"Gospel of the Kingdom" preaching Will Precipitate "2nd Coming"

Without question the Church (“the redeemed, called out ones”; not the ecclesiastical organization) plays a critical role in the “2^nd Coming” of Christ.  Jesus, Himself, said, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14).  Further, and as a critical commentary on these words Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).  Faithfulness to this 2-fold task is to hasten the coming of the Lord Jesus (2Peter 3:12).

A working definition will help in defining the Church’s responsibility, precisely, what is “the Gospel of the Kingdom”?  The definition comes indirectly as a result of two of John the Baptist’s disciples, sent by John when he was in prison, posing a question to Jesus, “Are you the Coming One, or do we look for another” (Luke 7:20b)?

His response.  “Then Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard:  that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them” (Luke 7:24).  These statements, along with one other, casting out demons (Luke 9:1) are foundational to the “Gospel of the Kingdom”. These comprise the “message” of the Kingdom” and making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19) comprises the “methodology”.   

A 2^nd definition is needed to help clarify the Church’s responsibility:  “Making disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).  A distinction must be made between a “convert” and a “disciple”.  By dictionary definition a “convert” means “one who has changed from one creed, belief or opinion to a different one.”  The same dictionary states a “disciple” is “one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another”, in this case, the doctrines of Jesus.  Over-simplified, “converts” are to become “disciples”.

Presently it’s being said that preaching of the “Gospel of the Kingdom”, with signs and wonders attending, will spearhead the last great revival that will soon sweep over the earth.  Getting the “Gospel Message” straight in all its fullness is critical to this whole process. 

When “disciples” have been made of all nations (“ethnic” groups), or, more precisely when the last disciple has been made then Jesus will return.  The Church’s attentiveness to its given task plays a critical role in bringing Jesus back.