Many Christians have pondered the different terms used in Scripture in connection with the kingdom and have been thoroughly confused. It has not helped that—in an attempt to solve the problem—faulty definitions have been brought forward to explain the differences between the terms. An example is: "'The kingdom of God' refers to those who are real believers, and 'the kingdom of the heavens' has a mixture of both real believers and mere professing believers." This definition is an oversimplification of these terms, and furthermore, it does not fit every reference concerning the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the heavens. For instance, in Luke 13:17-2117And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him. 18Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? 19It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it. 20And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. (Luke 13:17‑21), the Lord speaks of two characteristics of "the kingdom of God" where there are mere professing persons in it, corrupting it with their evil doctrines and practices. Also, some of the references to "the kingdom of the heavens" refer only to those who are real believers—i.e. the parable of the "treasure" and the parable of the "pearl" (Matt. 13:44-4644Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. 45Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: 46Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. (Matthew 13:44‑46)).
Being conscious that we could cause further confusion on the subject, we proceed with caution and heartfelt dependence upon the Lord. Our aim is to provide a simple, but accurate, explanation of the terms Scripture uses concerning the kingdom.
There are ten of these terms. This does not mean that there are ten kingdoms, but rather, ten aspects of one kingdom. The first two terms ("the kingdom of God" and "the kingdom of the heavens") are used many times in Scripture, whereas most of the other expressions concerning the kingdom are only used once. This indicates that these are the two main terms describing the kingdom.
1) The Kingdom of God
This term (mentioned over 70 times) has to do with the moral side of the kingdom. That is, when it is used, it is emphasizing the moral order that should be found in the walk and ways of those who are in the kingdom.
In Romans 14:1717For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. (Romans 14:17), the Apostle Paul defines this aspect of the kingdom as: “The kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Thus, he shows that it has nothing to do with outward religious rituals and ceremony (“meat and drink”), but rather, with moral characteristics (“righteousness, and peace, and joy”) that God would produce in His people. Hence, the kingdom of God has to do with moral principles regarding our attitudes, and our walk and ways (Matt. 6:3333But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33)). It is significant that the Gospel of Luke, which has a moral theme throughout, mentions the term more than any other book in the Bible.
In answer to those who were looking for the kingdom of God to be set up, the Lord Jesus said, “The kingdom of God cometh not with observation (outward show): neither shall they say, Lo here! Or, lo there! For, behold, the kingdom of God is within [in the midst of] you” (Luke 17:20-2120And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (Luke 17:20‑21)). The people thought that the kingdom of God would come in with an outward display of political power and material blessing, but the Lord explained that it had already come and was on display "in the midst" of them—it was seen in His life. The moral features of the kingdom were perfectly displayed in His walk and ways. Hence, the kingdom of God is an inward, moral order that manifests itself in practical righteousness in its subjects.
A person enters the kingdom of God in reality, by new birth. The Lord said, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:55Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5)). Possessing a new life and nature from God (communicated through new birth) enables a person to live according to the moral standards of the kingdom. Apart from new birth, a person cannot rightly display the moral features of the kingdom of God, nor can he or she appreciate them displayed in others (John 3:33Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3)).
The Apostle Paul said (as to his labours): “That I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God” (Acts 20:24-2724But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 25And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 26Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. (Acts 20:24‑27)). He used three expressions here to indicate the order in which he taught people, and it helps us to understand the place that the kingdom of God should have in our ministry. After people were saved by “the gospel of the grace of God,” Paul preached to them “the kingdom of God,” and then after that, he declared unto them all “the counsel of God,” which involves the truth of the Mystery. This shows that after believing the gospel, people need a moral order to be established in their lives. They need instruction on how to walk uprightly in God’s kingdom. It is only after that, that they would be in a state to profit from the whole counsel of God concerning Christ and the Church.
