What does "kingdom of God" mean beyond eating and drinking?

Definition and Context

The phrase “kingdom of God” appears throughout Scripture in various books and teachings, yet it holds a cohesive meaning: the sovereign reign of the Creator manifest in the world and, ultimately, in the hearts of people. When Romans 14:17 declares, “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit,” it moves the focus from external religious observances to the profound internal reality and transformative power this kingdom brings. This does not negate the importance of physical matters in life; rather, it elevates the central aspects of God’s kingdom as spiritual, moral, and relational.

Biblical Foundations

Many explore the idea of God’s kingdom by tracing its progression through Scripture. In the Old Testament, Daniel prophesies about a kingdom set up by God that will never be destroyed (Daniel 2:44), indicating that there is an everlasting dominion ruled by the Almighty, surpassing all earthly powers. In the New Testament, Jesus often speaks of the kingdom of God—or “kingdom of heaven” in the Gospel of Matthew—as something at hand (Mark 1:15) and as a reality that transforms how people live and think (Luke 17:20–21).

These teachings collectively point to two inseparable truths: (1) God’s kingship is absolute, ruling over the cosmos He created, and (2) this divine rule has a personal dimension for all who align themselves under His authority.

Beyond External Observances

1. Spiritual Depth Over Rituals

The emphasis “not a matter of eating and drinking” highlights that God’s kingdom cannot be contained or fully explained by outward traditions and customs. For instance, in the first-century world, questions about dietary laws and ceremonial practices were prevalent. Romans 14:17 clarifies that although believers should remain mindful of their conduct, they must ultimately remember that the core of God’s reign is the transformation of the heart and mind.

2. Righteousness, Peace, and Joy

The same verse points to three key expressions of the kingdom’s reality: righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. This means that genuine righteousness—right standing with God and moral integrity—flows from God’s presence. Peace emerges within relationships, both with God and with others, and joy springs from security in God’s unfailing love.

Present and Future Dimensions

1. Already but Not Yet

The kingdom of God has a present dimension in the sense that those who follow God experience His reign now, primarily through the indwelling Holy Spirit (John 14:16–17). It also has a future completion when Christ returns, fulfilling prophetic Scriptures such as Revelation 21:1–4, where the ultimate consummation of God’s dominion will abolish suffering and death.

2. Inaugurated at Christ’s First Coming

The Gospels record an inauguration of this kingdom at Jesus’ earthly ministry, manifested in His miracles, teachings, and resurrection’s power. Early sources such as the writings of the Church Fathers, alongside New Testament manuscript evidence confirmed by archaeological findings (e.g., fragments like Papyrus 66, Papyrus 75), consistently attest to these events.

3. Fulfilled at Christ’s Second Coming

Despite its presence now, the Bible also points to a day when God’s rule will be fully realized across the entire renewed creation (2 Peter 3:13). This future hope shapes how believers live in the present—acting as citizens of a heavenly kingdom while walking on earthly ground.

Spiritual Realities and Daily Life

1. Personal Transformation

Because the foundation of God’s kingdom is centered on a spiritual relationship rather than external practices, individuals are called to repent (Mark 1:15) and be transformed by God’s power. This transformation includes the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2), leading one toward a life that reflects God’s character.

2. Social and Moral Implications

Though spiritually focused, the kingdom influences every aspect of life, including ethical behavior and compassionate action. Acts of charity, justice, and love become tangible demonstrations of God’s kingship. Throughout history, archaeological discoveries (such as early Christian inscriptions and house churches in places like the ancient city of Dura-Europos) support that first-century believers understood their faith as more than ritual: it was a comprehensive lifestyle affirming God’s reign over all areas of existence.

Faith, Hope, and Identity

1. Righteousness Through Faith

In the biblical narrative, righteousness is not self-manufactured but received through faith, grounded in the redemptive work of Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9). Believers are called to embrace that righteousness and live it out. This identity is an active acknowledgment that they now belong to God’s domain.

2. Peace in All Circumstances

God’s kingdom promises an unshakable peace (Philippians 4:7), which stands in stark contrast to worldly turmoil. Historical documents, including personal accounts of believers who faced adversity and persecution (e.g., late first-century writings such as Clement’s Letter to the Corinthians), reveal how this peace shaped their history-altering perseverance and unity.

3. Joy Founded on Hope of Resurrection

The resurrection of Christ underscores the reality of God’s kingdom. It provides the sure hope of future restoration (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). Alongside manuscript evidence such as the early fragments of the Gospel of John, numerous scholars note the reliability of these accounts, affirming that the resurrection is a foundational event assuring believers they participate in a kingdom not confined to temporal limitations.

Practical Application

1. Relational Harmony

Since the essence of the kingdom includes God’s love and righteousness, believers are encouraged to pursue peace with others (Hebrews 12:14). This invites adopting God’s perspective on relationships, prioritizing empathy, humility, and reconciliation.

2. Holiness and Service

Understanding the kingdom as a divine reign over one’s life includes a call to holiness—being set apart for God’s purposes. Christians are urged to serve others as Christ served (Galatians 5:13–14), showing through humble deeds that God’s kingdom is realized through tangible displays of compassion.

3. Confidence Against Opposition

In a world that often emphasizes physical measures of success and worth, realizing the spiritual nature of God’s kingdom imparts courage. Believers can stand firm, knowing ultimate victory is God’s, and He empowers His people even amid persecution or cultural challenges.

Conclusion

The kingdom of God extends far beyond mere external observances like eating and drinking. It is a holistic, ever-present reality that finds expression by transforming hearts, relationships, and communities. Rooted in the divine kingship announced through Scripture—from Daniel’s prophecies to Jesus’ teachings and the apostles’ writings—this kingdom centers on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Such a kingdom is both a present assurance and a future hope, empowered by Christ’s resurrection and guided by the Holy Spirit. It reaches into every dimension of life, shaping thoughts, actions, and destiny. For all who seek deeper meaning, the invitation is to embrace and participate in this kingdom with faith, aligning the entirety of life under the gracious, eternal reign of God.