Kingship
Part Four
It’s been established that God’s kingdom’s rule is forever but was introduced by John the Baptizer in Matt. 3:2,
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
It was prophesied that John would be the one to prepare the way for the first coming of Messiah, Son of David, and His kingdom reign (2 Sam. 7:12-13, 16) similar to believers preparing the way for the Second Coming and His final kingdom reign.
Matthew used the expression kingdom of heaven fifty-five times in his gospel account and with good reason; he was a Levite. Being an educated man with strict religious training the Romans undoubtedly forced him into public service; he became a tax collector.
What does that phrase ‘at hand’ mean? Simply put, when something is in your hand it’s accessible, right at your fingertips. That’s what John was saying, “The invisible, heavenly, eternal kingdom of Dan. 2:44 was available, in God’s open-hand:
And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever. Daniel 2:44
Being well-versed in Old Testament prophecy Matthew desired his people to realize Jesus was the One who made that heavenly kingdom accessible. Satan understood that prophecy so he tempted Jesus with the kingdoms of the world (Matt. 4:8), the lower story, but Jesus knew the upper, heavenly one was far greater.
His ministry began with Holy Spirit power (Luke 4:14) as He focused again on the entry point of kingdom living: repentance. It’s true for us as well, recognizing our sin and inability to change and, therefore, receiving His forgiveness is the gate code for the kingdom of heaven. Jesus immediately taught that whosoever would humble himself in that way, become poor in spirit, the kingdom (Matt. 5:3) would rightfully belong to them. He also reminded His listeners that persecution for doing what’s right went hand-in-hand with kingship.
Not only that but whoever obeyed God (Matt. 5:19b) and taught others would be called great in the kingdom of heaven. However, it’s more than obeying the Ten Commandments like the Pharisees (vs. 20); Jesus taught that it was about the heart which must’ve been why He followed up with the Lord’s Prayer (6:9-13): Kingdom Come!
Jesus went on teaching that those who call Him Lord (7:21-23) and don’t obey prove they don’t know Him; it’s all about relationship. Even a Roman soldier was commended for his faith (8:5-13) and Jesus followed up with a reference to a special, heavenly table set for many in the final kingdom. I want a seat at that table so I follow His instructions, teach others, and develop my faith through intimacy with Him. It’s a good plan, don’t you think?
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