Contrast of the "Kingdom of God"

Obed Narcisse

Religion 10

Fr. Albert/ Br. Thomas

February 16,2015

Worksheet #612

The “Kingdom of God” was viewed differently by Jesus than that of a first century Palestinian Jew. The Jewish idea of the “Kingdom of God” was a nation-state with boundaries ruled by a military messiah-king, analogous to King David. Also, this land would be free from pagan influence. Meanwhile, Jesus’ views of the “Kingdom of God” contrasted the first century Palestinian Jews’; the Kingdom of God was not a place. In fact, there were no political boundaries because it was not of this world. The Kingdom of God was a new way of relating to God and your neighbors. Lastly, the messiah was a pure spiritual figure, not a tyrant who would kick out the Romans.

The Jews believed God was an awesome, fearsome God. It would be a crime to say his name. He was “all holy”, distant and mysterious. However, he was also faithful, loving and patient. Jesus viewed God as a passionate loving parent whom we had an intimate closeness with. His love had no boundaries and was unconditional.  

The Jewish idea of “Love of neighbor” meant they had concern for one another especially the poor, widows etc. However, this support was only extended to fellow Jews, not Gentiles, sinners or outcasts. Jesus believed “Love of neighbor” meant that an individual must love everyone endlessly because our love for others should imitate God’s love for us, which is unconditional.In Jesus’ eyes, love must be spread to everyone.