During the recent election season there was a sentiment repeated by many Christians about how “thankful we are that we are members of another kingdom.”
In other words, “I expect to be disappointed by our political leaders, but I remain confident in and committed to the kingdom of Christ.”
This is a healthy, biblical perspective. Our political confidence should be tempered by our understanding of human depravity. And our confidence in the kingdom of God should be reinforced by our understanding of who we know God to be.
But how is this sought-after kingdom realized? And, what is our role—if any—in participating in its expansion? Are we as Christians simply on the sidelines, or perhaps in the grandstands? Or are we on the field, engaged in the actual nitty-gritty of its work?
Reading a book like Paul’s letter to the Ephesians we should remember that he wrote it to ordinary Christians like you and me in a local church. They doubtless read it together and talked about how to apply it. Upon reading the first chapter believers would have their chins raised to see the big picture of the kingdom of God and the role of the church in it. Reminding them of the powerful resurrection of Christ, Paul shows them that Jesus is exalted as King over every ruler not only of that age but also every age to come (Eph. 1:201-21)! What’s more, he is the head of the church, which is the expression of his kingdom rule in this world (Eph. 1:22-23).
In other words, Jesus the exalted King, above every authority in every age, expresses and advances his kingdom rule through the church. This is staggering to consider.
Well, how does he do this?
In the fourth chapter of the letter he shows us that he has given gifts to the church (Eph. 4:7). A bit later he shows that some of those gifts include the offices of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and shepherd-teachers (Eph. 4:11). Using similar language to chapter one we read a statement of purpose in verse 10, “that he might fill all things.” This work of Christ is intentionally geared to his glorious kingdom.
When we think of the kingdom of Christ we might be tempted to think of some demonstrations of great power. Perhaps we might even think of some type of miraculous showing like special effects in a movie. But what we find in Ephesians 4 is something different. We are shocked; but the shock is not because of how extraordinary this is but how ordinary it is.
Here’s the gist of it: God gifts ordinary people to preach and teach the Bible. The hearers of this Word are also ordinary people with spiritual gifts. Through the teaching of the Word they are equipped—built up, restored, refurbished—and then set loose to serve in accordance with their gifting in and through the church. Through this cycle of service (directed and shaped by the Word) the church grows in maturity, unity, and love. In short: we become more like Jesus (Eph. 4:11-16). There is great power expressed here, but not like most would expect.
The kingdom of God advances through the expression of the King’s gifts to the church. When working properly the church matures and Christ takes ground in the hearts of men and in the world.
This is truly amazing.
This gives you and me a tremendous sense of purpose, responsibility, and clarity. We as Christians in general and you as members of your local church in particular, in the grand scheme of things—have an important role. Far from being simply in the grandstands passively participating in things, we as members of our local church are in the game, so to speak, active participants in the work of the kingdom.
Therefore, it is important for us to remember that while the truth of the kingdom of God consoles us during turbulent times, it also compels us to work faithfully in and through our local churches. It is here, after all, that the King shows forth his glorious power and wisdom (Eph. 1:20-22, 3:10).
