The concept of “Kingdom Tension” refers to living between Jesus’s first coming and His eventual return. As believers, we are called to live purposefully in this tension while serving as God’s representatives on earth.
What is the Kingdom of God?
The Kingdom of God isn’t a physical place – it’s the rule and reign of God. When Jesus came, He inaugurated this kingdom, though not in the way people expected. Rather than establishing political dominion, Jesus came to save humanity from their real enemy – sin and death.
Understanding the Now and Not Yet
We live in a unique time period between Jesus’s first arrival and His future return. While God’s kingdom is present now through His Spirit and His people, we await its full manifestation. This creates a tension where we experience God’s presence while longing for His complete reign.
What Does It Mean to Be Salt and Light?
Jesus calls His followers to be “salt of the earth” and “light of the world.” In ancient times, salt was crucial as a preservative – it kept things alive and had enduring qualities. As salt, we’re called to preserve and enhance the world around us. As light, we’re meant to illuminate God’s truth and love to others.
Our Role as a Royal Priesthood
Scripture describes believers as a “royal priesthood” – chosen people who serve as God’s representatives. This role involves:
Being God’s portable presence in the world
Serving as living temples of the Holy Spirit
Carrying Jesus’s presence wherever we go
Making disciples and bringing others to know God
The Church’s Mission of “One More”
Every believer has a purpose in God’s kingdom. Our primary mission is to bring “one more” lost child back to the Father. This happens through:
Building authentic relationships
Showing God’s love to others
Living as new creation people
Serving others as Jesus did
Life Application
This week, consider how you can live out your role as salt and light in your daily life. Ask yourself:
How am I preserving and enhancing the lives of those around me?
In what ways am I reflecting God’s light to others?
Who is my “one more” that I can help draw closer to God?
Challenge: Identify three specific ways you can be “salty” this week – whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply being present for someone in need. Remember, you are God’s portable presence wherever you go.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
