Proclaiming that “The kingdom of God has come near” is how Jesus begins his ministry. It must be important if that is how Jesus would start. And I believe that it is also the thesis of Mark’s gospel which is proven out over the course of the next 16 chapters.

The Kingdom of God is a fourfold structure, or map, of person, people, plan, and purpose.

1. Person is Jesus, of course!
2. People is Jesus' followers, of course!
3. Plan is holiness which has to do with how love fills all of our
relationships.
4. Purpose is salvation.

A. The kingdom is already and not yet.

B. The kingdom is up close and personal but never private.

C. Belonging comes before believing.

D. Alternatives exist that can seem better, easier, more in line with acceptable practices in our society.