Q31 What parallel language is used of the Christian kingdom of God?
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 1 Peter 2:9,10.
Q32 How do the members of the kingdom of God view themselves in this world?
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 1 Peter 2:11
Q33 What will be the final commendation and reward of God and to whom?
Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. Revelation 14:12
NOTE: To ‘keep’ can mean to observe, but also to keep safe, which was God’s original purpose in giving His oracles to the children of Israel.
Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Revelation 22:14
And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. Daniel 7:27
Q34 How does God again confirm the everlasting covenant for all time?
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. Revelation 21:7
NOTE: Jacob was an overcomer as he wrestled with the angel. The children of Israel were not overcomers, but Christ came. He declared, ‘Not my will but thine be done’. Luke 22:42. The early Christians who were made up of both Jews and Gentiles were also overcomers. They were prepared to lay down their lives for the glory and honour of God. ‘He that overcometh shall inherit all things’. Revelation 21:7. This was ever the promise of the covenant made first to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, later to the children of Israel, then in Christ, with whom faithful Christians of all races, are joint heirs (Romans 8:17), believing in Him, following in His steps and enduring to the end.
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