Chapter 2

Since the predominant theme of the whole Bible is the kingdom of God, it is extremely important for us to understand the proper meaning of the word “kingdom” and have a clear definition of the phrase “the kingdom of God.” Many Christian scholars believe that the English word “kingdom” is not a very good translation of the original word in Greek. The real meaning of the original word translated “kingdom” in our English Bible is ‘sovereign rule or reign.’ As a result, the word “kingdom of God” should be more accurately translated ‘the sovereign rule of God.’ We will of course continue using the word “kingdom,” but we must keep its deeper meaning in mind. What must be conveyed is the sovereignty of God. T. Austin Sparks has rightly attributed three aspects to the kingdom: 1) It is the sovereign rule of God. 2) It is according to an order of things which takes its character from God. 3) It is a realm where His order and nature freely operate and are expressed. We can enter this realm, but not apart from the other two aspects. So God’s kingdom is where God rules sovereignly, according to an order which expresses His character, and in a realm where everything operates according to His nature. Comments Write Comment  Name: Title: Comment: