Isaiah indicated the kingdom of God would be established “in the last days” (Isaiah 2:2). Peter quoted Joel’s statement concerning the last days and said, “this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel” (Acts 2:16) showing the New Testament age is the last days. So did God set up the kingdom?
In Mark 9:1 Jesus is recorded saying, “Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.” Note two important points form Mark 9:1. If the kingdom has not arrived there are at least two men living today who were alive when Jesus spoke these words. Knowing this is not true we can safely know the kingdom has arrived. But note also Jesus indicated the kingdom would “come with power.” If the New Testament records the coming of the power it also records the coming of the kingdom.
Luke 24 records some of Jesus’ last words with the apostles. He explained the Old Testament teaching about His death, burial, and resurrection and the fulfilling of the great commission. He then told them, “behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). Jesus told the apostles that they would receive “power from on high” when He sent the promise of the Father.
Luke also records a conversation between Jesus and the apostles concerning the kingdom shortly before His ascension. They ask, “Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” which He answered, “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:6-8). The promised power, and kingdom were to come when the apostles received the Holy Spirit from on high. This is recorded as happening on the first Pentecost after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
But what about the king and territory of the kingdom? These questions will be taken up next week Lord willing.
—Denny