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The Broad and Narrow Kingdom

1. CONNECT

   10min
   “When the kingdom comes …” is a phrase that Christians often use. Most of us know that somehow it must be an important idea. But what exactly does it mean? In this session, we’ll explore two interrelated ways the Scriptures refer to God’s reign or kingdom. We must keep both of these outlooks in mind as we study the kingdom of God in the Old Testament.

2. Reflection

   If someone were to ask you, “What is the kingdom of God?” would you know how to answer? Would you be able to explain how important the kingdom is in biblical faith? And what does the Bible say about it? Broadly speaking, God’s kingdom is his universal and unchanging reign over all of creation. But more narrowly, it is his incomplete and developing reign on earth.

3. Guiding Question

   What do you think of when you hear the phrase, “kingdom of God”?

4. WATCH

   15min

5. DISCUSS

   15min
   1. Read Psalm 93:1-2. How long has the Lord reigned as King? How much longer will he reign?
   2. In a broad sense, what does it mean when we say that God’s rule is complete and unchanging?
   3. In a narrow sense, how is God’s kingdom or rule incomplete and developing in history?
   4. What did Jesus mean in Matthew 6:9-10 when he taught us to pray for the coming of the kingdom?

6. APPLY

   15min
   1. God always has been and always will be the supreme Sovereign so that all of creation always has been and always will be his kingdom. How does this fact encourage us as we face troubles and disappointments in our lives?
   2. Discuss this statement from our lesson: “The Son of God longed for the day when God’s universal and unchanging kingship would be fully manifested on earth. On that day, God’s glory will fill the earth and every creature will obey his commands as perfectly on earth as they do in heaven. This vision of history undergirds every teaching in the Old and New Testaments.” Read Matthew 6:33. How crucial should this future vision of God’s kingdom be in your life?

7. CHALLENGE

   Take some time to answer the following question: How does knowing that God is bringing his kingdom to earth help you set the priorities and choices of your daily life? Finish with a time of prayer.