The Kingdoms of This World

The Roman Empire lasted more than one thousand years. For centuries, it had seemed a permanent fixture on the world stage. It had been resilient, overcoming obstacles, eventually defeating every foe. It had survived power struggles and disputes. Its existence seemed like an established fact. But, on this day in AD 476 , the empire finally came to an end, when Emperor Romulus Augustulus abdicated the throne.

It had been an amazing legacy. As authors W.B. Marsh and Bruce Carrick report, there had been ninety Roman emperors. Many people aspired to this lofty position. History records the diverse ways men clamored for power. There were countless plots and conspiracies. Alliances were formed, and deals were cut.

But eventually most of the men who became emperor suffered horrible deaths. Thirty-five were murdered. Six were killed in battle. Three were executed after being captured. Five committed suicide. One died after being struck by lightning.

In spite of this legacy of instability, the empire survived for more than a millennium. Yet it still came to an end. Its rulers may have achieved short-term power and fame. Yet even the most prominent of them reigned a comparatively short time. And many of them, today, are forgotten.

The Bible reminds us that every kingdom in the world eventually will end, but God’s Kingdom “will last forever, and all rulers will serve and obey him” (Daniel 7:27, NLT).

Each of us has choices. Will we pursue the temporary things of this world or a kingdom that will last forever? Will we dedicate our lives to short-term pleasures and power, or seek the eternal rewards of serving God?

Make sure that you make the right commitments, and have the right priorities.