c. scott andreas

This is the third part of a series. Read the first and second parts.

Previously, I’d asked why it is important that we repent in the manner Christ called us to repent — such that our minds are utterly and completely transformed.

Jesus tells us that “the Kingdom of God is at hand.” Many interpret this to mean that the world will soon end — thus, people should repent now so they don’t wind up in hell later. Well, sure. But this is quite a reductionistic interpretation. Let’s take a closer look at this phrase.

First, “kingdom” used in the context of a first-century Jew did not refer to a physical place as we understand it. Instead, it indicated the right or authority to rule over a people. The word has much more to do with sovereignty and obedience than it does a spot on a cosmic map.

Our culture tells us that “heaven” is a place in the clouds where angels play harps and you get to do whatever you want — say, throw rocks at me for rambling. This was not what Jesus’ meant by heaven — nor did he mean a far-off place where we’ll one day go to worship God. The word for heaven, “ouranos” referred to the “order of things eternal and…perfect where God dwells.”

The “Kingdom of Heaven” refers to God’s authority to rule over the created universe.

Therefore, Jesus speaks to those who do not recognize God’s authority. His primary message is a call to obey the Lord as the good, wise, and just ruler of an eternal kingdom whose bounds are limitless.

What’s more — this Kingdom is “at hand.”

Check back on Friday for the (formal) conclusion of this series. Until then, leave a comment! What’s on your mind?

Greek references from Blue Letter Bible.