GOD'S KINGDOM RULES

THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM

Imagine that a fire destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him?  Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up after the debris from the fire and that good has been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.

Similarly, Jehovah gives us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the Law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement.  (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon Jehovah's throne."  (1 Chronicles 29:23)  Moreover, it had been foretold:  "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong."  (Genesis 49:10)  Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. -Luke 1:32, 33. 

The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles.  (Ephesians 2:19, 20; Revelation 21:14)  These were  the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ.  While on earth, these prospective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command:  "Go . . . and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." -Matthew 28:19. 

Next time: GOD'S KINGDOM RULES/Conclusion of THE REALITY OF GOD'S KINGDOM

From the book: KNOWLEDGE That Leads to Everlasting Life