The Kingdom of Heaven: Unveiling the Mystery

[emekrus]

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”—Matthew 4:17

The Kingdom of heaven is the same as the Kingdom of God. As we begin to unveil the mystery of the Kingdom of God, it is very necessary for us to understand the term, ‘kingdom’. A kingdom is a particular place with a ruling King. Hence, the Kingdom of God (or heaven) is a realm that is ruled by God…

To this end, every individual whose life and actions are dictated or ruled by God (in their hearts or spirit) are in the kingdom of God (Luke 17:20-21). When Jesus said, repent for the kingdom of God is at hand, he meant it in two broad sense.

If you check your dictionary, the phrase ‘at hand’ means: to be close- in terms of place (location) or in terms of time. Jesus meant ‘at hand’ in the two sense of it. He meant we should repent, because the kingdom of God is close to us in terms of location and in terms of time.

The locational closeness is the one we enter immediately we accept him. Then the time closeness, is the one we enter, when we’re resurrected or when we change this our mortal body for the spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:54), in the great beyond.

Hence, the kingdom of God or heaven is in two dimensions. One already here on earth (The locational-by faith), and the other in the great beyond- eternity in the New Jerusalem (after death, resurrection or transfiguration)—Mark 10: 30; Revelation 21:1-7.

Now from my own personal revelation (call it understanding), if you are not already enjoying the benefits of the kingdom of heaven here on earth, the chances are, you may not make it to the great beyond. Contrary to the teachings of the ‘evangelicals’, who believe that it’s only in the great beyond, we can enjoy the benefits of the Kingdom of God…

What Then Are The Features Of The Kingdom Of God or Heaven?

Any Christian who practically lives in the reality of the following supernatural, Christian consciousness, is already in the Kingdom of God. In other words, he is already living in the reality of heaven on earth.
Here are the features of the kingdom of God or Heaven:

1. Righteousness—“For the Kingdom of God is not in meat and drink; but RIGHTEOUSNESS, and peace, and joy” Romans 14:17.
   When a Christian lives a lifestyle of holiness, that is, living above sin, then he is in the kingdom of God. On the other hand, if an individual is living freely in sin, he is not in the kingdom of God yet.
2. Peace and Joy—from the above scripture (Rom 14: 17): Another glaring feature of the Kingdom of God, is peace and joy. You know, the type of peace, the scripture says, passes all human understanding (Philippians 4:7).
   
   And the Lord Jesus said; ‘my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you’. And you can have this kind of peace and joy, even if you do not have a dime on you. Even if the whole world is collapsing. So if you do not have this holy peace and joy in your heart, check it- you may not be in, or may have moved out of the Kingdom.
3. The Kingdom of God (or heaven) is in Power—another great and important feature of the kingdom of God is the demonstration of the power of God. The kingdom of God cannot be in you (Lk 17:20-21), without the evidence of supernatural manifestations.
   
   You know, Jesus said; ‘these signs shall follow them that believe…’ (Mark 16:15-19). Then again, he said in Luke 11: 20; “If I cast devils by the finger of God, then the Kingdom of God is come upon you”. Hence, the proof of the Kingdom, is in demonstration of the Power of the world to come—Hebrews 6:5.
   

You can’t be in the kingdom of God and lack supernatural power. You can’t be in the kingdom truly, and still be oppressed by the devil and his agents.


If all these features outlined here, are not realities in your life, the chances are, you’re not yet in the Kingdom of God, or maybe you must have derailed. And you need to repent of your sins (including unbelief) and accept Jesus into your heart as your Lord and personal Savior…

To do that, say out loud; Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins. I accept you today, as my Lord and personal savior. Wash me with your precious blood. Write my name in the Lamb’s book of Life. Thank you Father for saving me, in Jesus Name!

Congrats! You’re now a new creature, old things have passed away, and all things have become new. You’re now a recognized member of the Kingdom of God and heaven.

It is my prayer, that the LORD, keep you in his kingdom till the time of his coming, in Jesus Matchless Name!

Remain Blessed!

 

[DPMartin]

Nice posting, if I may add I’ve always seen "the kingdom of heaven is at hand" to mean within one’s reach, right now. Which even today many mainstream denominations teach that heaven is something not within reach right now.

　
Also, just where is the Kingdom of God?

Lk:17:21: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

Isn’t the Throne Heaven, and the footstool earth? And isn’t the Presence of God (Holy Spirit) within you?

 

[Josho]

I agree with most of this, but what i believe is you only have to ask Jesus into your heart once, and then you are saved, if you sin, then you repent, and you're forgiven, there's no need to ask God into your heart everytime you sin. But when you are living freely in sin, that's when it becomes a different story, and it can become very dangerous, that's when we can drift off onto the wide and broad path, this is why it's important to fear God and try to live a lifestyle of holiness, not only for that reason, but to be a light for the world, and be a good influence to everyone else, that others may follow in our footsteps.

