“My kingdom is from another place” — John 18:36

The kingdom of heaven is not “spiritual” and everything else is “secular.” That is not Jesus’ point. Jesus is not saying that his kingdom has nothing to do with ordinary life. Earth’s politics is “separated” somehow from the kingdom of God. No. Nothing like that.

One translation puts it “from another place” not the clunky “my kingdom is not of this world.” Jesus is declaring his kingdom is different from that of the Pharisees, the priests, and the military might present in the form of the Roman Empire.

“Worldly kingdoms often establish their power and reign through violence. Jesus, however, will establish his cosmic authority over all things by overcoming violence by submitting to it on the cross. Jesus’ kingdom is truly upside down; it’s categorically different from earthly attempts to rule the world. Jesus’ kingdom brings about the invasion of God’s kingship into this world, which ends up restoring creation, renewing Israel’s covenant and creating disciples who worship in truth and spirit. God’s kingdom is one flock with one shepherd.” (Michael Bird, an article in The Upside Down Kingdom Bible, NIV)

THIS is what is “good” about Good Friday. THIS is what is powerful about this season Christians call “Easter.” The King has come. His rule is being established. We are called to follow the kingdom that is “from another place.” It matters here. It matters now.