerning the sayings of Jesus, the Sermon on the Mount'].
Matt 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven Coming to the kingdom of heaven involves pursuing righteousness and sufferning persecution
Matt 5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven Greatness in the kingdom of heaven involves doing and teaching the commands of God
Matt 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Because the Scribes and Pharisees taught and followed the traditions of the elders instead the very words of God, they could keep their laws and thought themselves righteous ones that deserved heaven by their merits. They were punctilious in their legalisms and religiosity but no one can earn heaven for it is a gift received. It was impossible to outdo these religious class.
Matt 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven The will of the Father is that those who are willing place their faith in Jesus Christ (John 6:40)
Matt 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom involves face to face relationships with the forefathers
Matt 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand To be at hand means to be around the corner, next in line of things to come
Matt 11:11 Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus Christ and thus the greatest of all OT prophets but was not a member of the body of Christ in that he was beheaded before Jesus' death and resurrection that ratified and brought in the New Covenant for a new and living way of fellowshipping with God. John saw and baptized Jesus and later doubted that he was Him, but the least in the kingdom would enter in without having seen or heard Jesus do miracles or proclaim the kingdom, by faith.
Matt 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force They were trying to earn their way into the kingdom by their works
Matt 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. By chapter 12 they had accused Jesus of doing his miracles by the power of the Devil and not of the Holy Spirit. Having thus rejected him then the Lord began to speak to these in parables while he explained to his disciples the meanings of the parables
Matt 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: The kingdom of heaven is about the Lord (sower) sowing seed (proclaiming his word, in the gospel message of 1 Pet 1:23-25) for salvation to those willing to receive it
Matt 13:31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: From the tiniest of beginnings a movement would come that will grow proportionally worldwide
Matt 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. The kingdom of heaven will have the right proportions of corruption and erroneous doctrines that in time all will be leavened and affected
Matt 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Israel has been the treasure and she is in view here
Matt 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: The birth of the church is in view as the pearl that the merchant sought for and bought with his own blood
Matt 13:47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: As a net casted will bring in all sorts of catch, so will in the kingdom of heaven many will try to enter that will be cast out as reprobates or unqualified (one enters God's way and by God's door or gate, the Lord Jesus Christ)
Matt 13:52 Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. In the kingdom of heaven there will be found things new and things old, that is New Testament and Old Testament fitted to one another
Matt 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. The keys are the keys of knowledge to allow people to enter the kingdom of heaven as is done with the preaching of the gospel. Peter open the gates to Jews, Samaritans and Gentiles. Binding and loosing refer to the power of the Spirit of God to combat the suprahuman forces of the devil in deliverance from the occult powers
Matt 18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? The ones that come willingly trusting and humbly as innocent children do
Matt 18:3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. To be converted is to turn in faith to Jesus Christ having turned away in repentance from that we before trusted in for salvation, and enter the kingdom of heaven
Matt 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven Entering into the kingdom of heaven's blessings requires a humble spirit, a spirit of submission to God
Matt 18:23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants The king is a type of the Father that invited all his servants to come to the feast in honor of his Son and they would not so that others were invited to come from all places found but no one was allowed to be/stay in the kingdom in the presence of majesty/royalty without the proper attire (the robe of righteousness)
Matt 19:12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.Paul made himself a eunuch (spiritually) in that he never married a wife so that he could serve God all his life without outside cares
Matt 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven There is no other way to enter the kingdom of God but as a little child in trust (faith)
Matt 19:23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. Riches was thought to be a sign of a person's good standing before God who had blessed him richly which is not the case. The rich depend on their riches, are hard pressed to follow God and for the money becomes a new god which they prefer
Matt 20:1 For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.The householder sought for those to bring to his vineyard for the harvest and agreed on the just reward which he bestows equally regardless of the time expended. No one can limit his right to be generous with whomever he wants
Matt 22:2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son This is a great clue for the kingdom of heaven is like a king that celebrated the marriage feast of his son indicating that the messianic kingdom is a time entirely of such feast to celebrate the wedding of the Lord to his Bride, the church
Matt 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. The scribes and Pharisees proclaimed a works-salvation way of coming to God and entering the kingdom of heaven by force and their false teachings shut the doors of the kingdom to those who followed them
Matt 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom This is a parable often spoken of and only found in the gospel of Matthew. The virgins left to seek the bridegroom and it is not said that they all had oil (the Holy Spirit) and they fell asleep. But at the sound of the call only five had oil even if it says that their lamps in the past had been lit, and of them only the five with the oil entered in. This is a clue for the remnant of Israel that believe the Lord God, that they must come to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ at his second coming (see Zech 12:10-14) in order to enter the kingdom of heaven for it is not possible to ignore the Messiah and enter in.
