📖 How is God’s Kingdom Both Here and Not Yet Here?

It has to do with Jesus’ return

September 15, 2025 ‱ Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

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How is God’s Kingdom Both Here and Not Yet Here?

In Mark 1:15, John the Baptist says:

“The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” 

Then in Luke 22:18, Jesus says this:

“For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 

So, what’s going on?

Did John have it wrong? Was he too excited?

I don’t think so.

Instead, I believe these verses touch on an important reality of God’s Kingdom - the fact that it’s present, but not fully.

The Kingdom is Now

Alright, so maybe this language of “Kingdom of God” is a bit foreign to you, so I’ll explain that first.

The Kingdom of God is basically the place where God’s perfect rule and Way of life reigns supreme.

In that case, you might say: “Clearly John had it wrong, all you need to do is look at the news.”

And you’d be right, but not entirely.

Because even though God’s rule isn’t accepted on a global scale, you can still find places where it’s followed.

You know ‘em, you love ‘em - churches.

The Church, though flawed, is built on God’s Way of life. Doesn’t matter if you’re Catholic, Presbyterian, or part of Free Life Victory Church (or any variant thereof).

Interpretations may vary, but the essence remains.

This is the present Kingdom John and other New Testament figures spoke of.

Jesus showed up, was a perfect sacrifice for sin, and was resurrected. By receiving Jesus’ work and following His example, we can live in the reality of His Kingdom here and now.

The story of the Bible, leading to Jesus’ death and resurrection.

But there’s another element, too.

The Kingdom Not Yet

When Jesus famously said, “It is finished,” He was speaking of His work in making reconciliation between man and God possible.

But there’s still more.

The reconciliation part is taken care of (thank God!), but, as we just established, the Kingdom only exists through the Church (and even we get it wrong most of the time).

But that’s just the start of the process.

The Church reminds us of a beauty (and Kingdom) yet to come.

The Kingdom is partly here, but the fullness of God’s reign on Earth is yet to come.

And when will it come?

When He returns.

So join us this week as we explore the Second Coming of Jesus, one of the most integral components of our faith and future hope.

It’s gonna be good.

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

Theophilus Newsletter

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