Kingdom
Category
Future, Judgment, & Kingdom
Biblical Definition
God's royal reign and rule, now revealed in Christ and awaiting final public consummation over all things.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: מַלְכוּת; Greek: βασιλεία
Transliteration
malkût; basileia
Literal meaning
kingship, royal rule, kingdom; kingdom, dominion, reign
Key Scripture(s)
Daniel 2:44; Matthew 4:17; Matthew 6:10,33; Luke 17:20-21; Colossians 1:13; Revelation 11:15
Theological Significance
The kingdom theme gathers the Bible's storyline of God's reign, promise, Messiah, and consummation. In Christ the kingdom is already inaugurated, yet its fullness awaits His return.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
The kingdom is not merely an inward feeling, a political program, or only a future realm. Scripture presents God's reign as already present in Christ and not yet consummated.
Practical Application
Kingdom teaching calls believers to submit to Christ's rule now, pray for His reign to spread, and live in hope of its final appearing.