While a person must enter the kingdom in reality by new birth, it is possible for one to put on an outward display of the moral features of the kingdom without being a real believer. Luke 13:18-2118Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? 19It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it. 20And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. (Luke 13:18‑21), indicates this sort of hypocrisy. The Lord taught that the kingdom of God (in the hands of men) would develop into "a great tree" of profession. There would be many who would attempt to display the moral features of the kingdom in their lives but are false professors. And also, there would be some who would teach false principles ("leaven") concerning moral standards in the kingdom, and as a result, many would be corrupted by them.
In the Millennium, the kingdom will be marked by the appropriate moral features in its subjects. Men will be forced to live godly lives in “the regeneration”—the new moral order in the earth (Matt. 19:2828And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28)). Those who are not truly characterized by the moral features of the kingdom—not having a new life and nature through new birth—"shall not inherit the kingdom of God" in its eternal sense (1 Cor. 6:9-109Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9‑10)) because they are not real children of God (Eph. 5:55For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Ephesians 5:5)).
2) The Kingdom of the Heavens
This is a term that is only found in Matthew’s gospel—occurring 33 times. It refers to the kingdom that was promised in the Old Testament Scriptures which the Messiah of Israel would set up on earth, having its seat of rule in the heavens. It is not a kingdom in heaven, as commonly thought, but rather, a kingdom on earth whose seat of government is in the heavens. Psalm 103:1919The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. (Psalm 103:19) clearly indicates this: “The LORD hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom ruleth over all.” Hence, the Lord will rule over all the earth from the heavens.
Genesis 49:1010The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. (Genesis 49:10) promises that a king would rise out of the tribe of Judah. This is indicated in the fact that the “sceptre” (the symbol of a king’s royal power and authority) would be found in the lineage of the tribe of Judah. Hence, there would be a King who would come out of the lineage of Judah to whom the Gentile nations ("peoples") would gather themselves (Zech. 2:1111And many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto thee. (Zechariah 2:11), etc.). Since a king cannot reign without a sphere to reign over, a kingdom, therefore, is implied.
In 2 Samuel 7:12-1312And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. 13He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever. (2 Samuel 7:12‑13), the Lord confirmed to David that One of his posterity would reign in that kingdom “forever.” This is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ, who is great David’s greater Son (Psa. 110:11<<A Psalm of David.>> The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. (Psalm 110:1); Matt. 1:11The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. (Matthew 1:1)).
Then, in Daniel 2:31-4531Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. 32This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass, 33His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay. 34Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces. 35Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. 36This is the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king. 37Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory. 38And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold. 39And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth. 40And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise. 41And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. 42And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. 43And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. 44And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. 45Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. (Daniel 2:31‑45), the prophet indicates that the kingdom would be established when the Messiah ("the Stone" that was "cut without hands") would put an end to "the times of the Gentiles" at His Appearing (Luke 21:24-2824And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. 25And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. (Luke 21:24‑28)). "The Stone" would fall on “the feet” of "the image" (the Roman Empire) and break it into pieces. After crushing the image, the “Stone” became “a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.” A “mountain,” in Scripture, is a figure of a long-established governmental power. This means that in the days when the Roman Empire would be in power, the Lord Jesus would come in judgment and establish His kingdom. Since the Roman Empire is now defunct, this necessitates a revival of that empire in the future. The fact that the “mountain” filled the whole earth, means that the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ will have its dominion over the whole earth (Psa. 72:88He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth. (Psalm 72:8); Zech. 14:99And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one. (Zechariah 14:9)). Hence, we learn from Nebuchadnezzar's dream and its interpretation by Daniel when the great kingdom of Christ will be established—at His Appearing. Daniel 7:13-1413I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:13‑14) confirms that the establishment of the kingdom will be when the Lord Jesus comes as the Son of Man. This great kingdom will be used of God to the display of the power and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ and for the blessing of man on earth. Many Old Testament prophets speak of the wonderful utopian conditions that will exist on earth during the kingdom.
