I want to talk about Father God's kingdom—and share my belief that you and I are invited to live in it today.
In the Bible, especially in the book of Acts, we read about the early church. This first community of believers was founded on the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) and held together by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.
Luke, a physician and close companion of the Apostle Paul, is traditionally believed to have written both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. His detail-oriented nature made him well-suited to record these events accurately and thoughtfully.
In Acts 1:1–11, Luke describes the risen Jesus speaking with His followers about the kingdom of God. He instructs them to wait in Jerusalem for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Then, before their eyes, He ascends into heaven—leaving them with the promise that He will return the same way.
This early Church was not simply an organization—it was a Spirit-formed body of believers.
- Their identity was rooted in who Yeshua is and what He accomplished for us.
- The Holy Spirit, promised by the Father, became their helper—teaching them, empowering them, and uniting them in love and purpose, just as Yeshua prayed in John 17:11: “that they may be one as we are one.”
- Entrance into this community began with repentance and baptism, as Peter declared in Acts 2:38–39: “Repent and be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
- These believers were devoted to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They shared their possessions, lived in unity, and praised God daily (Acts 2:42–47).
I've been reflecting deeply on this picture of the early Church, especially as I grow older. For much of my life, I’ve lived independently—doing things on my own, relying on my own strength. Family has helped at times, and for larger tasks I’ve hired assistance, though not always with satisfaction.
Now in my late 70s, I'm more aware than ever of the importance of true community. And despite being in church for most of my life, I don't believe I've ever been part of a fellowship that fully mirrors the Acts church—where the Holy Spirit knits believers together in unity, and God's authority, not man's, leads the way.
Jeremiah 9:24 reminds us what truly matters:
"Let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the Lord.
Being part of God’s kingdom is a serious calling—not to be entered into lightly. Think about what Yeshua endured on our behalf: the sinless one, crucified for us, fulfilling prophecy, rising on the third day, and appearing to many before ascending. All of this was done so we might be forgiven and restored to the Father.
Lately, I’ve been thinking more about this kingdom in light of the troubling direction I see in today’s world. What we’re witnessing from political leaders—such as President Trump and his administration—reminds me of the rise of oppressive regimes in history, like Nazi Germany in the 1930s. Many people are fearful of what the future holds.
But in God’s kingdom, fear has no place. Who is more powerful than God? When we live under His rule—trusting in His righteousness, justice, and mercy—we can find peace even in uncertain times.
