The "Already/Not Yet" Tension of the Kingdom
The Kingdom of God, a central theme throughout the Scriptures, presents believers with a profound theological paradox: it is both a present reality and a future hope. This dynamic tension, often referred to as the "already/not yet" of the Kingdom, shapes our understanding of Christian life, discipleship, and eschatology. It acknowledges that while Christ has inaugurated His reign and established His Kingdom through His first advent, its full consummation and visible manifestation are still awaiting His glorious return. Navigating this tension is crucial for a balanced and Biblically sound perspective, empowering believers to live faithfully in the present while eagerly anticipating the future.
The "Already" Aspect: The Kingdom Inaugurated
The "already" aspect of the Kingdom signifies that with the first coming of Jesus Christ, the Kingdom of God broke into human history in an unprecedented way. Jesus Himself declared its presence, stating, "But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you." Luke 11:20. His miracles, His teachings, and His ultimate victory over sin and death on the cross were undeniable proofs of His sovereign authority and the establishment of His spiritual reign. For those who believe, the Kingdom is not merely a distant concept but a present, transformative power.
Believers are described as having been translated into this present Kingdom. The Apostle Paul writes:
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
This translation means a change of dominion, a shift from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of light. The Holy Spirit, given to believers, is the down payment and seal of this present reality, empowering us to live according to Kingdom principles. The Kingdom is within us, influencing our hearts and minds, as Christ Himself declared:
The Kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
Furthermore, the Kingdom is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, as articulated in Romans 14:17. We are called to live as citizens of this present Kingdom, manifesting its values and spreading its influence through our lives and the proclamation of the Gospel. We are seated in heavenly places with Christ, indicative of our present spiritual standing and authority within His Kingdom. Ephesians 2:6.
The "Not Yet" Aspect: The Kingdom Consummated
While the Kingdom of God has been inaugurated, it has not yet been fully consummated. There remains a future, glorious manifestation when Christ returns to establish His perfect and visible reign over all the earth. This "not yet" aspect is evident in the prayers of believers throughout history, who continue to pray, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:10. This prayer acknowledges that the full realization of God's will and Kingdom purposes on earth is still a future event.
The "not yet" speaks to the future eradication of all evil, suffering, and death. While believers experience victory over sin's dominion now, sin's presence and effects are still felt in the world and, at times, within our own lives. The creation itself groans, awaiting its redemption and the full revelation of the sons of God. The Apostle Paul describes this longing:
For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
The consummation of the Kingdom will involve the physical resurrection of believers, the judgment of the wicked, and the ushering in of the new heavens and new earth, where righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3:13. This is the ultimate hope of the believer, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more sorrow, pain, or death. Revelation 21:1-4. At that time, Christ will deliver up the Kingdom to God, even the Father, having put down all rule and all authority and power, and death itself will be swallowed up in victory. 1 Corinthians 15:24-26. This future hope fuels our perseverance and anchors our faith amidst present trials.
Living in the Tension: Discipleship and Hope
Understanding the "already/not yet" tension is not merely an academic exercise; it has profound implications for how we live our lives as followers of Christ. It calls us to a dynamic existence, characterized by both present responsibility and future hope.
Practical Implications:
- Discipleship: We are called to live now as citizens of heaven, embodying Kingdom values like justice, mercy, and humility. Our lives should reflect the reign of Christ, even amidst a fallen world. This means pursuing holiness, engaging in acts of service, and striving for righteousness, knowing that the Spirit within us empowers us to do so. Our present actions contribute to the advancement of His Kingdom, even if its full glory is yet to be revealed.
- Evangelism: The "already" aspect compels us to proclaim the good news that the Kingdom has come and salvation is available. The "not yet" aspect motivates us to warn of the coming judgment and the need for repentance before Christ's return. We are ambassadors for Christ, pleading with others to be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20.
- Suffering and Perseverance: The "not yet" helps us make sense of suffering and injustice in the world. We experience tribulations because the Kingdom is not yet fully consummated, and evil still has a temporary foothold. This understanding allows us to endure with hope, knowing that our ultimate redemption is secure and that God will eventually right all wrongs. We walk by faith, not by sight, holding fast to the promises of God. 2 Corinthians 5:7.
- Hope and Anticipation: The "not yet" fuels our hope for the future. It prevents us from becoming complacent or overly attached to the things of this world. Our true citizenship is in heaven, from whence we also look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on God's faithfulness.
Living in this tension means we are engaged in spiritual warfare, knowing that Christ has already won the decisive victory, but the enemy still wages skirmishes. We are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts and resources God has given us, investing them for His Kingdom purposes, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58.
Conclusion
The "already/not yet" tension of the Kingdom of God is a profound and practical truth that shapes the entirety of Christian experience. It challenges us to embrace the present reality of Christ's reign in our hearts and lives, while simultaneously living with a fervent anticipation for His glorious return and the full consummation of His perfect Kingdom. It calls us to live as faithful citizens of a heavenly Kingdom that has broken into the earthly realm, yet is still destined for a complete and visible manifestation. By holding these two truths in balance, believers are equipped to navigate the complexities of life with unwavering hope, steadfast purpose, and a deep understanding of God's overarching plan for redemption and restoration. This tension is not a contradiction but a dynamic framework for understanding God's progressive work in history and His ultimate triumph.