Matt 25:14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. Rewards are given commensurate to ability adjudicated to each and willingness to use those for the Lord
Rev 11:15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. Neither of these two verses in Revelation speak of the phrase 'the kingdom of heaven' but certainly follow the line established first in Daniel that the Lord Jesus Christ would be ruling on earth, the rule of God on an earthly theocratic kingdom, having defeated the kingdoms of this world
Rev 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. The theocratic kingdom is coming in the person of the Christ of God and it can not be any clearer than that.
As we have reviewed all these verses it is obvious that they are to be seen in the context of the entire book, in the context of theological truths revealed for the Bible is a unit in its design, all parts fit to perfection. Given that all these verses on the kingdom of heaven are found in the gospel of Matthew means that it has a predominant importance to the audience of that gospel: Israel, the Jews, even if all is for all, the application is notoriously directed to Israel. This kingdom was first announced to Israel at the coming of the Messiah for the first time. The ways of the kingdom of heaven were compared to the ways of the scribes and Pharisees in the Sermon on the Mount, and these ways can only be done or fulfill by a child of God with the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are told that Jesus Christ would baptize with the Holy Spirit (Matt 3:11) whom Jesus called the Conforter (John 14:26) that he would pray the Father the Conforter to be with us (John 14:16) for ever, and be in us (John 14:17). Jesus also promised that once the Conforter indwells us that the Father and he would too come to abide with us (John 14:23) having the whole Godhead in us. Jesus further taught us that he would send the Spirit himself from the Father (John 15:26) and baptize us with him (Acts 1:5) which he did outpour over his chuch (Acts 2:33) on the day of Pentecost. In turn the Holy Spirit baptizes each believer into the body of Christ at conversion (1 Cor 12:13).
The entrance into the kingdom of heaven is by faith and it is a physical kingdom for we will sit with the fathers (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) in the kingdom. Jesus offered the kingdom of heaven to the rulers saying that if they receive it was next to come, but they rejected him adjudicating his miracles to the power of the devil himself. The kingdom of heaven can not be earned, it is entered by faith and because the lack of faith of the rulers he spoke to them in parables. The kingdom parables depict the way into the kingdom and the ways of the kingdom. The way is by faith for it is the work of the Father that people believe in Jesus Christ (John 6:29) and it is the Fathers' will for Jesus that he keep all them that He gives him, and lose none. It is the will of the Father to give those who have willing hearts to come the Jesus the measure of (saving) faith (Rom 12:3) needed to believe in Jesus, and this faith unto salvation is given freely by his grace (Eph 2:8-10) for salvation is not of works. In addition it is the will of God that after that we believe we sanctify ourselves to the Lord Jesus (1 Thess 4:3) who will have all men to be saved (1 Tim 2:4).
The kingdom of heaven parables all say "is like", meaning similitude, likeness meaning that it is not the thing described but is like that being described, having similar characteristics and likenesses. It is entered by trusting the word (Christ Jesus) preached, having faith as a little child and it can not be bought with riches. And it involves spiritual power over the forces of the occult and the enemy in binding and loosing in order to deliver those trapped by the forces of darkness. Gentiles are also called to come into the kingdom even when the servants in his vineyard refuse to come to the celebration for the king's son. The feast for the son in the parable is the celebration of the marriage at the supper of the Lamb (Rev 19:7-10) that marries his Bride the church which is to be in the kingdom of heaven. Together with the Old Testament revelation of God ruling theocratically on the earth, by a root of Jesse, of the house of David, a King and Messiah, as promised to Israel in Scripture, where the celebration be held of the wedding feast of marriage to Jesus Christ the Lord in his coming kingdom (the Millennial kingdom),. The conclusion is that this is speaking of the physical rule of God on earth in a Theocracy. The kingdom of heaven is the rule of Jesus Christ physically in the world from the nation Israel, Zion the Mount of God (read Ezekiel 40-48 for the details of the kingdom rule). But not all will enter that kingdom, only those who are believers and are thus saved. Now let us look at 'the kingdom of God' in the New Testament to compare meanings.
