The Hidden Kingdom: Jesus' Message to the Pharisees in Luke 17:20-21

When Jesus spoke to the Pharisees about the Kingdom of God in Luke 17:20-21, He was addressing a significant theological and prophetic question. The context of this exchange reveals the presence of a Kingdom that was more closely at hand than some might have expected.

The Context of Luke 17:20-21

As Jesus and the Pharisees interacted, the Pharisees inquired about the time of the coming of the Kingdom of God. Jesus responded with a statement that seemingly contradicted their expectations. He stated, 'The Kingdom of God is not coming with striking observableness. For look! the Kingdom of God is in your midst.' (Luke 17:20-21)

The Interpretation of "In Your Midst"

It is important to note that the original Greek text uses the pronoun "you" in the plural form, which refers explicitly to the Pharisees. This means that Jesus was speaking to them about the presence of the Kingdom in their midst. This interpretation aligns with other New Testament passages that emphasize the latent presence of the Kingdom within.

The apparent contradiction between the Pharisees and Jesus is resolved by understanding the nature of the Kingdom as both imminent and already present. Jesus, as God's royal representative, was personally present among the Jews, representing the coming Kingdom. Additionally, He had the authority to perform works that manifested God's kingly power and to prepare candidates for positions within his coming Kingdom.

The Role of Jesus as God's King

Jesus, being God's chosen representative, was anointed by God for the kingship. Hence, it can be said that 'the Kingdom' was in their midst through His presence and authority. This is supported by passages such as Luke 22:29-30, where Jesus states, 'I will give you authority to eat at my table in my kingdom and to sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.' (Luke 22:29-30)

The Spiritual and Political Implications

The presence of Jesus as the Kingdom manifested among the Jews had both spiritual and political implications. For Jesus, it was a fulfillment of the promise of the coming King of the Kingdom of Heaven. This presence also placed a responsibility on the Pharisees to recognize and respond to the Kingdom's presence, much like how contemporaries would have recognized a political king.

Resistance to the Message

The Pharisees, blinded by their own desires and misunderstanding of the coming Kingdom, were hostile to Jesus' message. Their resistance to accept Jesus as the prophesied King of the Kingdom of God led to their refusal to acknowledge His presence and authority. This resistance is not unique to the Pharisees; it is a theme echoed throughout the prophetic books of the Bible, indicating that many would reject the true message of salvation and redemption.

Blindness and the Kingdom of God

The phrase 'the Kingdom of God is among you' can also be interpreted as a statement of spiritual blindness. Many are spiritually blinded by the 'god of this age' and are entrapped by the allure of 'the dragon.' This spiritual blindness can lead to stark consequences, as seen in Revelation 13, where those who are deceived by false gods and false prophets face judgment.

The Parable of the Vineyard Workers

Jesus' message to the Pharisees is akin to Jesus' parable of the vineyard workers (Matthew 21:33-46). The workers, who could have recognized the true King and His Kingdom, foolishly rejected Him, blind to the truth of His divine authority and role.

Conclusion: The statement 'the Kingdom of God is in your midst' is a profound statement that challenges the preconceived notions of many. It calls for recognition of God's presence and authority in one's life and society. As the Kingdom of Heaven is both immediately present and still to come, believers and non-believers alike are invited to reflect on their readiness to accept this truth.

Keywords: Kingdom of God, Luke 17:20-21, Pharisees