In regards to the 1000 years. It is an area that many people stumble over. Do we take it literally or not? If a person were to believe in a literal 1000 year period that the earth will be ruled over, then they have to believe that the Kingdom of God is a real governement with Jesus as its King, ruling over the earth.
Those who believe that the Kingdom is a condition in the heart take the stand that it cannot be literal, because that contradicts their basic belief in the Kingdom. So the real question should be: Is the Kingdom of God a real government? (see my earlier post on this: exchange2000.com )
Now that we established that it is and there is no reason that we should not take the 1000 years literally, what will that government do during that 1000 years:
Sanctify God's name and uphold his sovereignty Matt 6:9.10; Ezek 38 23
Put an end to Satan's tolerated rulership over the world Rev 20:2,3
Unify all creation in worship of the one true God Rev 5:13; 15:3,4
Bring mankind back into harmonious relationship with God Rom 8:19-21
Free mankind from all threat of war Ps 46:8,9; Isa 2:4
Rid the earth of corrupt rulers and oppression Ps 110:5; Ps 72:12-14
Provide an abundance of food for all mankind Ps 72:16; Isa 25:6
Remove sickness and disabilities of all kinds Luke 7:22; 9:11
Provide suitable homes for everyone Isa 65:21,22
Assure satisfying employment for all Isa 65:23
Guarantee security, freedom from danger to one's person or property Micah 4:4; Ps 37:10,11
Cause righteousness and justice to prevail 2 Peter 3:13; Isa. 11:3-5
Safeguard mankind from any injury due to natual forces Matt 4:37-41
Resurrect the dead John 5:28,29; Rev 20:12
Remove all death due to inferitence of Adamic sin Isa 25:8; Rev 21:4
Provide a world in which people genuinely love one another John 13:35
Bring animals and humans into harmonious relationship with one another Isa 11:6-9; Hos. 2:18
Make the earth a paradise Luke 23:43; Ps 98:7-9;Gen 1:28; 2:15; Isaiah 55:11
Only a real government, perfect heavenly government can do these things. No man made government has even come close. Jesus is a real King who has legions of angels at his command. His Kingship has God's backing and the scriptures clearly show that his rule would start in the midst of his enemies. |
