Heaven’s Blueprint for Earthly Rulership

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’” (Genesis 1:26)

From the beginning, God’s intention for mankind was rooted in the concept of dominion. This divine mandate is not about oppression or exploitation but stewardship, responsibility, and partnership with the Creator. The Hebrew word for dominion, mashal (מָשַׁל), signifies ruling with authority, representing God’s sovereignty on earth.

The Meaning of Dominion in Scripture

The biblical understanding of dominion is layered with depth and richness. In Hebrew, words like mashal (to rule), mamlakah (kingdom), and malkut (royal reign) are often used. These terms emphasize rulership and the delegation of divine authority. In Greek, the term basileia (βασιλεία) encompasses the ideas of sovereignty, kingdom, and royal rule. It highlights that dominion is not merely about control but the extension of God’s kingdom principles through His people.

Consider the picture of a shepherd, often used in Scripture to symbolize leadership and dominion (Psalm 23, John 10:11). A shepherd’s dominion over their flock is characterized not by force but by care, provision, and protection. This reflects God’s heart for mankind’s dominion over creation: to nurture, cultivate, and steward the earth as God’s representatives.

Dominion Entrusted to Mankind

To be given dominion means to be established as a sovereign authority over a designated territory. This is evident in Genesis 1:26, where God not only created mankind but appointed them as governors over the earth. In this role, humans were to reflect God’s character, embody His values, and exercise His authority.

Adam and Eve’s placement in the Garden of Eden was not arbitrary. It was a strategic act of God to establish them as stewards over a specific territory. Their task was to tend and keep the garden (Genesis 2:15). This was their realm of dominion—a microcosm of God’s greater kingdom. They were to govern the garden, extend its boundaries, and bring it under the influence of heaven.

God’s Original Plan for Mankind

God’s intention for mankind goes beyond mere survival or religious activity. It is about establishing His kingdom on earth. Here are seven aspects of God’s original plan for mankind, with corresponding biblical illustrations:

1. To Establish a Family of Spirit Sons, Not Servants
   “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)
   God’s desire was to have children who reflect His nature, not slaves bound by religion.
2. To Establish a Kingdom, Not a Religious Organization
   Jesus consistently preached, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17) His mission was to restore mankind to kingdom living, not to establish another religious system.
3. To Establish a Kingdom of Kings, Not Subjects
   “You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth.” (Revelation 5:10)
   Believers are called to reign with Christ, exercising spiritual authority.
4. To Establish a Commonwealth of Citizens, Not Religious Members
   Citizenship in God’s kingdom comes with privileges and responsibilities. “But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20)
5. To Establish Relationship with Man, Not a Religion
   “I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (Jeremiah 31:33)
   God’s desire is for intimate fellowship, not mere ritual observance.
6. To Extend His Heavenly Government to Earth
   The Lord’s Prayer embodies this: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10)
7. To Influence Earth from Heaven Through Mankind
   The church is God’s agency for bringing His heavenly influence to earth: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

What Is a Kingdom?

Understanding dominion requires understanding the nature of a kingdom. Every kingdom has these essential components:

1. A King and Lord: Authority flows from the king (Psalm 24:1).
   Example: Jesus, the King of kings, exercises sovereign authority over all creation (Revelation 19:16).
2. A Territory: The earth is the Lord’s domain (Psalm 24:1).
   Humanity is tasked with stewarding this territory on God’s behalf.
3. A Constitution: The Word of God is the kingdom’s covenant, expressing the King’s mind and will (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
4. A Citizenry: Believers live under the King’s rule, seeking His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).
5. Law: Kingdom principles set the standard for living (Psalm 19:7-8).
6. Privileges: The King guarantees the rights and benefits of His citizens (Philippians 4:19).
7. A Code of Ethics: God’s people reflect His character through their conduct (Galatians 5:22-23).
8. An Army: Angels and believers are part of God’s kingdom security (Psalm 91:11-12).
9. A Commonwealth: Kingdom resources are shared among its citizens (Acts 4:32-35).
10. A Social Culture: Kingdom culture is expressed through righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).

The Practical Application of Dominion

How can believers advance God’s kingdom and exercise dominion in their lives?

1. Stewardship: Take responsibility for the resources and opportunities God has entrusted to you.
   Pull Quote: “Dominion begins with stewardship. When we honor God with what we have, we unlock the potential for kingdom influence.”
2. Representation: Reflect God’s character in every area of life. Let your words, actions, and decisions point others to the King.
3. Prayer and Intercession: Jesus taught His disciples to pray for God’s kingdom to come (Matthew 6:10). Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s purposes and invites His power into our circumstances.
4. Engagement: Use your gifts to influence culture, business, and relationships for God’s glory.
5. Unity: Work with other believers to advance God’s kingdom purposes. “Where there is unity, God commands His blessing.” (Psalm 133:1-3)

Conclusion

Dominion is not a call to dominate but to represent the King of kings faithfully. As His ambassadors, we are called to bring heaven’s influence to earth, reflecting His love, wisdom, and authority in every aspect of life. Let us embrace our kingdom mandate with courage and conviction, knowing that we serve a God whose plans for us are good and whose kingdom will never end.