What Did the Old Testament Promise About the Kingdom?
The Kingdom of God did not begin as a New Testament idea. Long before Jesus was born, God promised that He would establish an everlasting kingdom under His chosen King.
As early as God's covenant with David, that promise began to take shape. God told David,
"I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever." (2 Samuel 7:13)
Although Solomon fulfilled part of that promise, the language points beyond him to a greater King whose reign would never end.
The prophets developed that promise even further.
Isaiah foretold the birth of a child who would rule on David's throne:
"Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end...upon the throne of David and over His kingdom." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
This coming King would establish a kingdom unlike any earthly empire.
Daniel also spoke of that kingdom. While interpreting King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, he declared,
"In the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed."(Daniel 2:44)
Unlike the kingdoms of Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome, God's kingdom would never pass away. It would outlast every human government because its King would reign forever.
Later, Daniel saw a vision of "One like the Son of Man" coming before the Ancient of Days.
"To Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him." (Daniel 7:13-14)
Notice that the kingdom is given to the Son of Man. It is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion will never end.
These promises created great expectation among God's people. They looked for the coming Messiah—the Son of David who would establish God's eternal kingdom.
By the time Jesus was born, many expected a powerful earthly ruler who would restore Israel's national greatness.
But God's plan was far greater.
The prophets had promised an everlasting kingdom.
What they had not yet fully revealed was how that kingdom would be established or what it would ultimately look like.
Those answers begin to unfold when Jesus appears.
Continue Your Study
Why Did Jesus Say, "The Kingdom Is at Hand"?
John the Baptist announced it.
Jesus announced it.
The apostles announced it.
What did they mean when they said the Kingdom was "at hand"?
And why was that announcement so important?
Related Bible Studies
What Is the Kingdom of God?
Why Does the Bible Call the Church the Kingdom of God?
When Did the Church Begin?
The Story of Redemption
Companion Video
What Did the Old Testament Promise About the Kingdom?
Read First. Conclude Later.