 

[DPMartin]

Josho

It’s common cense to understand that it’s a growing process. The more your relationship in Christ the more is manifest in you. It’s not a come to God and instantly people are diving into your shadow to get healed like with Peter. It’s generally considered amongst most that Paul spent some 17 years before he was asked to join the Ministry of Grace.

Besides God is your witness of whether you belong with Him or not.

 

[emekrus]

I agree with most of this, but what i believe is you only have to ask Jesus into your heart once, and then you are saved, if you sin, then you repent, and you're forgiven, there's no need to ask God into your heart everytime you sin. But when you are living freely in sin, that's when it becomes a different story, and it can become very dangerous, that's when we can drift off onto the wide and broad path, this is why it's important to fear God and try to live a lifestyle of holiness, not only for that reason, but to be a light for the world, and be a good influence to everyone else, that others may follow in our footsteps.

Yes Brother, you don't always have to give your life to Jesus each time you fall into temptation. But each time you do backslide, you need to rededicate your heart to Christ. You know falling and backsliding are two totally different thing.

Backsliding is going back to what you stopped doing because of Christ and that for a season. But falling is majorly by mistake, and if you do fall, as you acknowledge it, confess it, and repent, God is faithful and just to forgive.

 

[Butch5]

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”—Matthew 4:17

The Kingdom of heaven is the same as the Kingdom of God. As we begin to unveil the mystery of the Kingdom of God, it is very necessary for us to understand the term, ‘kingdom’. A kingdom is a particular place with a ruling King. Hence, the Kingdom of God (or heaven) is a realm that is ruled by God…

To this end, every individual whose life and actions are dictated or ruled by God (in their hearts or spirit) are in the kingdom of God (Luke 17:20-21). When Jesus said, repent for the kingdom of God is at hand, he meant it in two broad sense.

If you check your dictionary, the phrase ‘at hand’ means: to be close- in terms of place (location) or in terms of time. Jesus meant ‘at hand’ in the two sense of it. He meant we should repent, because the kingdom of God is close to us in terms of location and in terms of time.

The locational closeness is the one we enter immediately we accept him. Then the time closeness, is the one we enter, when we’re resurrected or when we change this our mortal body for the spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:54), in the great beyond.

Hence, the kingdom of God or heaven is in two dimensions. One already here on earth (The locational-by faith), and the other in the great beyond- eternity in the New Jerusalem (after death, resurrection or transfiguration)—Mark 10: 30; Revelation 21:1-7.

Now from my own personal revelation (call it understanding), if you are not already enjoying the benefits of the kingdom of heaven here on earth, the chances are, you may not make it to the great beyond. Contrary to the teachings of the ‘evangelicals’, who believe that it’s only in the great beyond, we can enjoy the benefits of the Kingdom of God…

What Then Are The Features Of The Kingdom Of God or Heaven?

Any Christian who practically lives in the reality of the following supernatural, Christian consciousness, is already in the Kingdom of God. In other words, he is already living in the reality of heaven on earth.
Here are the features of the kingdom of God or Heaven:

1. Righteousness—“For the Kingdom of God is not in meat and drink; but RIGHTEOUSNESS, and peace, and joy” Romans 14:17.
   When a Christian lives a lifestyle of holiness, that is, living above sin, then he is in the kingdom of God. On the other hand, if an individual is living freely in sin, he is not in the kingdom of God yet.
2. Peace and Joy—from the above scripture (Rom 14: 17): Another glaring feature of the Kingdom of God, is peace and joy. You know, the type of peace, the scripture says, passes all human understanding (Philippians 4:7).
   
   And the Lord Jesus said; ‘my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you’. And you can have this kind of peace and joy, even if you do not have a dime on you. Even if the whole world is collapsing. So if you do not have this holy peace and joy in your heart, check it- you may not be in, or may have moved out of the Kingdom.
3. The Kingdom of God (or heaven) is in Power—another great and important feature of the kingdom of God is the demonstration of the power of God. The kingdom of God cannot be in you (Lk 17:20-21), without the evidence of supernatural manifestations.
   
   You know, Jesus said; ‘these signs shall follow them that believe…’ (Mark 16:15-19). Then again, he said in Luke 11: 20; “If I cast devils by the finger of God, then the Kingdom of God is come upon you”. Hence, the proof of the Kingdom, is in demonstration of the Power of the world to come—Hebrews 6:5.
   

You can’t be in the kingdom of God and lack supernatural power. You can’t be in the kingdom truly, and still be oppressed by the devil and his agents.


If all these features outlined here, are not realities in your life, the chances are, you’re not yet in the Kingdom of God, or maybe you must have derailed. And you need to repent of your sins (including unbelief) and accept Jesus into your heart as your Lord and personal Savior…

To do that, say out loud; Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins. I accept you today, as my Lord and personal savior. Wash me with your precious blood. Write my name in the Lamb’s book of Life. Thank you Father for saving me, in Jesus Name!

