Page 19 - TH130 Kingdom of God A4 Final

CH A P T E R 2

Historical

Approaches to

the Kingdom

n the last chapter, we discussed some of the overall aspects of the
kingdom of God. This doctrine has been interpreted differently
Ithroughout church history. These different interpretations have
influenced a Christian’s view of the kingdom of God and can affect how
he or she understands and does missionary work.

Pentecost to Reformation

The Early Post-Apostolic Church
During post-apostolic times (A.D. 100–300), the church underwent
great persecution. As a result, it adopted what one author has called a
“persecution mentality.” Over time, it developed a tendency to withdraw
from worldly affairs and began to look at the kingdom of God as only
in the future. These persecuted believers looked forward to the day
when Christ would return. Then He would deliver them from their trials
and set up His reign on earth. The post-apostolic church further saw
the kingdom of God as a spiritual kingdom that dwelt in the hearts
of believers.

::: 11 :::