Understanding the Kingdom Shift: From Earth to Heaven

Revelation is one of the most enigmatic books in the Bible, filled with prophecies and apocalyptic imagery. One recurring theme in this book is the transition of the kingdom of the world into the kingdom of God. This shift is symbolized in the verses where angels proclaim, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” (Revelation 11:15, ESV). Let us explore the meaning behind this proclamation and how it fits into the overarching narrative of the Bible.

Apocalyptic Prophecies and the Second Coming

Revelation is a book of apocalyptic prophecies, providing insights into the final days of the world. The book refers to the seven trumpets which indicate the second coming of Christ. According to Revelation, in the end times, the Lord will defeat the worldly king, the devil, and His people will live on earth for a thousand years. After this period, the earth will be destroyed, and His followers will live in heaven forever. However, it is important to note that this understanding is based on interpretations and the context of the time Revelation was written.

The Kingdom of God and the Role of Jesus

According to the text, God (referring to Jesus) will come to earth and take over rule, removing wicked and foolish rulers. This action is prophesied in Revelation 12:7-11, where it states: “And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon and the dragon and his angels fought. But they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. So the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world. He was cast to the earth and his angels were cast out with him. Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, ‘Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ.’”

Jesus, as the Christ (anointed one), will reign and offer salvation to His people. This reign is described as eternal, and it marks a significant shift from the current state of the world to a future where righteousness prevails.

Temporary Stewardship and the Kingdom of Creation

Earth was given to us as a temporary stewardship by God. Revelation suggests that after this period of rule, Jesus will reclaim the realm from the corrupting effects of sin. The idea of stewardship is further emphasized in the creation narrative, where God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh (Sabbath), representing a pattern of rest and renewal.

When Jesus takes over, He will redeem creation, restoring it to its original state. According to biblical interpretation, this redemption will encompass spiritual and physical realms. This restoration will occur over 7000 years, culminating in a new creation that is completely devoid of sin. The removal of our ability to sin is necessary for living in eternal perfection without fear of being corrupted by sin, which is incompatible with the sanctity of eternity.

This interpretation suggests that the kingdom on earth is a show and tell. Under Adam, there was no law; only conscience. Under Abraham and Moses, there was the law to constrain us. Under Jesus, there was grace and the internal empowering of the Holy Spirit. Under Satan, lawlessness reigned. Under Jesus, there will be both the law and the internal power of the Holy Spirit, plus the physical presence of Jesus.

Eternal Life and the Perfect Creation

The ultimate goal is to receive eternal life. Currently, our life on earth is temporary due to sin. Adam's fall excluded him from the Tree of Life, preventing access to eternal life. The Bible teaches that sin cannot enter eternity, and it must be removed to ensure perfection. Eternity will be a place of perfect creation and perfect love, free from sin.

The journey towards this perfect state is not without challenges. Through various scenarios (lawlessness under Satan, grace and internal empowerment under Jesus, and the presence of Jesus during the thousand-year reign), God teaches us about the importance of His rule and our need to submit to it.

Conclusion

While the interpretation of Revelation is complex, the core message remains clear: the kingdom of God is a perfected state that awaits us at the end of time. Nothing can disrupt this perfect state, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with God’s will. Remember, the world is merely a temporary setting, while eternity is forever. May you be blessed in this journey of faith.