What Is God's Kingdom?

 

Millions of people worldwide are familiar with the prayer that many call Our Father, or the Lord's Prayer. Both expressions refer to a famous prayer given as a model by Jesus Christ himself. It is a very meaningful prayer, and a consideration of its first three petitions will help you to learn more about what the Bible really teaches. 

At the beginning of t his model prayer, Jesus instructed his hearers:  "You must pray, then, this way: 'Our heavenly Father, Jehovah, let your  name be sanctified, Let  your Kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:9-13)  What is the significance of these petitions?

Note: The prayer above is the way I say it because It, to me, not only mentions his name, but is more respectful and honoring him. 

We have already learned a lot about God's name, Jehovah. And to some extent we have discussed God's will-what he has done and will yet do for mankind.  To what, though, was Jesus referring when he told us to pray "Let your Kingdom come"? What is God's Kingdom? How will its coming sanctify God's Name, or make it holy? and how is the coming of the Kingdom related to the doing of God's will.?

Next time: What Is God's Kingdom? - What God's Kingdom Is

From the j.w.org publications