Jesus’ first recorded words in His public ministry set the foundation for His mission:
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Matt. 4:17).
The word “repent” is often misunderstood as simply feeling sorry for wrongdoing. However, in its truest sense, repentance means a complete change of mindset—to stop, turn around, and align one’s thinking with God’s Kingdom.
Jesus’ message was direct: everything we have learned from earthly systems is wrong, and we must adopt a Kingdom mindset. This shift requires us to let go of human ways of thinking, especially those shaped by democratic systems where the majority rules.
Kingdom vs. Democracy
- In a democracy, people vote, and their opinions shape leadership and laws.
- In a Kingdom, only the King’s will matters—His rule is absolute and eternal.
Jesus was preparing His listeners to understand that God’s Kingdom operates differently from earthly governments. There are no elections, no debates, and no compromises in God’s Kingdom—His Word is final.
Looking Ahead: How to Enter the Kingdom
In the next blog, we will go beyond just understanding the Kingdom mindset. We will explore practical steps on how to enter and seek the Kingdom—learning to live under God’s rule, embrace His will, and experience the fullness of His reign.