Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 7
The speaker insists the kingdom message is “not a future message, nor a future kingdom, but it’s at hand… within our grasp”; where do you see modern Christianity functioning as if the kingdom is mostly future (a “waiting room” mindset), and what habits or church priorities does that future-only outlook tend to produce?
Another way to ask: Where do you see Christians acting like God’s kingdom is mostly in the future, like we’re just waiting? What habits or church goals does that kind of “waiting room” mindset usually create?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the speaker’s contrast, modern Christianity can function like a “waiting room” when it treats the Gospel mainly as how to get to heaven later, which tends to reduce kingdom discipleship now and weakens focus on living as a distinct people under King Jesus.
- The speaker says the kingdom is “not a future message, nor a future kingdom, but it’s at hand… within our grasp.”
- He critiques the “mainstream Gospel” focus: “Jesus died for me so that I can go to heaven… about me and my experience.”
- He says the focus shifts from “what I can and cannot do in order to get to heaven” to “following Jesus because he’s king.”
- He explicitly rejects the waiting mindset: instead of viewing “this world as a waiting room until we get to heaven,” believers should “create a little bit of heaven on earth.”
- He describes kingdom priorities as communal obedience: giving to the poor, living in peace, homes not divided by divorce and remarriage.