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I. RELIGION IS AN INWARD AND SPIRITUAL PRINCIPLE. It is, says our Saviour, "within you." This is a representation which differs from the ordinary opinion of men. If it be within us, then —

1. It is not determined by geographical boundaries, by latitude or longitude.

2. It does not consist in an observance of ordinances. This is a representation which accords with what we find in the sacred pages. God forms His estimate of the characters of men, not by their actions, or their language, or their opinions, or by anything of a merely outward nature; but by the temper and frame of their hearts.

II. TRUE RELIGION SUBJECTS THE SOUL TO THE AUTHORITY AND REIGN OF GOD.

1. It is spoken of as a kingdom. Now a kingdom is not a scene of anarchy and rebellion; it is distinguished by order and due subordination.

2. But this is not all. Not only is there subordination, but all is under the immediate control of God.

(1) God is the author and preserver of that spiritual and Divine principle in which true religion consists.

(2) God has appointed all the means by which it is maintained.

3. Mere necessary submission is not enough. It implies a voluntary subjection of the heart to the authority of God.

(Dr. Harris.)

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KJV: And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:

WEB: Being asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, he answered them, "The Kingdom of God doesn't come with observation;