My Kingdom is not of this world: Bible for November 29, 2006

In this last Sunday before Advent, our gospel reading switches from Mark to John – perhaps to summarize the point Mark has been working so hard to make clear: Jesus insists that his kingdom is not of this world. Pastor Sharon shared some outstanding insights from Disclosing New Worlds during her sermon last Sunday. I encourage you to read that post – click here.

The nature of the Kingdom of God is an issue of urgent importance. Its implications are huge, and right-now practical.

For instance: Much of the American Christian Right wants U.S. government to give nearly unqualified support to Israel. Here’s why: Most believe in an end-times outlook (popularized by the Left Behind novels) that sees the nation of Israel as the instrument through which Jesus Christ will establish his kingdom on earth.

Is that his plan?

For instance: It’s common in America to hear the phrase “for God and Country.”