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Submitted: Aug 09 2011 04:18 PM
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Author: Vos, Geerhardus
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

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Author:
Vos, Geerhardus

e-Sword Version:
9.x - 10.x

The Teaching of Jesus Concerning The Kingdom of God

by Geerhardus Vos(1862-1949)

The following text by Vos was originally printed in 1903 by the American Tract Society under the full title, The Teaching of Jesus Concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church. Only five of the original eleven chapters are available in this on-line edition (more will be made available at a later date). This material is now in the public domain and may be freely copied and distributed. It was scanned and edited by Shane Rosenthal for Reformation Ink. Original pagination has been retained for purposes of reference.
　
Table of Contents

Chapter I: Introduction
Chapter II: The Kingdom & the Old Testament
Chapter III: Kingdom & Kingship. The Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven
Chapter IV: The Present & Future Kingdom
Chapter V: Current Misconceptions Regarding the Present & Future Kingdoms

Synopsis of The Kingdom of God by Geerhardus Vos

The Kingdom of God by Geerhardus Vos is a profound theological exploration of the biblical doctrine of the kingdom of God, emphasizing its centrality to Scripture and Christian life. Vos, a renowned Reformed theologian, approaches the subject with a scholarly rigor rooted in biblical exegesis, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the kingdom’s nature, scope, and significance.

At the heart of the book is the assertion that the kingdom of God is the overarching theme of Scripture, woven through both Old and New Testaments. Vos contends that the kingdom is not merely an eschatological future event but a present spiritual reality that begins with God's sovereign reign over creation and extends through His redemptive work in history.

Vos explores the biblical language surrounding the kingdom, highlighting terms like malkuth (Hebrew) and basileia (Greek), which emphasize God's sovereignty and kingship. He clarifies that the kingdom of God transcends political or earthly realms, focusing instead on God's rule over all creation and His people. The kingdom manifests in various ways—through God's covenant relationship with Israel, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the church.

A significant part of Vos's analysis is the distinction between the "already" and the "not yet" aspects of the kingdom. The kingdom has been inaugurated through Christ’s first coming, establishing a spiritual reign that believers now participate in. However, the fullness of the kingdom awaits Christ’s return and the consummation of God's redemptive plan. This dual aspect underscores the tension in Christian life—believers are called to live in the present reality of God's reign while looking forward to its complete fulfillment.

Vos emphasizes that the kingdom of God is primarily a spiritual kingdom, centered on the reign of God in the hearts of believers. It is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. The kingdom’s spiritual nature does not exclude any physical or societal dimensions, but it is rooted in the transformation of individual hearts and communities through the gospel.

The book also discusses the relationship between the kingdom and the church, noting that the church is both a sign and a foretaste of the coming kingdom. While the church is a visible institution, its true significance lies in its role as the community of those who submit to God's kingship.

Vos further examines the eschatological aspects, emphasizing that Christ’s second coming will bring about the final establishment of God's kingdom in all its fullness—where justice, righteousness, and peace will reign unchallenged. He highlights the importance of Christian hope and obedience as responses to the promise of this future reality.

Throughout, Vos maintains a consistent biblical and theological perspective, seeking to deepen the reader’s understanding of the kingdom of God as the central motif of Scripture that shapes Christian doctrine, worship, and life. His work underscores the kingdom’s significance not only as a future hope but as a present reality that transforms believers and guides their mission in the world.