Hi Bradford,
I found this email from Ray's which explains about the kingdom.
http://www.forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,1529.0.html -------------------------
Hi Ray,
I hope it's okay to call you Ray. I know it's a bit casual, but I feel like I know you. I've read much of the writings on your web-site and appreciate your insights. You have given me much to think about and digest. Obviously, this is very different from what I was taught in my Catholic/Baptist upbringing, so I just want to make sure I understand how all the pieces of this divine puzzle fit together.
My question is this: In 2 Cor. 6: 9+10, Jesus says that specific sinners will not inherit the "Kingdom of God". To what does the Kingdom of God refer? An actual place (heaven) or a state of mind? Does he mean that they will never inherit it? And how does that fit with your view that there is no "eternal damnation"? (I hope this doesn't sound sarcastic in any way. This is a very sincere question that I am having difficulty understanding).
Thanks for any response you have time to give. I'm sure you are overwhelmed with e-mails.
In Christ,
Laura
PS~ Have you ever written specifically about the parable of the Wedding Banquet? That's another one that gives me trouble. If you have it somewhere on your web-site, could you please direct me to it? Thank you.
Dear Laura:
The "Kingdom of God" is the kingdom that will rule the nations under the Kingship of Jesus Christ, composed of lesser kings, lords, priests, and judges. These kings, lords, priests, and judges, are composed of the ranks of God's Chosen Elect Saints.
Only those worthy of the First resurrection from the death will ever rule with Christ in the Kingdom of God. Those who are judged, purified and saved in the Great White Throne Judgment will be in God's family, but they will never be rulers with Christ.
And don't ask any more detailed questions on this, because it would take hours to answer you, and I just don't have the time. Much of this material is already covered in my Lake of Fire series. Hope you understand.
God be with you,
Ray
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As for the other scripture,
Luke 17:20 - The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
Romans 14:17 - For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
The Kingdom is Spirit, so it cannot be observed by those on earth, because Spirit is invsible (1Tim. 1:17, Heb. 11:27). As for the last part of verse 20, it means it is present in all believers as the kingdom is being built through them.
In Rom. 14 again we are talking about Spirit, so there is no need to eat or drink, and the fruit of the Spirit is righteousness, peace, and joy among others.
I hope this helps you see what I'm trying to say
mercy, peace, and love
Kat