HOUSMAIL HM#020 - RULING THE KINGDOM WITH A ROD OF IRON                                  3 March 1999

Several references in both the Old and New Testaments refer to Jesus as ruling with a rod of iron. (Psalm 2:9, Rev 2:27, 12:5, 19:15)

From time to time, I have encountered preachers whose concept of the kingdom "rod of iron" is somewhat akin to a STEEL BASEBALL BAT! (used to "batter" the subjects of the Kingdom into submission and obedience by military force!)

But how could that be true? It would seem to be totally out of character with the Christ who reveals Himself in the Gospels. And it is certainly NOT what His disciples are currently being trained to do!

"You know that those who are supposed to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. BUT IT SHALL NOT BE SO AMONG YOU; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:42-45)

The King who reveals Himself in the Gospel, has only one means of "enforcing" His rulership.

"IF YOU LOVE ME ..... YOU WILL KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS". (John 14:15)

Love for Jesus is THE force by which the saints are encouraged to overcome the world. It has a restraining power, and it is a binding force, far stronger than anything this present world has ever seen in other rulers.

Can this LOVE be the "rod of iron" by which Jesus maintains His authority in the Kingdom?

How wonderful is the GOOD NEWS which offers us a place in a Kingdom where EVERYONE knows this, and holds it firmly as a law written in their minds and hearts! (Hebrews 8:10-11)

Allon

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