Our Kingdom Is Not of This World: Finding Hope Amid the Struggle

Recently, I found myself in conversation with a friend. Like so many of us, we were wrestling with the current state of our country—the deep divisions, the injustice, the way people of color, in particular, have been carrying such a heavy weight of despair. It feels like the headlines never stop, the policies are relentless, and those in positions of power often appear more concerned with maintaining control than pursuing justice. The world can feel exhausting.

As we talked, something stirred in me—a reminder that this is not the first time God’s people have faced such turmoil. In fact, something eerily similar played out during the time of Jesus.

Expecting a Political Savior

During Jesus’ ministry, the Jewish people were living under the harsh rule of Rome. Their land, their freedoms, their identity were all under siege. Many believed the Messiah would come as a political warrior, a revolutionary to topple Rome and restore their national power.

But Jesus didn’t come to overthrow governments. And this frustrated many. They wanted immediate change, external deliverance, and justice now. When He didn’t meet those expectations, some turned away—even revolted against Him.

Instead, Jesus declared something radical:“My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36)

He wasn’t ignoring the injustice or pretending Rome’s oppression wasn’t real. But His mission went far deeper. Jesus came to dismantle the root causes of oppression—sin, hatred, division, pride—and replace them with something eternal. He came to set hearts free, not just people groups politically, but individually and communally, from the inside out.

Why Jesus Said He Came

Throughout His ministry, Jesus made His purpose crystal clear:

• To proclaim good news to the poor and set the oppressed free. (Luke 4:18-19)

• To seek and save the lost. (Luke 19:10)

• To give life—and life abundantly. (John 10:10)

• To destroy the works of the devil. (1 John 3:8)

• To call sinners, not the righteous. (Luke 5:32)

• To fulfill the Law through love and truth. (Matthew 5:17)

• To bring light into darkness. (John 12:46)

• To do the will of His Father. (John 6:38)

He came to usher in a Kingdom without borders, race hierarchies, or systems of oppression. It’s a Kingdom where hearts are transformed, dignity is restored, and justice is woven into its very fabric.

How This Speaks to Us Today

Friends, I know the weariness. I know the frustration when we see injustice continuing, when wicked people occupy high places, and when freedom feels fragile. It’s tempting to place our hope in earthly systems, longing for someone or something to finally make things right.

But Jesus’ message is just as relevant now as it was then:

Our Kingdom is not of this world.

That doesn’t mean we stop fighting. On the contrary—because our citizenship is first in God's Kingdom, we are compelled to fight for justice here and now. But we do so knowing that our hope doesn’t hinge on political victories or societal acceptance.

It’s a long game. A faithful, intentional, Spirit-led resistance against discrimination, against wickedness in high places, against anything that seeks to devalue human dignity.

So What Do We Do?

We do exactly what Christ modeled:

• We fight for freedom and justice.

• We lift up the oppressed.

• We stand boldly against discrimination and evil.

• We work for reconciliation and healing.

• And above all, we keep our eyes fixed on the eternal.

As Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:12, we continue to “fight the good fight of faith”, knowing that our victory is secure—not because of who governs, but because of Who reigns.

So to my sisters and brothers feeling heavy in this season: Stay the course. Fight the good fight. Remember, this world is not our final home—but while we are here, we fight fiercely, love deeply, and trust fully in the One whose Kingdom can never be shaken.

---

Like what you've read? We would love to hear from you!! Leave us a comment, share and like our articles.