Preface

KINGDOM OF GOD Lesson 38Memory TextMatthew 6:33It is very important to understand the relationship of these words –the Kingdom and the Church. The word “Kingdom” is used about 160times in the New Testament, the word “Church” about 115 times.WHAT ARE THE DEFINITIONS OF THE WORDSKINGDOM AND CHURCH?a. Kingdom – The territory or area over which a King rules andreigns: the King’s Domain. God’s Kingdom is the reign or ruleof God, whether in heaven or earth. It is the purpose of God– The extension of God’s rule.b. Church – The called-out ones: expecially those who assembletogether for divine worship. It is the instrument of God.HOW IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD EXPRESSED ON EARTH?Jesus taught us to pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done onearth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:10a. In the Old Testament, natural Israel was the expression andinstrument of the Kingdom of God. Exodus 19:1-6b. In the New Testament, spiritual Israel (the Church) is theexpression and instrument of the Kingdom of God. Matthew21:43The instrument changes, but the purpose of God never changes.Genesis 1:26-28; 18:18, 22:18WHAT IS THE NEW TESTAMENT CONCEPT OF THEKINGDOM OF GOD?a. The Kingdom of God is not a worldly system. It is notnationalistic or materialistic. John 18:36b. The Kingdom of God is spiritual. It is within us. Luke 17:20,21c. The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy. Romans14:17d. The Kingdom of God is with power. I Corinthians 4:20; Mark9:1e. We must seek the Kingdom of God. Matthew 6:33f. The only way to enter the Kingdom of God is by a spiritual newbirth. John 3:1-5L E S S O N 3 8 Kingdom of God199