The “two kingdoms” doctrine is a theological framework for understanding the relationship between Christianity and culture. It has gained traction in recent years, prompting discussion and, at times, disagreement. This article aims to clarify the core tenets of this doctrine, drawing directly from the work of theologian David VanDrunen, author of “Living in God’s Two Kingdoms,” and addressing some common questions and misconceptions.
VanDrunen’s work provides a helpful lens through which to understand the Christian’s role in the world. It avoids the extremes of either withdrawing from culture or seeking to “Christianize” it.
Here’s a breakdown of what the Two Kingdoms doctrine is, and perhaps more importantly, what it is not, based on VanDrunen’s explanation:
The two-kingdoms doctrine strongly affirms that God has made all things, that sin corrupts all aspects of life, that Christians should be active in human culture, that all lawful cultural vocations are honorable, that all people are accountable to God in every activity, and that Christians should seek to live out the implications of their faith in their daily vocations. A Christian, however, does not have to adopt a redemptive vision of culture in order to affirm these important truths. A biblical two-kingdoms doctrine provides another compelling way to do so. According to this doctrine, God is not redeeming the cultural activities and institutions of this world, but is preserving them through the covenant he made with all living creatures through Noah in Genesis 8:20-9:17. God himself rules this “common kingdom,” and thus it is not, as some writers describe it, the “kingdom of man.” This kingdom is in no sense a realm of moral neutrality or autonomy. God makes its institutions and activities honorable, though only for temporary and provisional purposes. Simultaneously, God is redeeming a people for himself, by virtue of the covenant made with Abraham and brought to glorious fulfilment in the work of the Lord Jesus Christ, who has completed Adam’s original task once and for all. These redeemed people are citizens of the “redemptive kingdom,” whom God is gathering now in the church and will welcome into the new heaven and the new earth at Christ’s glorious return. Until that day, Christians live as members of both kingdoms, discharging their proper duties in each. They rejoice to be citizens of heaven through membership in the church, but also recognize for the time being they are living in Babylon, striving for justice and excellence in their cultural labors, out of love for Christ and their neighbor, as sojourners and exiles in a land that is not their lasting home. (Living in God’s Two Kingdoms, 14-15)
Let’s unpack this further.
Key Principles of the Two Kingdoms Doctrine
The doctrine suggests God governs in two distinct ways, or through two “kingdoms”:
- The Common Kingdom: This refers to God’s rule over all creation, believers and unbelievers alike. God maintains order and provides for all people through natural law, government, and social institutions. This kingdom is characterized by God’s preserving grace.
- The Redemptive Kingdom: This refers to God’s saving rule through Jesus Christ and the church. This kingdom is characterized by grace, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.
A key aspect of the Two Kingdoms doctrine is the distinction between these two realms. God rules each kingdom differently, with different purposes and means.
Christians, according to this view, are citizens of both kingdoms. They participate in the common kingdom by fulfilling their civic duties, engaging in cultural activities, and pursuing vocations. They participate in the redemptive kingdom through worship, discipleship, and evangelism within the church.
What 2K Is Not: Addressing Misconceptions
It’s important to understand what the Two Kingdoms doctrine doesn’t imply.
- It is not a call for Christians to withdraw from culture. The doctrine affirms that Christians should be actively involved in their communities, striving for justice and excellence in their work. The goal isn’t to retreat but to engage thoughtfully and biblically.
- It does not mean that the common kingdom is morally neutral. God’s moral law still applies to all people, regardless of their belief. Christians are called to be a positive influence in society, promoting righteousness and opposing evil.
- It does not deny the importance of evangelism. Proclaiming the gospel is a central calling for Christians. The Two Kingdoms doctrine simply provides a framework for understanding how this calling relates to their engagement in the broader culture.
- It is not transformationalism. Transformationalism is the belief that Christians are called to transform the culture. The 2K doctrine believes Christ is not going to return to a Christianized culture, instead the church’s greatest responsibility to the world is to proclaim the gospel and properly administer the sacraments.
Practical Implications
The Two Kingdoms doctrine has several practical implications for Christians:
- It provides clarity on the Christian’s role in society. It helps Christians understand how to engage in culture without compromising their faith.
- It frees Christians from the burden of “transforming” the world. While Christians should strive for good in their communities, they are not ultimately responsible for creating a utopian society.
- It emphasizes the importance of the local church. The church is the primary means through which God’s redemptive work is accomplished.
For example, as a Christian, you are freed to make your cupcakes to the glory of the Lord, but you are not transforming the cupcake industry for Christ. You can enjoy making cupcakes without the pressure of feeling you need to somehow Christianize them.
Navigating the Tension: Living in Both Kingdoms
The Christian life is often characterized by tension, and the Two Kingdoms doctrine is no exception. Living as citizens of both the common and redemptive kingdoms requires careful discernment and a commitment to biblical principles.
Christians are called to be “salt and light” in the world, influencing their communities for good while remaining faithful to their calling as ambassadors for Christ.
Conclusion
The Two Kingdoms doctrine offers a valuable framework for understanding the Christian’s relationship to culture. By recognizing the distinct ways in which God governs the common and redemptive kingdoms, Christians can engage in the world with both wisdom and faithfulness. It’s important to study and consider these principles prayerfully, seeking to live out one’s faith in a way that honors God and serves others. Further study of VanDrunen’s work, and other resources on the Two Kingdoms doctrine, is encouraged for a deeper understanding.
