This
question can be answered in four ways:
i.
From the beginning God has been king of
this world and of the whole creation. This is the testimony of the Old
Testament as in Psalm 93:10, 97:1. But also in the Old Testament another
perspective is perspective is presented because the kingdom of God was not
fully established at that time: only in the future would it be established (Psalm 2, Isaiah
24:23, 52:7).
ii.
In the time of Jesus ministry the kingdom
of God has come near Mark 1:15. By believing in Jesus and following him
people could enter the kingdom. Many others were healed or fed and benefited
from Jesus ministry. But even at that time the kingdom of God was not fully
established because only not believed in Jesus received the kingdom. Many did
nit believe in him and did not enter the kingdom.
iii.
It can be seen from Mark 9:1
that the kingdom of God will come in power. This happened through Jesus death
resurrection and ascension and the coming od the Holy Spirit. Through these
events the kingdom of God has been established fully way. But even at the time
kingdom was not fully established. Till today many have rejected God's plan and
have not entered his kingdom. The kingdom of God is still growing secretly.
iv.
At the time of Jesus second coming the kingdom
of God will be fully established. At that time Jesus the Son of man will come
in glory (Mark
8:38, 14:62).
2.
How is it possible
to enter the kingdom of God?
We must make
at least six responses:
a.
We must repent (Mark 1:15).
b.
We must believe in the gospel (Mark 1:15).
c.
We must obey God's will (Mark 3:35).
d.
We must pay attention to the word of God (Mark 4:24).
e.
We must become like children (Mark 10:14-15).
Just as a child puts his trust in others
so we must put our trust in the grace of God alone. To such alone the kingdom
of God belongs (Mark 10:14); such alone can receive the kingdom and enter it (Mark 10:15).
f.
We must follow Jesus in total commitment (Mark 8:34-38,
9:47, 10:21-23).
Quiz
True
or False ?
1.
The kingdom of God will come only at the
end of this age.
2.
The kingdom of God could be seen through
Jesus ministry.
3.
The kingdom of God was fully established
through Jesus ministry.
4.
It is difficult for a rich man to enter
the kingdom of God .
5.
The kingdom of God belongs to all
children.
6.
God is king of Nepal.
7.
In Nepal the Kingdom of God has been fully
established.
8.
All nepalis have entered the kingdom of
God.