What is not mentioned in the Old Testament prophecies is that "the kingdom of the heavens" would pass through two phases on account of the Jew's rejection of their Messiah. This is seen in the outline of Matthew's Gospel. In chapters 1-10, the Lord presented Himself to the nation as their Messiah. He proved that He had all the credentials and the power to bring in the kingdom as promised by the Old Testament prophets. But He was rejected by the people in the villages of Galilee (chap. 11) and by the leaders of the nation in Judea (chap. 12:24-45; Mark 3:2222And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. (Mark 3:22)). Consequently, in a number of symbolic actions and teachings, the Lord indicated that He would sever His connections with the nation (temporarily) and bring in the kingdom in a different character altogether. Hence, the kingdom would pass through a mystical phase first, before it would be seen in its public manifestation, as described by the Old Testament prophets (Matt. 13:10-1710And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? 11He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 12For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. 13Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. 14And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: 15For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. 16But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. 17For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. (Matthew 13:10‑17)).
These two phases can be distinguished by the letter “M.”
They can also be distinguished by the letter “P.”
There is, therefore, a present phase and a future phase of the kingdom of the heavens. Of the 33 times that the term “the kingdom of the heavens” is used in Scripture, 24 are referring to the kingdom in its present mystical phase; the other nine have to do with the kingdom in its future public manifestation. As noted, the public manifestation of the kingdom is presently in abeyance and will not be established until a future day (i.e. the Millennium).
Each of these two phases of the kingdom of the heavens has its own starting point. The parable in Luke 19:11-1211And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. 12He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. (Luke 19:11‑12) indicates this. The mystery phase began when the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to heaven after His death and resurrection. This is seen in the “nobleman” (the Lord Himself) going to a “far country” (heaven) and receiving the "kingdom" (Acts 1:9-119And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. (Acts 1:9‑11); Psa. 110:11<<A Psalm of David.>> The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. (Psalm 110:1)). Later, the nobleman returned to take account of the servants whom he had left in charge of certain responsibilities, and then, He rewarded those who were faithful. This would be at the Rapture. The servant who was found to have no faith—and proved it by hiding his “pound” in the earth—was judged (Luke 19:20-2720And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin: 21For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow. 22And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow: 23Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury? 24And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds. 25(And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.) 26For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. 27But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me. (Luke 19:20‑27)). This will happen to the faithless in the kingdom at the Appearing of Christ (Matt. 13:38-4238The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; 39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. 40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. 41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; 42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 13:38‑42)). Hence, the starting point of the kingdom of the heavens in its manifested form of power and glory will be at the Appearing of Christ (Dan. 2:35; 7:13-1435Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. (Daniel 2:35)
13I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:13‑14); Rev. 11:1515And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 11:15)).
The kingdom at this present time has a mystery character to it because it does not look like there is a kingdom in session. From all outward appearances it doesn’t seem as though God has anything going on in this world at all. Presently, a person enters the kingdom of the heavens in its mystery form by making a simple profession of knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour; the formal way is by being baptised.
Presently, the kingdom of the heavens exists in a mystical or mysterious form because:
It is without a visible King.
It is without an earthly geographical headquarters.
It is without any national boundaries.
Most of its professed subjects do not regard the authority of the King and live as if there were no King.
Regardless of these peculiarities, faith sees the King (the Lord Jesus) on His throne today in His kingdom. As good subjects in the kingdom, faith leads the believer to live according to the principles of His Word, as given in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7), until the kingdom passes into its manifestation phase.
From chapter 13 onward in Matthew’s Gospel, the Lord gave ten similitudes of “the kingdom of the heavens” in its mystery phase. These similitudes present a comprehensive description of the character that the kingdom would have in this present day when the King is absent. The point of these special parables is not to reconcile the Christian revelation of truth (given in the epistles) with what is found in the similitudes. There is a salient point that the Lord intends for us to get out of each one, but they do not necessarily incorporate all of the doctrines of Christianity into them. For instance, in the 9th and 10th similitudes we are seen as guests invited to the wedding, and not as the bride. The bride in both similitudes is not in the picture because the Lord is focusing on a different side of things. Another example is that God is seen as the King, rather than the Lord Jesus, in the 7th and the 9th similitudes. Therefore, we must focus on the salient point in each similitude to understand the lesson that the Lord is teaching in each one.
