Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
The teaching argues the Kingdom is “not from this world” and yet “already here” (since some disciples would see it before they died), but “not…in its fullness yet”; what practices would show you actually believe this “already/not yet” reality rather than treating the Kingdom as only future heaven or only present social program?
Another way to ask: If the Kingdom is already here but not fully here yet, what habits would show you really believe that? How can you avoid acting like it’s only future heaven or only a present social program?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript suggests that believing the Kingdom is already here but not yet full should produce a life of present obedience and Kingdom-building in the Church, while still waiting for Jesus’ return and resurrection hope. Practices would include living as citizens of a different nation now (nonconformity, obedience to Jesus’ commands, peaceful Kingdom expansion) while trusting final peace comes when Christ returns.
- The Kingdom is “a nation that is not from this world…from heaven and not from man.”
- Yet it exists now: “some of his disciples would see the Kingdom before they die, so clearly it’s already here.”
- Not complete: “it’s not present in its fullness yet, since Jesus has not yet returned.”
- Present practice: “God calls the Church to come out from among the nations.”
- Obedience focus: “the New Testament is our guide for obeying the law of Christ.”
- Active mission now: followers are “preaching about this kingdom and building it…spreading its boundaries peacefully and in love.”
- Future hope: the faithful can trust Jesus will bring them “safely into his heavenly kingdom,” and at his return the dead are “raised from the dead.”