What a wonderful thought is expressed by the beloved Paul in Romans 8. The creation is waiting for God’s people to be in charge. To set things in order.

I have heard often these days that this text refers to what is going on in the earth now. That there is a wonderful revival taking place in the world, and as it manifests itself there will arise the phenomenon of the fully engaged Christian man and woman. These new creations will change their neighborhoods and their cities and… the creation will be satisfied.

I know the heart of those who speak these things and I offer no criticism. There is a kernel of truth in “kingdom now” theology. Surely Jesus is among His people. He transforms them. The entire Roman Empire was transformed by the surfacing of the people of God. Why not believe for such things again, only this time the world?

Quite possible. Quite wonderful to anticipate. But Romans 8 clearly does not speak of such a happening. Allow me to follow Paul’s train of thought in the text. It is clearly a case of now and then. The then being after the appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ. To this can be added the agreement of John, Daniel, and Isaiah.

First Paul.

He says that now we are children of God. If children, we must be heirs. Then. Joint-heirs with Christ. Then. As Jesus said, the meek truly do inherit this earth. Then. Now, says Paul, we suffer as did Christ. But then, also like Christ, we will be glorified, as in the resurrection of our bodies. This present age, now, is a time of suffering. But later the glory shall be revealed in us. Think transfiguration. The creation is now waiting for that glorification of God’s people. The creation is cursed, now. The creation will be delivered, then. Delivered from bondage to the glorious liberty of children of God. Then. Birth pangs, now, groaning, as we wait for these bodies to be redeemed.

John agrees. I John 3:2.

We are sons of God, now. But when Jesus is revealed, we shall be like Him, then. Whoever has this hope (then) purifies himself (now).

And Daniel, Daniel 7:22 ff.

The Ancient of Days (Jesus) comes and takes the kingdom of this world from the antichrist. Thus is Jesus revealed. But immediately after this event, the saints, the children of God, come and take the kingdom. Thus they are revealed. Then.

And Isaiah (61, 65, 66)

“Those who formerly mourned in Zion [children of God] shall be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord.” He shall be glorified, revealed, in that hour. The people thus manifested will be called the posterity the Lord has blessed. Righteousness and praise will spring forth before the nations. Then.

Once more, John, in Revelation. (22:3, 21:7, 21:9 ff)

A city comes down out of heaven. Jesus is revealed. Then the bride is revealed. Overcomers inherit all things. The bride is filled with the glory of God.

These promises and descriptions are our hope. Kingdom now folks are adamant that we should not allow Biblical literalists to “steal” the promises of God and make them all apply to the future.