The ten similitudes can be divided into three groups. The first group (#1 thru #3) tell us what Satan is doing in the kingdom. The next group (#4 thru #6) tell us what the Lord is doing in the kingdom in spite of Satan’s work. The last group (#7 thru #10) tell us what we should be doing in the kingdom as good subjects.
Similitude #1—Satan is introducing evil persons ("tares") into the kingdom (Matt. 13:24-30, 37-4324Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: 25But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. 26But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. 27So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? 28He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? 29But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. 30Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. (Matthew 13:24‑30)
37He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; 38The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; 39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. 40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. 41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; 42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Matthew 13:37‑43)).
Similitude #4—The Lord is securing individuals (a "treasure") for Himself (Matt.13:44).
Similitude #6—The Lord is saving souls by the gospel (the "dragnet") and putting them into local assemblies ("vessels") (Matt. 13:47-5047Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: 48Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. 49So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, 50And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 13:47‑50)).
Similitude #7—We should maintain a right state of soul in relation to the Lord and have a forgiving spirit toward our brethren for fear of the governmental dealings of God (Matt. 18:23-3523Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. 24And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 25But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 27Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 28But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. 29And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 30And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. 31So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 33Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 34And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. 35So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses. (Matthew 18:23‑35)).
Similitude #8—We should serve in the Lord’s vineyard without competition, jealousy, or complaint (Matt. 20:1-161For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. 2And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. 5Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. 6And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? 7They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. 8So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. 9And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. 10But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. 11And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, 12Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. 13But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? 14Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. 15Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? 16So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen. (Matthew 20:1‑16)).
Similitude #9—We should spread the gospel to the world, even though the Lord is rejected (Matt. 22:1-141And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, 2The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, 3And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. 4Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. 5But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: 6And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. 7But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. 9Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. 10So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. 11And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: 12And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. 13Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 14For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:1‑14)).
Similitude #10—We should be looking for the imminent return of the Lord (Matt. 25:1-131Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 4But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. 6And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. 7Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. 9But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. 11Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. 13Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:1‑13)).
As mentioned, the kingdom of the heavens will pass into its manifestation phase at the Appearing of Christ. The kingdom, in this aspect, will be brought in by the power of God in judgment. “When Thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness” (Isa. 26:99With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness. (Isaiah 26:9); Acts 17:3131Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17:31)). In establishing the kingdom of the heavens in power, the first thing the Lord will do is cleanse the kingdom of the mixture that has existed in it for many years. At this time, those who are not real believers will be taken out in judgment by the angels (Matt. 13:40-43; 24:40-4140As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. 41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; 42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Matthew 13:40‑43)
40Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 41Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. (Matthew 24:40‑41)). These are those who have professed subjection to the King but have rejected the gospel of the grace of God. The first of this class of persons to go into the lake of fire are the Beast and the False Prophet—the Antichrist (Rev. 19:2020And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. (Revelation 19:20)). After the angels pass through the western lands, where the gospel is known and has been rejected by the masses, there will be relatively few persons left! (Isa. 24:11Behold, the Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabitants thereof. (Isaiah 24:1)) Those who are left on earth will be given an opportunity to live under the righteous reign of Christ (Isa. 32:1; 61:111Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment. (Isaiah 32:1)
11For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations. (Isaiah 61:11)). These will be the few still remaining in the western lands and the masses in the Third World countries who have not been killed in the war-judgments of the Lord at His Appearing and just after it. They will not be Christians (all Christians will have been taken to heaven at the Rapture), but those who have not rejected the gospel of God’s grace that is being preached today.
