The Upside Down Kingdom

An Examination of the Beatitudes and Jesus’s Counterintuitive Promises

In our sinful world, we often struggle with anxiety, loneliness, and heartache. Everywhere we look, we see broken families and divided communities. How can we truly cultivate God’s kingdom “on earth as it is in heaven” in such a broken place?

In the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:2–12), Jesus urges us to set ourselves apart from the world, living in a counterculture with a new identity rooted in him. The Upside Down Kingdom examines this counterintuitive wisdom and explores its relevance for today. Drawing on insights from the biblical story of redemption, church fathers, Reformation scholars throughout history, and contemporary life, this book equips and encourages readers to get their spiritual bearings in an upside-down world. Author Chris Castaldo ultimately points readers to the kingdom of Christ―not as a set of rules, but as a means of bringing peace and blessing here and now.

1. Opening Credits
2. Dedication
3. Epigraph
4. Introduction
5. Chapter 1: The Poverty That Makes One Rich
6. Chapter 2: When Loss Becomes Gain
7. Chapter 3: Gentleness in a Hostile World
8. Chapter 4: Taste and See
9. Chapter 5: The Face of Mercy
10. Chapter 6: Seeing God
11. Chapter 7: Peace Be with You
12. Chapter 8: Even So, Rejoice
13. Epilogue: When Down Is Up
14. Closing Credits