The Kingdom of God in the New Testament
There are 76 entries that contain within the verse the word God or kingdom so that we will have to limit ourselves to the ones actually using the entire phrase. And where the verses repeat other verses already visited, no comment will be made alongside, having been previously explained.
Matt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. The kingdom of God is that which has foremost priority
Matt 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. The kingdom of God came at that time of his ministry in power over the power of darkness
Matt 19:24 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. Previously addressed
Matt 21:31 Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. The publicans and harlots see themselves for what they are and see the need they have of the mercy and grace of God and seek it humbly
Matt 21:43 Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. The rulers of Israel were to lose the priviledged position, for their fruit was rotten and given to a new nation, the church
Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, Preaching the good tidings to come, that he was bringing since for this he was sent to the world
Mark 1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. The time had arrived (as Daniel prophesied he would come and be cut off), and the prophecy been fulfilled for the kingdom of God to arrive with him (Christ in you the hope of glory, Col 1:27)
Mark 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: (Addressed before)
Mark 4:26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; (Addressed before)
Mark 4:30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is not possible to compare it to anything that had come before for this is the special kingdom of Jesus' ministry
Mark 9:1 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power. John, James and Peter saw the transfiguration of Jesus in glory with Elijah and Moses on the mount, as they discussed his death on the cross; they saw the power and the glory of God
Mark 9:47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: this is about being focused, first seeking the kingdom of God
Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. (Addressed before)
Mark 10:23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Mark 10:24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Mark 10:25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Mark 12:34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question. The scribe was commending the scriptures coming out of the Lord's mouth so that he was depending on the teachings of God.
Mark 14:25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God. Jesus Christ ushered in the kingdom of God and drank new wine at the cross (Matt 27:47-50) when he drank the vinegar (without gall, an anesthetic) from a sponge before he gave up the ghost (his spiritual part).
Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus. The resurrection of Christ and his apparitions is the evidence that he rose from the dead for he had been the sacrifice offered for the sins of all the world. His sacrifice had been found acceptable to God as a propitiation for sin so all the world could be saved if they are willing! Joseph had waited for this occasion to be free from sin.
Luke 4:43 And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. Jesus went to all the regions of Israel and many cities to give them the good news to come of the kingdom of God now being at hand.
Luke 6:20 And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 7:28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. (Addressed before)
Luke 8:1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, On the job training of the apostles as to the proclamation of the coming kingdom. Keep in mind the timing of the events, the timeline of his ministry to put perspective to the verse.
Luke 8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. To the unwilling heart there is no obligation to explain that they do not want to believe. God can do this but we can not for we do not know the heart of man. Jesus knew their hearts of rejection and unbelief, for those who do not come to Jesus are the ones who are not willing (John 5:40) for they love darkness (John 3:17-20) and are already under condemnation.
Luke 9:2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. (Addressed before)
Luke 9:11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. He took not only our sins away but also our infirmities
Luke 9:27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. The transfiguration anticipated.
Luke 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God, The follower wished to return home till his aged father pass away but the answer is that the priority is to proclaim the kingdom of God to give others spiritual life.
Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. To look back is to desire or action to walk away from the Master, God in the flesh; they are unfit followers. Not that they are lost but need refitting for discipleship requires committment
Luke 10:9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. (Addressed before)
Luke 10:11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. When the gospel is preached the kingdom of God comes near (thus it is not a physical but a spiritual kingdom)
Luke 11:20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. The spiritual power to deliver from the chains and bands of darkness and its forces comes with the kingdom of God
Luke 12:31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Addressed before)
Luke 13:18 Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? (Addressed before)
Luke 13:20 And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? There is nothing, absolutely nothing to compare it to.
Luke 13:28 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out This augurs badly for those thrusted out, very badly indeed
Luke 13:29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. Why would the kingdom of God be expressed of as spiritual, a mystery and then say that in it we shall sit together with the forefathers? It is because one first needs to enter the spiritual kingdom of God or his rule in our hearts (our beings) in order to qualify to enter the kingdom of heaven or rule of heaven on earth theocratically by the Lord Jesus. It can be said that those who sit with the forefathers in the kingdom of heaven are in the kingdom of God for God is with them.
