The Reality of God's Kingdom as Described in Daniel 2:44 Its Implications

While many interpretations exist regarding the meaning of Daniel 2:44, traditional scriptural interpretation suggests that the kingdom of God is not, as some believe, a global empire comprising numerous countries. Rather, it will rule from heaven as evidenced by numerous scriptural passages, including Revelation 5:9-10.

Divine Will and Cohesion

According to Revelation 5:9-10, God’s kingdom will encompass all people groups, including those from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation. The passage states, “And they sing a new song… for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and nation. And you have made them to be a kingdom and priests for our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” This verse clearly indicates that the kingdom of God is not a political empire but a spiritual one where all people are welcomed into the fold.

The Kingdom of God in Daniel 2:44

The passage in Daniel 2:44 describes the kingdom of God as one that covers the entire earth. It is important to note that as other kingdoms crumble and are likened to dust (as seen in the biblical imagery), they symbolically give way to the divine rule of God. This does not imply a global political entity but a transformative, spiritual regime.

Covenant Israel and the Spiritual Kingdom

It is also worth considering the kingdom of God in relation to the covenant with Israel. Traditionally, the kingdom of God is seen as the fallen kingdom of Israel restored and renewed. Covenant Israel was God's chosen nation, and the promise to Abraham regarding the coming great nation signified a spiritual kingdom that existed in the hearts and minds of those longing for a tangible restoration. After the geopolitical kingdom of Israel fell, the kingdom of God had a spiritual existence among those who awaited its restoration. When Jesus preached the gospel of the coming kingdom, it was an invitation for the resurrection of the fallen geopolitical kingdom of Israel.

The Unfulfilled Promise

The kingdom of Israel, though spiritual for nearly a millennium, did not materialize in its full geological and political form. Instead, Jesus sent forth his disciples to convert gentiles, forming the corps of Christ. Though the physical kingdom of Israel does not exist in its former geopolitical form, the promise of a great nation inheriting the land from the Euphrates to the river of Egypt remains unfulfilled. This promise is likely to be realized through the spiritual kingdom of God as prophesied in various biblical passages.

Rome’s Strategic Manipulation

Rome played a significant role in manipulating this expectation for their own strategic advantage. By installing Herod as king, they diverted attention from the true intention of the kingdom of God, which was a threat to their rule. Herod's reign and the subsequent backsliding of the Jewish people further weakened the establishment of the spiritual kingdom. However, the effort to fulfill the divine promise of a great nation has not ceased. The Corps of Christ, vast and diverse, continues the work of spreading the gospel globally, awaiting the day when the promises of the kingdom will be fully realized.

The kingdom of God, as described in Daniel 2:44 and the broader scriptural context, is not a global empire but a spiritual realm that encompasses all peoples, lands, and nations. Its true form and ultimate realization will be a matter of faith and hope, ultimately bringing everlasting peace and good will to all.