Jesus went about proclaiming the good news of God. That news was that the kingdom of God is now in our midst, that a new era in God’s dealings with humanity has arrived. He, Himself, set in motion this actualization. And the only proper response to this reality was a radical change of thinking and believing. (Mark 1:14-15)
Jesus made three things clear when standing before Pilate at the time of the crucifixion. He confirmed to Pilate that He was the king, but that His rule was not connected to the political and national entities that propagated themselves through power and force. Jesus then made an extremely powerful statement, “I came to bear witness to the Truth.” This is the reality that all of creation and all creatures must acclimate to. (John 18:28-38)
Christ’s kingdom was inaugurated at the crucifixion, authenticated by the resurrection, and implemented as a result of the ascension and the formation of the kingdom community, the church. Jesus is presently at the helm of the universe; not to rest, but to rule over all things. The church, those who embrace this reign, is a gathering of kingdom citizens who proclaim this good news, give the world a glimpse of this kingdom, and point them in its direction. (Colossians 1:15-20)
We have a present and very active king. His kingdom redefines power by the energy of self-giving love. We must bear witness to this reality. This is the only credible perception of reality. (Isaiah 52:7)