Going “all in!” There is a rush of adrenaline when putting everything on the line, and this phrase extends well beyond cards. Such a move can be questioned as foolish and rash because everything could be lost… but what if you win? What if it’s a sure thing? God makes an “all in” comparison of the Kingdom to an investment: “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells everything that he has, and buys that field” (Matt. 13:44 NASB throughout). This investor sees the value and sells everything he owns to have this treasure. The same “gamble” of the hidden treasure is dealt to all of us. Those who follow suit with the exchange find satisfaction.
Previous studies on the meaning of the word “kingdom” demonstrate that it means “government.” Many are looking to their governments for help. Human governments are limited in their ability and wisdom to solve the complex issues and sort through the tangled desires of broken people. The more people look for governmental help, the less help they seek from the Lord. “My help comes from the Lord” (Ps. 121:2).
The Bible gives many warnings about trusting in the world. “Do not love the world nor the things in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15). “The world is passing away and also its lusts” (1 Jn. 2:17). Our focus and attention should not be hijacked. Our hope and joy is in Jesus, and we look to His coming reign. “Do not trust in noblemen, in mortal man, in whom there is no salvation” (Ps. 146:3). “Even wise people die; The foolish and the stupid alike perish” (Ps. 49:10). The Kingdom of God can and will right all the wrongs and set the quarrels straight. His rule is the answer to all our world needs.
The Kingdom (government) of Israel during Old Testament times is a fascinating study. Israel had a taste of greatness whenever they were ruled by God’s judges, but that changed under Samuel. The nation said, “You have grown old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the nations” (1 Sam. 8:5). Samuel outlined all the negative outcomes a king would introduce (1 Sam. 8:10-18), but they did not care about the consequences of leaving God’s leadership! “They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being King over them” (1 Sam. 8:7). God gave them over to their request to be like the nations around them. Considering the unrest and disagreements surrounding politics and government highlights for believers the ultimate answer: God setting the record straight and reigning.
King Rehoboam’s departure from God brought many consequences for his people (2 Chronicles 12). Shishak, king of Egypt, led powerful attacks against Rehoboam, and Israel became Shishak’s slaves, “so that they may learn the difference between [God’s] service and the service of the kingdoms of the countries” (2 Chron. 12: 7-8). There is a huge difference between following the Lord and having His leadership and following men. King David also learned this lesson many times over. God offered a choice of punishment to David for taking a census of the army: famine, being given over to his enemies, or the Lord’s destroying sword.”David said to Gad, ‘I am in great distress; please let me fall into the hands of the Lord, for His mercies are very great. But do not let me fall into human hands’” (1 Chron. 21:12-13). He knew the Lord was merciful and to be trusted.
Governmental power given to selfish individuals brings unintended evils. Consider the Roman government killing the innocent Jesus, or the numerous prophets killed by the nation of Israel. Historically, power-hungry leaders caused the martyrdom of many Christians. Conversely, the Creator of the Universe said, “I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-29).
There is a day coming when the prayer “Your Kingdom come” (Matt. 6:10) will be answered, and the world will experience the perfect government.
There is a day coming when the prayer “Your Kingdom come” (Matt. 6:10) will be answered, and the world will experience the perfect government. “The government will rest on His shoulders” (Isa. 9:6). “There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace” (Isa. 9:7). God’s government cannot be changed by sin and death; it is not of this world. Righteousness and truth will spring from the earth. God’s hand will reach into all avenues of life, and the leadership will directly answer to Him. Jesus will proclaim justice to the nations (Matt. 12:18-21). “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of [His] throne” (Ps. 89:14). He will rightly judge the thoughts and intents of the heart. He will bring an end to iniquity, set up righteous leadership, feed the world, bring peace, and eliminate war. No one will fight against God’s kingdom and prevail for it will rule from within men (Luke 18), as well as from without.
As we consider the world’s leadership, we may get depressed, anxious, or frightened, but let disappointment and need keep our eyes on the joyous relief found in Christ and His coming Kingdom. “Prepare your minds for action… set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13) “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). When we weigh the truths of God’s kingdom let us be like the “merchant seeking fine pearls, and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold everything that he had and bought it” (Matt. 13:45-46). God’s government is a guaranteed “bet.” Let us celebrate our winning, windfall hand together.
Andrew Brown
December 2020
All Approved Workmen 