There are a number of different expressions that refer to the kingdom of the heavens in the time of its display of glory and power (manifestation):
The World to Come (Matt. 12:3232And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. (Matthew 12:32); Mark 10:3030But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. (Mark 10:30); Eph. 1:2121Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: (Ephesians 1:21); Heb. 2:55For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. (Hebrews 2:5))
After the Millennium is concluded, the Lord Jesus will deliver up the public reign of the kingdom to God the Father (1 Cor. 15:24-2824Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (1 Corinthians 15:24‑28)). Having received the kingdom from God, He will deliver it back to Him with an enhanced glory. All administrators in history have failed to maintain the sphere of authority committed to them in the state in which it was given. Neither Adam, nor David, nor Solomon, nor any Gentile monarch has done so. However, when the Lord takes the kingdom, “all enemies” will not yet be "put down," but when He delivers it up to the Father in "the end," all will be in complete subjection to God. This sets Him apart from all others as the greatest Administrator—the “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Rev. 19:1616And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:16)).
3) The Kingdom of the Son of Man
When the kingdom of the heavens passes into its full manifestation in the Millennium, Christ will reign publicly as "the Son of Man." There will be two departments in the kingdom—a heavenly sphere and an earthly sphere. The earthly side is the kingdom of the Son of Man (Matt. 13:41; 16:28; 19:28; 20:2141The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; (Matthew 13:41)
28Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom. (Matthew 16:28)
28And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28)
21And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. (Matthew 20:21); Luke 22:30; 23:4230That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Luke 22:30)
42And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. (Luke 23:42); 2 Tim. 4:11I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; (2 Timothy 4:1); Heb. 1:88But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. (Hebrews 1:8); Rev. 3:21; 20:421To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. (Revelation 3:21)
4And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4)), and will be composed of the remnant of Israel and the Gentile nations (Zech. 2:1111And many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto thee. (Zechariah 2:11); Rev. 2:26-27; 21:2426And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. (Revelation 2:26‑27)
24And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it. (Revelation 21:24)).
4) The Kingdom of Their Father
The heavenly side of the kingdom in the day of Christ's public reign (the Millennium) is called "the kingdom of their Father" (Matt. 6:10; 13:43; 26:2910Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:10)
43Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Matthew 13:43)
29But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. (Matthew 26:29); 1 Thess. 2:1212That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. (1 Thessalonians 2:12); Heb. 12:2828Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: (Hebrews 12:28)). In Matthew 13:4343Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Matthew 13:43), the Lord used the figure of the “sun,” which is a heavenly orb, to describe those in the heavenly side of the kingdom. The “righteous” who will “shine forth” in the heavens are not those who will be left on earth after the angels take the wicked out in judgment, but those who have been gathered into the “barn” (Matt. 13:3030Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. (Matthew 13:30)). The heavenly department of the kingdom will be composed of:
• Resurrected Old Testament saints ("the spirits of just men made perfect" – Heb. 12:22-2322But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, (Hebrews 12:22‑23); Matt. 8:1111And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 8:11); Luke 13:2828There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. (Luke 13:28))
These heavenly saints will reign with Christ over the earth during the Millennial day (Heb. 12:22-2322But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, (Hebrews 12:22‑23); Rev. 3:2121To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. (Revelation 3:21)). The reigning time of the heavenly saints will close at the end of the Millennium (Rev. 20:44And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4)). Revelation 22:55And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 22:5) confirms this, saying, "They shall reign to the ages of ages," which is the Eternal State.
5) The Kingdom of the Son of His Love
This term describes the one prevailing rule of life for those in the kingdom now who have the special place as being "sons"—i.e. Christians (Rom. 8:14-1514For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:14‑15); Gal. 4:55To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Galatians 4:5); Eph. 1:55Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (Ephesians 1:5)). They are as near to God as the Son Himself (Eph. 1:66To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (Ephesians 1:6)) and are loved by the Father as the Son Himself (John 17:2323I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. (John 17:23)).
