The Spiritual Kingdom of Christ: Exploring Jeremiah 23:5-8 and the True Israel
In Jeremiah 23:5-8, we are given a glimpse of a future where the Lord raises up “a Branch of righteousness” to reign as King, executing judgment and righteousness on Earth. This passage goes on to declare the name by which He will be called: “The Lord Our Righteousness.” It’s a vision of a coming Kingdom of divine righteousness, where Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell safely. But what does this truly mean?
When we read passages like these, it’s essential to understand that the land in which true Israel dwells safely is in Christ Jesus. His Kingdom is not an earthly one; it is a spiritual Kingdom. There are two Israels spoken of in the Bible: an earthly Israel and a heavenly Israel.
Romans 9:6 sheds light on this duality, stating, “But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel.” In other words, being of a particular bloodline does not automatically make one a part of the true Israel of God.
A pivotal moment in understanding this spiritual concept is when Jesus spoke to Nicodemus in John 3:5-7. He emphasized the necessity of being born again, not in a physical sense, but in a spiritual one. He said, “unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus made it clear that one’s bloodline or physical heritage means nothing in the Kingdom of God; one must become spiritual.
John the Baptist echoed this sentiment in Matthew 3:9 when he warned, “and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones.” The message was that God’s chosen people were not determined by physical lineage but by a spiritual connection.
Apostate Israel of old relied on their self-righteousness as law-keepers and failed to recognize the need for Christ. This pattern continues today, as some still cling to the Torah (law) that predates Christ. However, it is clear from the Scriptures that it is the believers in Christ who are the true Israel of God.
Galatians 6:15-16 affirms this truth, stating, “For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.” This “Israel of God” is a new creation under the new covenant established by Christ.
We must let go of the notion of God having a special, exclusive people. His love is extended to all, and everyone is invited to partake in the spiritual banquet. Revelation 3:20 beautifully portrays this inclusivity, as it says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” It’s a simple and universal invitation to all who are willing to come and dine with the Lord.
In conclusion, Jeremiah 23:5-8, and the accompanying biblical passages, paint a picture of a spiritual Kingdom where the true Israel of God resides in Christ Jesus. It’s a Kingdom where one’s physical lineage is irrelevant, and the focus is on a spiritual rebirth and connection with the Lord. In this Kingdom, all are welcome to partake in the divine feast, breaking down the barriers that separate us and emphasizing God’s love for every soul.