If I had to hang my hat on one single verse as to why I believe George Eldon Ladd was correct about Inaugurated Eschatology, I’d have to pick Matt. 12:28:
“But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
Simple question: did Jesus cast out demons by the Spirit of God? I think the Gospel of Luke clearly indicates that the answer to this question is “Yes!” After all, in Luke 4:1 we’re told that Jesus was “full of the Holy Spirit.” From there, we begin to read of Jesus’ supernatural exploits, including his sovereignty over the demonic realm.
Yes, Jesus cast out demons by the Spirit of God. Accordingly, the kingdom of God broke into the world. The rule and reign of God was inaugurated.
Luke 11:19-20 is also powerful. Same basic story buy St Luke tells them flatly that it is by God that the kingdom came. Granted it can be used for a kingdom now” view…
Isn’t Jesus quoted in Luke saying , “All prophecy has been fulfilled”? IF so, then the kingdom of God on earth has been inaugurated by Christ.