"Let Your Kingdom Come" -When WilL God's Kingdom Come?

A few days before Jesus was put to death, four of his apostles asked him:  "What will be the sign of your presence and the conclusion of  the system of things?"  (Matthew 24:3;  Mark 13:4)  Jesus answered by relating the extensive prophecy that is recorded in Matthew chapters 24 and 25.  Jesus detailed various global events that would serve as a sign identifying a time period called  his "presence."  The start of his presence would coincide with the establishment of the Kingdom; and the culmination of his presence with the coming of the Kingdom.  We have ample proof that Jesus' prophecy has been undergoing fulfillment since 1914.  Hence, that year marked the start of his presence and the establishment of the Kingdom.

When, though, will God's Kingdom finally come? Jesus did not reveal exactly when they would happen. (Matthew 24:36) but did he say something that could assure us that it is very near indeed. Jesus indicated that the Kingdom  would come after "this generation" witnessed the fulfillment of the prophetic sign.  (Read Matthew 24:32-34.)  To whom does the expression "this generation " refer?  Let us take a closer look at Jesus' words. 

"This Generation" Did Jesus have in mind unbelievers?  No.  Consider his audience. Jesus related this prophecy to a few apostles who had "approached him privately."  (Matthew 24:3)  The apostles would soon  be anointed with holy spirit.  Note also the context.  Before he spoke about "this generation,"  Jesus said:  "Now learn this illustration from the fig tree. Just as soon as its young branch grows tender and sprouts its leaves,you know that summer is near. Likewise also you, when you see all these things, know that he is at the doors."  Jesus' anointed followers-not unbelievers-would see the things he foretold and would discern their significance, namely, that Jesus "is near at the doors"  Therefore, when Jesus spoke of ""this generation" he had in mind his anointed followers.

Next time: "Let  Your Kingdom Come" -Generation

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