The New Kingdom.1

"Since the time of John the Baptiser until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and great is the number that eagerly, and in desperation, have seized hold of its truth."

--Jesus

Forcefully advancing.

Like a CEO detailing his company's place in the market, Jesus gives his assessment of the Kingdom of Heaven Enterprise launched at his baptism by John. And as he reflects on the great number of people freed of various diseases, demons exposed and evicted, emotional/spiritual wounds healed and sin eradicated, he sums up their efforts as "forceful advancement." In the clash of light vs darkness, light is winning!

Each victory over the devil's devices serves a dual purpose: to bring heaven's wholeness to individuals and reveal heaven's purposes to His team.

If you haven't had the chance to watch the TV series, The Chosen, I highly recommend it. Dallas Jenkins, son of Jerry Jenkins co-author of the Left Behind series, has done a convincing job, within the limitations of a camera lens, of creating the turbulent world of humanity into which the Son of Man entered. Rich characters such as rascally Simon Peter, on the precipice of disaster over tax problems, Matthew tax collector, a germophobe with slightly autistic characteristics, Thomas, ever the fretful doubter, Nicodemus wrestling with the

deeper truths of God while trying to maintain his vaunted position as "Israel's teacher of the Law." Roman occupation, political intrigue, demonic possession, family spats, debilitating diseases, theological disputes, racism and all the things humans struggle with daily. In the midst of the milieu: 

miracles, freedom, peace, hope, joy, laughter, friendship, love and light and truth.

Who wouldn't clamor for, in eagerness and desperation, seize hold of that truth?

"The human race groans for deliverance: how much does the race know that its redemption lies in becoming one with the Father, and partaking of His glory?" -George MacDonald

In today's equally swirling milieu of political intrigue, demonic possession, massive deception, family spats, debilitating diseases, racism and all the things humans continue to struggle with on a daily basis let us remember that we still serve the King who's Kingdom will continue to forcefully advance the things humans still clamor for and in desperation will seize hold of. As for us, our part in this advancement is fairly simple according to brother Peter: "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."

--1 Peter 3:15 (ESV)