God's Kingdom does not break into this world without opposition. Paul wrote: "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18). While Paul's first-century readers were enduring suffering, they were also the ones that would have "the glory" revealed to them. The temporary glory of the Old Covenant period was becoming a permanent—and ongoing—glory for New Covenant believers. God's Kingdom began (redemption accomplished) and continues to grow in history (redemption applied), until His Kingdom is full and complete.