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From Rivalry to Renewal: A Kingdom for Partnership

  • Writer: Raymond Melendez
    Raymond Melendez
  • May 4
  • 3 min read

Across diplomacy, science, and sports, recent events reveal a growing trend toward restoration and cooperation—an echo of a deeper truth revealed in the Holy Scriptures. As nations rebuild trust and rivals mature into respectful partners, we are reminded of the Apostle Paul’s message in Romans 2:11: “For God does not show favoritism.” Just as God’s kingdom operates not on superiority but on partnership, so too does the world's governance operate. Christ, who has supremacy as the head of God's kingdom, models this reality—not as one who dominates but as one who is entrusted, inviting us to join not as owners but as partners.



Entrusted: The Kingdom beyond Ownership


Two people in aprons high-five at a café entrance. One wears a red apron, the other black. The scene is cheerful and urban.

The historic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Iran reflects a profound principle found in the Holy Scriptures: progress arises from partnership and mutual respect. In Romans 2, Paul addresses the concept of ownership. Jesus expands on this, stating that ownership is God's alone (Mark 12:17), encouraging us to partner rather than control. The Saudi-Iran agreement—focused on sovereignty, restraint, and partnership—demonstrates how releasing the grip can lead to progress. Likewise, in God’s Kingdom, we progress not as owners but as partners (Al Jazeera Staff).


Shared Pursuits: The Kingdom of Partnership


The renewed U.S.-China Science and Technology Agreement in late 2024 offers more than a diplomatic reset—it reflects a deeper truth about the power of shared pursuits. During a period of increased tensions, both countries acknowledged that scientific advancement surpasses boundaries, providing a way forward through partnership instead of domination. This mirrors the very nature of God's kingdom. Jesus did not lead with dominance but with invitation—even in his darkest hour, he called others to stay awake with him, to partner, not possess. As co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), we share in God's kingdom and are entrusted with its work. Just as scientific endeavors thrive on mutual respect and common goals, so too does the Kingdom of God (McBride).


Knit Together: Rivalry, Unity, and Partnership


Two giraffes with patterned necks stand against a clear blue sky. The left one looks ahead calmly, while the right shows a playful expression.

The evolving Missouri-Arkansas football rivalry—once fueled by animosity but now marked by respect and mutual understanding—offers a powerful image of what it means to be "knit together" in a shared purpose. As players and fans begin to partner alongside competition, we see a glimpse of the kind of unity described in Mosiah 18:21, where individuals are united in shared purpose. This mirrors Paul’s message in Romans 2:29, that in God's Kingdom, we all are welcomed. Just as rival teams can find mutual respect, so too can individuals be in unity, where everyone is a partner (Matter).


Here I Am: A World Moving Forward

Across global diplomacy, scientific partnership, and even the shifting tone of college football rivalries, a common ground is emerging—one of progress rooted not in dominance, but in partnership. From Moses to Jesus, this declaration signals a spirit awake to God’s voice and partners ready to say, "Here I am." As Christ reminds us, the Father’s house has many rooms (John 14:2). So, whether on the world stage or at the doors of our homes, God's Kingdom advances when partners, without shame, say, “Here I am.”


Works Cited


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