The Two Kingdoms.

The concept of Christ’s kingdom has been a focal point of theological discourse throughout church history. In the Gospel of John, Jesus declares to Pontius Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36, ESV), a statement that has sparked extensive contemplation regarding the nature of His reign. Conversely, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus asserts, “For behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Luke 17:21, ESV), suggesting an immediate and present reality. This apparent paradox invites a deeper exploration into the dual dimensions of Christ’s kingdom—a spiritual dominion transcending earthly realms and a transformative presence within the believer’s life.

This topic is important in evangelical theology as it influences our understanding of the Church’s role in the world, the believer’s engagement with secular society, and the anticipation of God’s ultimate redemptive plan. By examining these scriptures and their theological ramifications, we can better understand how Christ’s twofold reign operates and its implications for contemporary Christian practice.

Exegetical Analysis

John 18:36—A Kingdom Not of This World

In John 18:36, Jesus responds to Pilate’s inquiry about His kingship: “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world” (ESV). The Greek term for “world” here is κόσμος (kosmos), which commonly refers to the present, fallen world system opposed to God’s righteousness.

The phrase “not of this world” (οὐκ ἔστιν ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου, ouk estin ek tou kosmou toutou) emphasizes the origin and nature of Christ’s kingdom. The preposition ἐκ (ek) denotes source or origin, indicating that His kingdom does not arise from worldly systems or authorities. This kingdom is qualitatively different, rooted in divine authority and eternal purpose.

Furthermore, the term “servants” (ὑπηρέται, hypēretai) implies attendants or officers who carry out a ruler’s commands. Jesus points out that if His kingdom were earthly, His followers would engage in physical combat to prevent His arrest, aligning with worldly methods of power and control. Instead, His submission to arrest demonstrates the spiritual nature of His mission.

Luke 17:21—The Kingdom in the Midst

In Luke 17:21, Jesus addresses the Pharisees’ question about the coming of the kingdom of God: “Nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (ESV). The Greek phrase ἐντὸς ὑμῶν (entos hymōn) has been variously translated as “within you” or “in your midst.”

The term ἐντός (entos) can mean “inside” or “among.” Given that Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees—who were often resistant to His message—the rendering “in your midst” is contextually appropriate. It signifies that the kingdom is present through Jesus Himself and the works He performs. The kingdom is not a distant future event but has arrived in the person and ministry of Christ.

Etymological Insights

Understanding the original language deepens our comprehension of these passages. The word for “kingdom” in both instances is βασιλεία (basileia), denoting not just a realm but the reign or rule of a king. Thus, the focus is on actively exercising kingship rather than a geographical territory.

In John 18:36, the term for “delivered over” is παραδίδομαι (paradidomai), meaning to be handed over or betrayed. This word carries judicial connotations, highlighting the injustice of Jesus’ trial and the voluntary nature of His sacrifice within God’s sovereign plan.

Theological Discussion

The Dual Nature of Christ’s Kingdom

The juxtaposition of these passages reveals a dual aspect of Christ’s kingdom—transcendent yet immanent, spiritual yet influential in the temporal realm. Evangelical theology recognizes that while Christ’s reign originates from beyond this world, it actively permeates human history and personal lives.

The Spiritual Kingdom

The spiritual kingdom refers to God’s sovereign rule over the hearts and spirits of believers. As Jesus indicated, this kingdom is “not of this world” (John 18:36, ESV) because it does not conform to worldly power structures or methods. It is established through Christ’s redemptive work, transforming individuals from within.

The Apostle Paul echoes this in Colossians 1:13: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son” (ESV). This transfer denotes a spiritual relocation from the bondage of sin to the freedom of Christ’s lordship.

The Temporal Kingdom

While the spiritual kingdom is paramount, Christ’s reign also has temporal implications. The presence of the kingdom “in the midst” (Luke 17:21, ESV) suggests that God’s rule affects societal structures and cultural contexts through the lives of believers. The mustard seed and leaven parables in Matthew 13:31–33 illustrate the kingdom’s permeating influence, starting small yet growing to encompass significant impact.

Moreover, Revelation 11:15 proclaims, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever” (ESV), pointing to the ultimate unification of the spiritual and temporal realms under Christ’s lordship.

Implications for Believers

Understanding the two kingdoms shapes the believer’s approach to worldly engagement. Christians are called to live as dual citizens—faithful to God’s spiritual kingdom while responsibly participating in earthly societies.

Holiness and Separation

Believers are to distinguish themselves from worldly values that oppose God’s commands. As Jesus prayed for His disciples, “They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world” (John 17:16, ESV). This separation is not physical withdrawal but a commitment to holiness amidst a secular context.

Engagement and Influence

Simultaneously, Christians are commissioned to positively influence the temporal realm. Jesus describes His followers as “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–14, ESV), metaphors that imply preservation and illumination within society.

The Role of the Church

The Church embodies Christ’s kingdom on earth, advancing His reign through the proclamation of the Gospel and acts of service. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20 underscores this mandate: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (ESV).

Counterarguments and Alternate Interpretations

Some theological perspectives argue for a purely future kingdom, emphasizing eschatological fulfillment over present reality. Others advocate for a realized eschatology, suggesting that the kingdom’s fullness is entirely accessible now. However, the evangelical stance typically balances these views, acknowledging the “already but not yet” tension of the kingdom’s manifestation.

Influence of Renowned Theologians

John Calvin articulated the concept of the two kingdoms by distinguishing between the spiritual government of the soul and the civil government of society. In his Institutes of the Christian Religion, Calvin writes, “There is a twofold government in man; one aspect is spiritual… the second is political” (Calvin, 1559/1960, Book IV, Chapter 20).

Martin Luther also contributed significantly to this doctrine. He posited that God rules the spiritual kingdom through the Gospel and the temporal kingdom through law and civil authority. Luther emphasized that Christians live in both kingdoms and must honor their responsibilities in each.

Conclusion

The exploration of John 18:36 and Luke 17:21 reveals the intricate nature of Christ’s twofold kingdom—an otherworldly and presently active reign. This duality informs the believer’s identity and mission, calling for a life that reflects heavenly values while engaging earthly realities.

Understanding the two kingdoms encourages Christians to navigate the complexities of secular society without compromising their spiritual allegiance. It provides a framework for participating in cultural, political, and social spheres with discernment and integrity, guided by the principles of God’s eternal kingdom.

Ultimately, the two kingdoms converge in the person of Jesus Christ, who reigns supreme over all creation. The believer’s hope rests in the assurance that God’s redemptive plan encompasses both the spiritual restoration of individuals and the eventual renewal of all things under His sovereign rule.