Dear friend, we have much to learn about the Messiah’s kingdom. In Scripture “kingdom” often means “rule” or “reign.” To say, “The kingdom of heaven is near!” is like saying, “Heaven will reign very soon!” God, of course, has always reigned from heaven (Psalm 10 and Psalm 103). “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, …endures throughout all generations” (Psalm 145:13). God already rules over all, whether people repent or not. Why do John and Jesus speak as if heaven’s kingdom is now coming? Why do they require repentance for it? And what has this to do with a new birth into God’s kingdom?
Ancient prophets pointed ahead to God reigning in a new and special way. In this kingdom God would save, protect and live with His people – all through His chosen King-Messiah. One prophet even set the time for the kingdom to begin (Daniel 2,9). Now Jesus declares,
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel (Mark 1:15).
Literally, the time has been “filled” or “fulfilled!” The prophecies are coming true: God is arriving with His saving reign! Nicodemus stands at the crossroad of history. As Jesus unfolds kingdom truth, He presents a choice between life and death: “Children of the kingdom” are saved; “sons of the evil one” are destroyed (Matthew 13). All seeking refuge in God’s kingdom must first prepare their hearts through faith and repentance. The King firmly requires this new attitude:
Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3-4).
A child is open to learning and changing. A child is dependent and receives correction. Over the years, however, ‘adult’ sins of pride and prejudice harden us. It is time, dear friend, to return to the humble, yielding attitude of childhood. If we do not, there is no hope for us.
“Unless you repent, you too will all perish” (Luke 13:3).
But what is the meaning of this command, “repent”?