Topic > The Bible in the Upside Down Kingdom by Donald B. Kraybill

The book The Upside Down Kingdom by Donald B. Kraybill analyzes the Bible with a different approach adopted by readers. The main purpose of the book is to help readers understand the kingdom of God in an upside-down world. Kraybill shows how upside down and radical the kingdom was in first century Palestine and how it is the same in today's society. In other words Kraybill illustrated the picture that the people at the top of the pyramids, the rich and powerful, will be at the bottom of the pyramid in the kingdom of God if they are not humbled by the poor and hungry. The book also clarifies the importance of practicing religious principles through the teachings of Christ in relation to the poor and suffering. More specifically one is not to seek the kingdom of heaven from above but rather find the salvation of Christ through active compassion and empathy for those in need. Furthermore, the first chapter supports the main theme by elaborating on the kingdom of God. The main focus that Kraybill places in this chapter is the concept that below is above. For example, those at the top of the food chain, such as the rich and powerful, will be ranked at the bottom when they enter the Kingdom of God. Individuals who are at the bottom, such as the poor and homeless, will be ranked at the top of the food chain next to God, where their suffering and needs will end. “We can capture the idea of ​​reversal by thinking of two scales side by side, one representing the kingdom of God, the other the kingdoms of this world” (Kraybill, 2011, p. 141-142). The Kraybill representation of the Kingdom of God is that of people who have brought forward their beliefs to embrace and serve God's intentions, authority, and ruling power. Additionally, chapter six s...... half of the document ......concepts presented in the perils of wealth and, if believed, all Americans are liable to fall into the perils of wealth. Another question that was asked was about celebrities and the kingdom of God. Celebrities are known to donate large sums of money to different charitable programs throughout their lives. However, most of them do so under the premise of wanting to pay less taxes at the end of each tax year. I wonder what Kraybill's thoughts are on these celebrities and their chances of entering the kingdom of God. They would be saved in the eyes of God for their donations which are essentially going to those in need, even if the root of the donation was for a personal gain? Additionally, Kraybill did a great job writing The Upside Down Kingdom and I would recommend this read to anyone looking for more in-depth information on Bible interpretations.