Congrats! You’re now a new creature, old things have passed away, and all things have become new. You’re now a recognized member of the Kingdom of God and heaven.

It is my prayer, that the LORD, keep you in his kingdom till the time of his coming, in Jesus Matchless Name!

Remain Blessed!

Couple of questions. Where does Scripture say that the Kingdom of God/Heaven is in the great beyond? Where does Scripture say that one can't be a Christian unless they are doing supernatural things? Where does Scripture say to say a little prayer and you'll be saved?

 

[emekrus]

Couple of questions. Where does Scripture say that the Kingdom of God/Heaven is in the great beyond? Where does Scripture say that one can't be a Christian unless they are doing supernatural things? Where does Scripture say to say a little prayer and you'll be saved?

Well, Mr. Butch, the answers to all your questions are very glaring in the article. every point mentioned carries the scriptural backings. Now may be the only one that may not be there is the one concerning prayer for salvation. And you can get that in the book of Romans it says "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation'. I may not be able to quote that scripture verbatim, but I'm sure it rings a bell. Hence, if anyone believes in Christ, and confesses him as his Lord and personal savior, that person is instantly saved by faith.

 

[Butch5]

Well, Mr. Butch, the answers to all your questions are very glaring in the article. every point mentioned carries the scriptural backings. Now may be the only one that may not be there is the one concerning prayer for salvation. And you can get that in the book of Romans it says "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation'. I may not be able to quote that scripture verbatim, but I'm sure it rings a bell. Hence, if anyone believes in Christ, and confesses him as his Lord and personal savior, that person is instantly saved by faith.

Yeah, but one can make just about any claim and take a verse of Scripture out of it's context and claim it says what they claim. You see, in order for anyone to see your point you need to elaborate on the Scripture passages that you use and show how they prove your point. I may see a passage of Scripture completely different than you do and so what you believe is evidence for you position may mean something completely different to me. I didn't see any Scripture that speaks of the Kingdom in the "Great Beyond." I didn't see any Scripture that says one can't be a Christian unless they are doing supernatural things. And I didn't Scripture that says say a prayer and you're saved. I would submit that the passage you are referring to from Romans 10 is speaking about making your intention to follow Christ know aloud, not a prayer to God. I ask because I believe many Christians are confused about the Kingdom of God. Many have this idea that it is some kingdom somewhere off in space, it's not. It will be right here on this earth when Christ returns.

 

[ATP]

Many have this idea that it is some kingdom somewhere off in space, it's not. It will be right here on this earth when Christ returns.

Where will we be when we're raptured and with Christ for seven years. Where is it coming down from. - ATP

Rev 21:2 NIV saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.

 

[Butch5]

Where will we be when we're raptured and with Christ for seven years. Where is it coming down from. - ATP

Rev 21:2 NIV saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.

Raptured and with Christ for seven years?

 

[ATP]

Raptured and with Christ for seven years?

Yes, the great tribulation. When we are raptured where do we go if not space? Rev 21:2 NIV

 

[Josho]

Yeah, but one can make just about any claim and take a verse of Scripture out of it's context and claim it says what they claim. You see, in order for anyone to see your point you need to elaborate on the Scripture passages that you use and show how they prove your point. I may see a passage of Scripture completely different than you do and so what you believe is evidence for you position may mean something completely different to me. I didn't see any Scripture that speaks of the Kingdom in the "Great Beyond." I didn't see any Scripture that says one can't be a Christian unless they are doing supernatural things. And I didn't Scripture that says say a prayer and you're saved. I would submit that the passage you are referring to from Romans 10 is speaking about making your intention to follow Christ know aloud, not a prayer to God. I ask because I believe many Christians are confused about the Kingdom of God. Many have this idea that it is some kingdom somewhere off in space, it's not. It will be right here on this earth when Christ returns.

Why not ask God? Ring his telephone number it's 333. You may not see a scripture that says this or that, but God can reveal stuff to you, if you ask him.



Jeremiah 33:3New International Version (NIV)
3 ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

 

[Butch5]

Yes, the great tribulation. When we are raptured where do we go if not space? Rev 21:2 NIV

Are referring to a rapture of the church prior to the tribulation? If so, I don't believe that is found in Scripture. If you are referring to when Christ returns, Scripture says we will meet Him in the air.

 

[Butch5]

Why not ask God? Ring his telephone number it's 333. You may not see a scripture that says this or that, but God can reveal stuff to you, if you ask him.


Jeremiah 33:3New International Version (NIV)
3 ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

What's the area code?

 

[ATP]

Are referring to a rapture of the church prior to the tribulation? If so, I don't believe that is found in Scripture. If you are referring to when Christ returns, Scripture says we will meet Him in the air.

Isn't the tribulation God's wrath. Scripture says believers aren't appointed to wrath.

 

[Butch5]

Isn't the tribulation God's wrath. Scripture says believers aren't appointed to wrath.

Yes.