THE INSIDE KINGDOM

The Kingdom of God is like God. The Kingdom is enthusiastic. The Kingdom is “inside” first, then “outside.” What is outside is often religion, or a religious response, and obviously it can be outward religious enthusiasm. That does not mean God is necessarily in it. Because something is religious doesn’t mean it is a place where the Father abides, or even particularly likes. There is nothing in Scripture that says God ever cared for religion. Trouble is, religion can have the bells and smells of the real deal, and often does, and yet not have life in it, the life of the Father. Many times, if not always, religion is a rival to God and His purposes. The outside is a fake if the inside is. The outside is real if the inside is.

Real enthusiasm must come personally to the seeker of Life. This enthusiastic way is by invitation, and not by imitation. Invitation is requesting someone’s presence and participation. Imitation is often to copy, or fake, that invitation. Thus, one can fake the enthusiasm even by honest delusion. This enthusiasm may begin in a corporate way and commonly does. But reality is when we personally want and invite the life of God within us. This is the test of all time: Do we want the King to live within us? Do we likewise want His Kingdom? If we do it is by invitation.

“But you are those who have continued with me in my trials. And I bestow upon you a kingdom, just as my Father bestowed one upon me, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom…” Jesus