Kingdom in the Bible
The Bible's kingdom is not first a place but a reign — God's active rule breaking into history through Christ. The Hebrew and Greek words both stress sovereignty, not geography.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →Matthew 6:33
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”Read in context
Mark 1:15
“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”Read in context
Kingdom as reign
Both basileia (G932) and malkuth (H4438) refer first to the act of reigning, only secondarily to a realm. To enter the kingdom is to come under the King's rule.
Already and not yet
Jesus announced the kingdom as present (Luke 17:21) and still coming (Matthew 6:10). Believers live between the inauguration and the consummation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Greek word for kingdom in the Bible?
Basileia (G932), meaning kingdom or reign — used 162 times in the New Testament.
What is the kingdom of God?
God's active reign in Christ, breaking into history now and consummated at His return (Mark 1:15; Revelation 11:15).
Is the kingdom of God the same as heaven?
Matthew uses 'kingdom of heaven' as a reverent substitute for 'kingdom of God' — the same reality, not a separate realm.