6) The Kingdom of the World of Our Lord and of His Christ
This term refers to Christ's Lordship authority being established over the whole world by the power of judgment at His Appearing. This aspect of the kingdom correlates with "the day of the Lord" when He publicly asserts His universal power and authority over all men (Isa. 2:10-2210Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty. 11The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. 12For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low: 13And upon all the cedars of Lebanon, that are high and lifted up, and upon all the oaks of Bashan, 14And upon all the high mountains, and upon all the hills that are lifted up, 15And upon every high tower, and upon every fenced wall, 16And upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant pictures. 17And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low: and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. 18And the idols he shall utterly abolish. 19And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. 20In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; 21To go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. 22Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of? (Isaiah 2:10‑22); Jer. 46:1010For this is the day of the Lord God of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood: for the Lord God of hosts hath a sacrifice in the north country by the river Euphrates. (Jeremiah 46:10); Joel 1:1515Alas for the day! for the day of the Lord is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come. (Joel 1:15); Zeph. 2:2-32Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord's anger come upon you. 3Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger. (Zephaniah 2:2‑3); Mal. 4:55Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: (Malachi 4:5); 1 Thess. 5:2; 22For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. (1 Thessalonians 5:2)
2But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention. (1 Thessalonians 2:2) Thess. 2:2; 2 Peter 3:8-108But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. (2 Peter 3:8‑10)).
7) The Kingdom of Christ
This aspect of the kingdom has to do with the display of Christ's glory in the Millennium. It correlates with "the day of Christ" which emphasizes the manifestation of His glory and the manifestation of the rewards of the heavenly saints (John 8:5656Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. (John 8:56); 1 Cor. 1:8; 3:13; 5:5; 28Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:8)
13Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. (1 Corinthians 3:13)
5To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (1 Corinthians 5:5)
5That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. (1 Corinthians 2:5) Cor. 1:14; Phil. 1:6, 10; 2:166Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (Philippians 1:6)
10That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; (Philippians 1:10)
16Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain. (Philippians 2:16); 2 Thess. 1:1010When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. (2 Thessalonians 1:10)).
8) The Kingdom of Our Father David
This aspect of the kingdom sees Israel as the center of God's earthly operations.
9) The Heavenly Kingdom
This aspect has to do with the destiny of the heavenly saints.
10) The Everlasting Kingdom of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ
This aspect of the kingdom emphasizes the longevity of the kingdom. It will literally go on to the end of time, unrivaled by men. “Everlasting,” in this verse, does not mean eternal, but what goes on to the end of time. That is, the kingdom will exist for as long as time will run—which will be to the end of the Millennium. (The word “forever” is used in the same way in many places in the Old Testament.) Thus, the reign of the saints with Christ in the government of the world to come will continue “to the age of ages,” which is the Eternal State (Rev. 22:55And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 22:5) – J. N. Darby Trans.). When the Eternal State begins, there will be no need for reigning and controlling adverse powers that might rise up—as a kingdom implies.
G. Davison said: “This title assures us that once the kingdom has been set up in power, it will never be succeeded by another, as it will last as long as time lasts. It does not mean that the kingdom will go on forever in the eternal state, but rather that it will not have a successor. Kingdoms are established to keep adverse powers in subjection, as well as to protect their subjects. Indeed, one is the outcome of the other, but as there are no adverse powers in the eternal state, the kingdom will not be needed. This is clear from 1 Corinthians 15:24-2624Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. (1 Corinthians 15:24‑26)” (Precious Things, vol. 1, Answers to correspondence –July/Aug).
The Apostle Peter tells us that the saints will make their "entrance" into this everlasting aspect of the kingdom at Christ's Appearing. What will be "ministered [richly furnished]" unto them at that time is the "glory" that will be given in that day (2 Cor. 4:17; 217For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (2 Corinthians 4:17)
17For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:17) Tim. 2:10; 1 Peter 5:1010But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. (1 Peter 5:10)). Hence, the "everlasting" aspect of the kingdom is characterized by the display of glory.
At the end of time, the Lord will deliver the kingdom to the Father, in order to devote Himself to His bride (1 Cor. 15:24-2824Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (1 Corinthians 15:24‑28)). Having received the kingdom from God, He will deliver it back to Him with an enhanced glory. Every administrator in history has failed to maintain the sphere of authority in which he has reigned. Neither Adam, nor David, nor Solomon, nor any Gentile monarch has done so. However, when the Lord takes the kingdom, “all enemies” will not yet be “put down,” but when He delivers it up to the Father in "the end," they will be in complete subjection to God. This sets Christ apart from all others as the greatest Administrator.
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