Jesus taught His disciples to prioritize seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else. In Matthew 6:33, He said, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This instruction underscores the paramount importance of aligning one’s life with God’s reign and righteousness.
Let’s explore Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom in light of this foundational principle:
1. Nature of the Kingdom: Jesus often used parables to explain the Kingdom’s nature. In Mark 4:30-32, He compares it to a mustard seed, starting small but growing into something significant. Luke 17:20-21 emphasizes that the Kingdom is among us, not limited to a specific place or time.
2. Repentance and Faith: Jesus declared in Mark 1:15, “The time has come,” He said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Repentance and faith are essential for entering and experiencing the Kingdom.
3. Inclusivity: Jesus welcomed all into the Kingdom. In Matthew 19:14, He said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” He also dined with sinners and outcasts, demonstrating God’s inclusive love (Luke 15:1-2).
4. Servanthood: Jesus taught that greatness in the Kingdom is found in service. In Mark 10:45, He said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” He exemplified this by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17).
5. Justice and Righteousness: Jesus emphasized justice and righteousness in the Kingdom. In Matthew 5:6, he said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” He also spoke against oppression and exploitation (Luke 4:18-19).
6. Eternal Life: Jesus promised eternal life to those in the Kingdom. In John 3:16, He said, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This eternal life is a gift of God’s grace.
7. Kingdom Come: Jesus spoke of the future consummation of the Kingdom. In Matthew 25:31-34, He describes His return in glory, separating the righteous from the wicked. Revelation 21:1-4 depicts the final realization of the Kingdom, where God dwells with His people in a new heaven and earth.
These teachings illustrate Jesus’ vision of a Kingdom characterized by love, justice, and eternal life, both now and in the age to come.