Luke 14:15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. It is a blessing being in the kingdom of God or God ruling in you, in your spirit (soul/spirit)
Luke 16:16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. (Addressed before)
Luke 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: The kingdom of God is not seen, it is not visible and can not be observed because it is spiritual and it is a mystery (Col 1:26, 27) at that! Read Colosians 1:13 that says of the Father: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: It would be right to ask where to we have been translated by the Father when we believed? Or better yet, who is with me that has brought the kingdom in me when I believed?
Luke 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Now the fog is disipating well and we are learning that Jesus before the cross said that the kingdom was now near to us and after the cross we have the indwelling Holy Spirit in us, as well as Christ in us, the Son and the Father abiding in us. He meant exaclty that he was saying!
Luke 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 18:17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.(Addressed before)
Luke 18:24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (Addressed before)
Luke 18:25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
Luke 18:29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, The rewards of the kingdom are manifold more in this present time and and in the life to come life everlasting
Luke 19:11 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He first had to die and resurrect to bring in the kingdom but had to ascend first to receive it (him, the Holy Spirit) to pour over his church at Pentecost and give gifts (spiritual gifts) to his own
Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. This chapter of Luke is eschatological and speaks of end times events so we must put it in historical context first. It is referencing the very end of the Tribulation for at his second coming there will be another outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28,29 Ez 39:29) over the remnant so that they will believe Jesus Christ is Messiah the King and Almighty God.
Luke 22:16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Spoken of at the last supper and is the companion verse to Mark 14:25 that he spoke of the wine and is addressed above, and at this time the reference is to food
Luke 22:18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come Ditto
Luke 23:51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. (Addressed before)
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. We are born once of the flesh, of water, physically but at birth our spiritual part (soul/spirit) is unawares of the things of God and we must first be spiritually resurrected or reconected again to God. This is the first resurrection, spiritual resurrection of Revelation 20.
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God The one not spiritually resurrected is dead to God (separated) and never has a relationship to the Lord and thus can not enter the kingdom of God, which will happen if he/she is willing to come to him in faith.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: Jesus refreshed his teachings to his disciples before he ascended to heaven so that they would know the first importance of the kingdom of God in a person's life
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.The example is superb: first one believes, trusts Jesus as Saviour for the remission of sins and at that instant he baptizes us with the Holy Spirit, and then we proffess Christ publicly at our water baptism by immersion, a type that signifies that which happens in a person spiritually.
Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. In context it is not saying that we must go through tribulation, affliction and persecution till finally we reach the place and enter the kingdom of God. No, it means that as we hear the gospel and get convicted, our families and friends and other associates may object or oppose our conversion causing us more consternations and create obstacles and problems. My conviction led to my conversion in the middle of opposition, great opposition.
Acts 19:8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God Paul proclaimed the gospel of the kingdom of God
Acts 20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more His fellow soldiers and companions in the preaching of the gospel
Acts 28:23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. Paul gave scriptural evidence of the testimony in the Old Testament of the gospel of Christ
Acts 28:31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him. This is plainly the preaching of the gospel of salvation, saved from the power of darkness and placed into the kingdom of the
Son of God
Rom 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. It is not physical as food and drink but of the spirit
1 Cor 4:20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. Not in plain words of wisdom but in the power of the Holy Spirit
1 Cor 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Without gifted righteousness no one can enter the kingdom of God
1 Cor 6:10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (a con't from above)
1 Cor 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Not entered by inheritance (by blood)
Gal 5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. It is the unrighteous that practice such things; a believer may fall into sin but God will prod him out or chastise him
Eph 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Idolaters have other god(s)
Col 4:11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me. Paul spoke of those Jews who were preaching the gospel
1 Thess 2:12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory This is the calling of God of all peoples out of the world unto his kingdom for salvation
2 Thess 1:5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: These Thessalonians were rich in patience and faithfulness in persecution and thus were converts who had the gifted righteousness of God and thus are found worthy because of Him of the kingdom of God
Heb 1:8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom This verse is really about the physical kindgom where he scepter of his throne physically be, so that it is a verse of the kingdom of heaven and not the kingdom of God
James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? Another verse that only says kingdom but is addressing Jews awaiting the physical rule of Messiah on earth from the mountain of God in Zion. It is a verse about the kingdom of heaven an inheritance to believing Jews but not promised to the Gentile nations. The kingdom of God we learned above is not of blood, not of human inheritance.
