what is GOD’s kingdom?...

we are looking at matthew 6 starting in verse 9 (niv) where JESUS said, this, then, is how you should pray: “our FATHER in heaven, hallowed be YOUr name…”  we have looked at the first three phrased and now we are ready for the first part of verse 10 (niv) where HE says, YOUr kingdom come…

now this may be the most misunderstood phrase in this what is known as the LORD’s prayer.  what does it mean, YOUr kingdom come?  what in the world does that mean, what is GOD’s kingdom?

well, GOD’s kingdom is HIS plan for history.  it is the rule and reign of GOD in the world.  it’s all that HE wants to do.  all HIS purposes are accomplished in the kingdom of GOD.

so where is the kingdom of GOD? 

it is wherever JESUS is allowed to be KING. 

since JESUS is KING in heaven right now the kingdom of GOD is in heaven.  one day when CHRIST comes back on earth, the kingdom of GOD will be on earth.  and JESUS says when i’m KING in your heart, the kingdom of GOD is within you.  so the kingdom of GOD is wherever JESUS is allowed to be KING.

actually the second phrase here in verse 10 (niv), YOUr will be done explains the first phrase, YOUr kingdom come.  GOD’s kingdom is wherever GOD’s will is done.  so if GOD’s will is being done in your life, that’s where the kingdom of GOD is.  it’s inside you. 

but before we can look at these two phrases please note, you have to settle one thing.  GOD is GOD and you’re not. 

i know that’s a little simple but we forget it very easily.  GOD is GOD and you’re not.  you cannot pray this prayer and you cannot be at peace until you accept that fact.

if you’re ever going to have peace in your heart in spite of circumstances, in spite of problems, in spite of conflict you’ve got to learn that GOD is GOD and you’re not.  and when you learn that then you’re ready to pray this prayer of surrender.

just a thought from the front porch…