Source: Margaret Barker, The Hidden Tradition of the Kingdom of God (London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, 2007), 104–130.
The Kingdom of God Through History.wav
This topic from Margaret Barker's "The Hidden Tradition of the Kingdom of God" explores the multifaceted concept of the Kingdom of God throughout biblical history and its evolving interpretations. Barker argues that the earliest understanding of the Kingdom was deeply rooted in the imagery of the Jerusalem temple and its holy of holies, representing God's presence and a state of unity and light. She traces how this initial vision, often expressed through vivid and symbolic language, was later interpreted both as a future, literal restoration and a present, spiritual reality, particularly after the destruction of Jerusalem. Furthermore, the text emphasizes the crucial, often overlooked, role of Wisdom as a divine figure intimately connected to the Kingdom, its blessings, and its restoration, while also considering the influence of fallen angels as a counterforce.
1. The Kingdom of God: This is the central theme, explored in its historical interpretations (future earthly kingdom, present spiritual reality), its connection to the temple, and its symbolism. The text examines how the concept of the Kingdom evolved from early Christian expectations to later theological understandings.
2. The Temple and its Cosmology: The source frequently refers to the ancient temple in Jerusalem and its significance as a representation of the divine presence and the original creation (Eden). It discusses how the layout and symbolism of the temple informed early understandings of heaven, earth, and the Kingdom of God. The evolution of this temple cosmology into concepts like the Empyrean is also a key aspect.
3. Wisdom (Sophia): Wisdom is presented as a crucial figure in the Kingdom tradition, described as the mother of the Messiah, associated with the tree of life, and linked to concepts like anointing, knowledge, and the divine presence. The text highlights Wisdom's role in both the Old and New Testaments, as well as in later Christian thought.
4. Interpretations of Scripture and Prophecy: The source discusses how early Christians and subsequent theologians interpreted Old Testament prophecies and the visions of the New Testament, particularly concerning the nature and timing of the Kingdom. It highlights the shift from literal interpretations (like a restored earthly Jerusalem) to more spiritual or symbolic understandings. The differences in interpretation between texts like the Book of Revelation and the Gospel of John are also significant here.
5. The Present vs. Future Reality of the Kingdom: The text explores the tension and evolution of thought regarding whether the Kingdom of God was a future event to be anticipated or a present reality experienced within the Church or the heart of the believer. This theme is particularly evident in the discussion of John's writings and the impact of the destruction of Jerusalem on Christian eschatology.
The text argues that these vivid images are not meant to be taken with crude literalism but should be understood as the means by which profound theological and societal issues were addressed within a culture that valued storytelling, poetry, and visionary insights rather than the abstract philosophical discourse we understand today. These images were concessions to the nature of the human mind, using poetic language to convey deeper truths about the relationship between the divine and the human, the nature of good and evil, and the hope for restoration and unity with God. Just as one doesn't need to believe in a literal talking snake to understand the significance of the Eden narrative, the symbolic language of the Kingdom should be appreciated for its ability to communicate profound truths within its original cultural context.