The Kingdom Suffereth Violence, and the Violent Take it by Force Meaning
Today we will talk about the kingdom suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force meaning. Many Christians do not know what this means. The phrase, found in Matthew 11:12, has sparked questions and contemplations through the ages. What kind of violence is being referred to? Who are the “violent” in this scripture? As we journey through God’s Word, let’s open our hearts and minds to understand the richness of this spiritual statement, its implications, and how it applies to our lives today.
Understanding the Hebrew and Greek Interpretations
The interpretation of biblical language can sometimes unlock layers of meaning that enrich our understanding. The phrase in Matthew 11:12 stems from the original Greek language, where the word for “suffereth” is “biazo,” which refers to a type of force or a pressing or violent approach. This connotation is important as it shapes our understanding of what is meant by violence in this context. The word “violent” is translated from “biastes,” indicating individuals who engage in forceful action, often in pursuit of their goals. This force can be seen not merely in a physical sense but also as spiritual fervor or determination.
Historically, the usage of violence in the Scriptures often refers to the intense struggles of individuals or groups as they sought to seize what God has promised. In the Hebrew Scriptures, we see this pursuit manifested in the lives of characters like Jacob, who wrestled with God (Genesis 32:22-32), and the Israelites endeavoring to enter the Promised Land through battles and struggles, illustrating the concept of forcefully claiming God-given promises.
In a broader sense, the understanding of “kingdom” here pertains to God’s realm and the authority He exerts over His creation. Jesus, speaking during His earthly ministry, emphasizes that the arrival of the kingdom challenges oppressive forces and champions those who actively pursue God’s vision with diligence and zeal. This gives us an understanding of the phrase in a way that encourages intensity in our quest for the spiritual kingdom.
The Kingdom and Its Characteristics
The term “kingdom” is foundational in Christianity—it encapsulates the reign of God over His creation and the realm of grace extended to humanity. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray for God’s kingdom to come (Matthew 6:10), indicating that this kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope. This kingdom operates on principles that contrast sharply with the world’s systems, often highlighting peace, love, mercy, and justice.
In Luke 9:62, Jesus speaks about being focused on the work of the kingdom and not looking back. This sense of urgency reflects the active, dynamic nature of God’s rule, where followers are called to engage and invest their lives fully in pursuing God’s plans. The kingdom is characterized by active pursuit and fervent commitment, suggesting that a passive attitude will not suffice if we aim to experience its fullness.
Moreover, sharing in the kingdom necessitates a lifestyle of sacrifice and dedication, as noted in Luke 14:26-27, where Jesus states that one must ‘carry their cross’ to be His disciple. This requirement implies a willingness to engage in difficult, sometimes even violent struggles for the sake of righteousness and faith. Hence, the kingdom that “suffereth violence” is one that is actively contested in the spiritual realms, where believers must assertively claim their inheritance through faith.
The Nature of Spiritual Violence
Violence can often have a negative connotation, but in this spiritual context, we can think of it as a form of passionate engagement—a genuine drive to advance God’s purpose and manifest His will in our lives. The “violent” here are those who refuse to let obstacles, cultural norms, or personal doubts stand in their way. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, highlighting the nature of spiritual warfare that every believer encounters. We are called to take a stand and push back against the forces of darkness that strive to undermine our growth and faith.
In the early church, the apostles faced intense persecution as they boldly spread the message of Christ. They exemplified this spiritual violence in their refusal to shy away from proclaiming the Gospel (Acts 5:40-42). Each encounter, opposition, or setback was met with resolve, showing how they embraced the challenges as part of their calling. Their stories serve as inspiration, urging us to embody that same zeal in our personal faith journeys.
This notion of spiritual violence also draws attention to the reality of spiritual growth and maturity. In Colossians 3:2, Paul advises us to “set our minds on things that are above,” which necessitates an active decision to pursue spiritual elevation above worldly distractions. The act of “taking” the kingdom by force invites us to engage vigorously with prayer, fasting, and seeking God (James 4:8). The kingdom sentiments of righteousness demand our active participation, driving home the need for spiritual energy and commitment.
The Fruits of Violence in Pursuing the Kingdom
Understanding the fruits of our efforts in pursuing God’s kingdom solidifies our resolve. When we respond to this idea of “taking it by force,” we can expect to see transformative effects in our lives and the lives of those around us. Romans 14:17 illustrates that the kingdom is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, essential qualities that arise from our dedicated pursuit.
Additionally, Galatians 6:9 encourages us not to become weary in doing good, promising that we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Our commitment to the kingdom and its principles will bear fruit, reflecting our relationship with God—bringing renewed hope, restoration, and a vibrant community. Each act of faith, whether through service, prayer, or sharing our testimonies, contributes to the expansion of the kingdom. Embracing the richness of participating in God’s plans yields blessings that often go beyond our comprehension.
Furthermore, the reality of claiming the kingdom by force includes resisting negative influences and persistently seeking the presence of God in our lives. Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to “throw off everything that hinders.” By focusing on spiritual health and well-being, we become conduits of God’s purpose, positively impacting others. As we embody this spirit of violence toward our spiritual pursuits, we align ourselves more closely with God’s heart.
Final Thoughts
The concept of “the kingdom suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force” is not just a call to action; it’s an invitation to actively engage in our faith. As we reflect on our spiritual journey, we realize the importance of pursuing God’s kingdom with purpose and determination. The process may be challenging, but the fruits of our labor yield righteousness, peace, and joy.
We are encouraged to adopt a passionate approach to our spiritual lives, recognizing that every struggle we face is an opportunity to grow closer to God. We should remain steadfast in our commitment while uplifting one another along the way. The journey of faith can be tough, but remembering that we are pressing into something great allows us to embrace our calling with excitement.
As we claim our inheritance in God’s kingdom, let’s be reminded that with every step we take in faith, we are aligning ourselves with God’s eternal purposes. Together, we can foster a community characterized by love, encouragement, and relentless pursuit of God’s will.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4