Rev 1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. John speaks of the spiritual kingdom of God for he is a slave or a captive of Rome in the penitentiary at Patmos that can hardly be called the kingdom of God. For him to be at Patmos and simultaneously in the kingdom of God the later must be spiritual as we have uncovered
Rev 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. The kingdom that is coming after the tribulation week is the kingdom of heaven or the theocratic kingdom of God's rule on the earth, personally in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ
Rev 17:17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled This is the kingdom of the Beast, in the first phase when the one world religion rides the beast or world government. This verse has nothing to do with the kingdom of God nor with the kingdom of heaven, but of worldly powers that for a time rule the world.
Summary of the kingdom of God in the New Testament
What we are going to do is to look at all the verses approximately in the order given and look at the biblical sense of the verse and write a summary that we can compare to the earlier summary conclusion above and then uncover in a final conclusion what are the terms/phrases intended to describe.
The kingdom of God is that which has the greatest of priority in the life of a person. It was brought near with the first coming of Jesus Christ and entered at the ratification of the New Covenant and made fact at Pentecost, the birth of the church. It is a kingdom that came in power over the enemy and the dark forces and this power delivers those enslaved to them. It is entered by faith and even the most evil can come in repentance and faith. The proclamation of the kingdom was taken from Israel's rulers and given to the chuch body. There is nothing comparable to the kingdom and it was prophesied by Daniel and fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It was seen by Peter, John and James at the transfiguration at the mount in power and glory and the testimony of the Father. Jesus preached the kingdom of God in all regions of Israel and those of of a willing heart that were waiting received it when it came down. It was sealed in the Holy Spirit of God and Jesus taught it to his disciples. Being in the kingdom of God frees from all sins and Jesus too heals our infirmities and those not in the kingdom will see condemnation in the end. When the gospel is preached the kingdom of God comes near and when the person believes in Jesus the Lord then one enters the kingdom. But the kingdom of God also demands committment, not just being blessed for one is to proclaim it to others. The kingdom of God does not come with observation for it is not a visible kingdom, for the kingdom of God says the Scriptures is within you (a mystery, it is not visible for it is spiritual). The rewards for being in the kingdom is manyfold in this life and in the next life eternal.
The kingdom came in with Jesus Christ's ministry, it was established with legal beginnings at the resurrection, it was adjudicated to be proclaimed to the church at Pentecost when she was birthed and empowered by the Holy Spirit with whom all believers are baptized and the Spirit in turn places those in the body of Christ. Those willing to trust and depend fully on Jesus Christ as their saviour are given spiritual life by the baptism with the Holy Spirit (are born again, regenerated), the first resurrection from the dead (spiritually) and is signified by water baptism by immersion (it gives a figurative picture of what happens in believers spiritually). Paul preached this gospel of Christ being written in the pages of the Old Testament and is the gospel of salvation, that of gifted righteousness and not of blood, of inheritance. God calls all peoples of the world to his kingdom and as the Thessalonians experienced, those in the kingdom will suffer persecution and they were worthy to enter the kingdom being justified after that they were imputed the righteousness of God earned by faith by Jesus Christ (Phil 3:9). After all these the summary conclusion is that the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom, a mystery not revealed in the Old Testament, brought in by Jesus Christ as he ratified the New Covenant with his blood and the resurrection from the dead. It is the Father that from the power of darkness transfers us to the kingdom of his dear Son. The kingdom of God is essentially the rule of God on earth in the inner man.
Final Conclusion: the two kingdoms are portrayed as two separate truths that develop in some instances identically. These instances are such as the Sermon on the Mount, the sayings of Jesus in which he compares actually the error of the Phariseical Judaism of his day, based on the traditions of the rabbis (today's Talmudic Judaism) that called for a works-salvation, and the ways in his kingdom, by dependence on God in the power of the Holy Spirit. Another instance is that of the Kingdom Parables teachings, in which the two kingdoms are described in likeness in the gospels, particularly the Synoptic gospels, teaching the same message. To Israel was the promise made of a kingdom that would come from the Davidic line to rule the world in righteousness by Messiah the king and is a physical kingdom described in Ezekiel 40-48. But in order to enter this earthly theocratic kingdom of heaven, one must have the imputed righteousness of God, that is, first be in the spiritual kingdom of God so that we can enter into the theocratic kingdom of Messiah in the Millennium. Hence, the two phrases mean something distinctly different even though they develop along the same lines. End.