Imagine a world where the rules of the land are set not by popular vote, but by the unchanging will of a sovereign King. In a kingdom, the constitution is not a social contract made by the people—it’s a royal contract, crafted solely by the King for His citizens. This distinction sets a kingdom apart from any democratic system. In a democracy, the contract originates with the people; in a kingdom, it begins and ends with the King.
A Contract Written by the King
When we look at the Kingdom of Heaven, we see this royal contract in action. God, our King, established His Kingdom with clear conditions long before mankind stepped onto the stage. Consider the story of Adam. Before Adam ever set foot in the Garden of Eden, God had already drawn up the rules:
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image…’” (Genesis 1:26-28)
Once created, Adam was simply given the contract—to work, to care for the garden, and to obey God’s command not to eat from a specific tree (Genesis 2:15-17). There was no negotiation; the terms were set by God, and Adam’s role was to live within those parameters.
This approach is also evident in the contract God made with Abraham. God declared His intentions and promises unilaterally:
“Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you… I will make you into a great nation…” (Genesis 12:1-3)
Again, the contract was presented complete, with God laying out His plan for Abraham and his descendants. It’s a clear reminder: in the Kingdom of Heaven, the King’s word is law.
The Constitution of a Kingdom
In any kingdom, the constitution is more than just a set of rules—it is the expression of the King’s will. Unlike a democratic constitution where citizens contribute to its formation, a kingdom’s constitution is a document of the King’s desires and commands. In our case, this document is the Bible, which we can think of as the written testament of God’s will for humanity.
This royal contract:
- Defines the relationship: It’s a contract made by the King for His citizens, outlining what He will do for them and what is expected of them.
- Establishes benefits and privileges: From promises of provision (like not worrying about daily needs in Matthew 6:31-33) to the assurance of eternal life (John 3:16), these promises are part of what makes up the Kingdom’s constitution.
- Sets in stone the standards for life: The Bible provides clear guidelines on values, ethics, and behavior. From the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3-17) to the beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10), the King’s standards for His citizens are laid out for everyone to follow.
- Offers protection: Like a will and testament that defends a person’s final wishes, the Bible protects the rights of Kingdom citizens by establishing unchanging statutes that no one can alter.
Seven Key Principles of the Kingdom Constitution
Let’s break down the essential elements of this royal contract:
- The Source is the King, Not the Citizens:
In the Kingdom of Heaven, the constitution starts with God’s declaration—“I, the Lord…” Unlike democratic constitutions beginning with “We the people,” God’s contract is unilateral and unchangeable by human opinion. - It Contains Benefits and Privileges:
The promises spoken by Jesus, such as His assurances of provision and eternal life, detail the advantages of being a Kingdom citizen. These promises are not up for debate—they are the blessings God bestows on His people. - The King Obligates Himself to His Word:
When God speaks, His word becomes the law. His promises are not mere suggestions; they are guarantees. Once declared, they must be fulfilled. - It Establishes Rights for Its Citizens:
Just as a written testament protects the wishes of its owner, the constitution outlines the rights of those in the Kingdom. These rights are safeguarded by laws that ensure everyone receives what the King has decreed. - Only the King Can Amend It:
In a kingdom, the citizens don’t have the authority to change the constitution. The only one who can revise or alter these rules is the King Himself. - It Serves as a Reference for Life in the Kingdom:
The values, ethics, and moral standards of the Kingdom are found in this document. It guides how citizens live, ensuring that all behavior aligns with the King’s vision. - It Contains the Statutes of the Kingdom:
These are fixed, predictable standards—much like statues that stand the test of time. They remain constant, regardless of changing societal trends or modern interpretations.
Living Under the King’s Will
When we embrace the Kingdom’s constitution, we acknowledge that God’s will is unchangeable and perfect for our greatest good. Even as modern society often debates and reinterprets moral standards, the royal contract remains the same. It’s not up for negotiation because it represents the enduring promise and will of our sovereign King.
By living according to this royal contract, we become citizens of a Kingdom where the King’s word isn’t just a guideline—it’s a guarantee of blessings, protection, and eternal hope.
In a world where many are trying to tell God what to do, the Kingdom reminds us: “In this Kingdom, I make the contracts.” As we navigate life under the unwavering guidance of our King, may we find comfort in knowing that His word stands forever.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going about what it means to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven!
