fecotw.jpg

Sermon for January 22, 2012 - The Preaching Ministry Of Jesus - Matthew 4:12-17

Home
Holy Bible Overview
Holy Bible Overview - Part 2
Ten Commandments
God's Laws For Mankind
Prophecies Fulfilled By The Messiah
Jewish Messianic Texts
Doctrinal Statement
Deity
Visual Relativity of Size Theory
Associates and Links
Sermon for December 30, 2012 - This Weeks sermon - Back To The Basics
Sermon for December 23, 2012 - This Weeks sermon - The Visit Of The Wise Men - Matthew 2:1-12
Sermon for December 16, 2012 - This Weeks sermon - Jesus And Immanuel Matthew - 1:18-25
Sermon For December 9, 2012 - Mary, Mother Of Jesus - Luke 1:26-28
Sermon for December 2, 2012 - Life After Death
Sermon for November 25, 2012 - The Problem Of Suffering
Sermon for November 18, 2012 - Making Much Of Sin
Sermon for November 11, 2012 - Preach The Word! - 2nd Timothy 4:1-4
Sermon for November 4, 2012 - Those that Cherry-Pick Christian Morals
Sermon for October 28, 2012 - How Would Jesus Vote? Matters of Life and Death - Exodus 20:13
Sermon for October 21, 2012 - Finding A Way In The Will Of God - Romans 1:10
Sermon for October 14, 2012 - Called To Be Saints - Romans 1:7
Sermon for October 7, 2012 - Basics For Living In Christ - Colossians 3:1-11
Sermon for September 30, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Second Coming
Sermon for September 23, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Resurrection Of Jesus
Sermon for September 16, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Virgin Birth
Sermon for September 9, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Lords Supper
Sermon for September 2, 2012 - Why I Believe In Baptism
Sermon for August 26, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Gospel Of Christ
Sermon for August 19, 2012 - Why I Believe In Undenominational Christianity
Sermon for August 12, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Church
Sermon for August 5, 2012 - Why I Believe In Jesus Christ
Sermon for July 29, 2012 - Why I Believe In The Bible
Sermon for July 22, 2012 - Why I Believe In God
Sermon for July 15, 2012 - The Flesh And The Spirit: Which Shall We Serve?
Sermon for July 8, 2012 - Building To Withstand The Storms - Matthew 7:24-27
Sermon for July 1, 2012 - Who Will Enter The Kingdom Of Heaven? - Matthew 7:21-23
Sermon for June 24, 2012 - Watch Out For Wolves! - Matthew 7:15-20
Sermon for June 17, 2012 - Are You On The Right Way? - Matthew 7:13-14
Sermon for June 10, 2012 - The Golden Rule - Matthew 7:12
Sermon for June 3, 2012 - To Judge Or Not To Judge - Matthew 7:1-6
Sermon for May 27, 2012 - Gaining Mastery Over Mammon - Matthew 6:19-24
Sermon for May 20, 2012 - Prayer That Pleases God - Matthew 6:5-15
Sermon for May 13, 2012 - Charity That Pleases God - Matthew 6:1-4
Sermon for May 6, 2012 - Responding To Evil - Matthew 5:38-42
Sermon for April 29, 2012 - The Great Commission - Matthew 28:16-20
Sermon for April 22, 2012 - Alternatives To The Resurrection - Matthew 28:11-15
Sermon for April 15, 2012 - The Witnesses Of The Resurrection - Matthew 28:1-10
Sermon for April 8, 2012 - Three Parts - Matthew 27:22 - 28:10
Sermon for April 1, 2012 - Two Parts - Matthew 26:69 - 27:2
Sermon for March 25, 2012 - Three Parts - Matthew 26:26 - 50
Sermon for March 18, 2012 - The Judgment Of The Nations - Matthew 25:31-46
Sermon for March 11, 2012 - 2 Parts - Matthew 5:20 & 5:21-26
Sermon for March 4, 2012 - The Influence Of The Kingdom - Matthew 5:13-16
Sermon for February 26, 2012 - The Beatitudes - II - Matthew 5:3-12
Sermon for February 19, 2012 - The Beatitudes - I - Matthew 5:3-12
Sermon for February 12, 2012 - Introduction To The Sermon On The Mount - Matthew 5:1-2
Sermon for February 5, 2012 - The Itinerant Ministry Of Jesus - Matthew 4:23-25
Sermon for January 29, 2012 - The Discipling Ministry Of Jesus - Matthew 4:18-22
Sermon for January 22, 2012 - The Preaching Ministry Of Jesus - Matthew 4:12-17
Sermon for January 15, 2012 - The Temptation Of Jesus - Matthew 4:1-11
Sermon for January 8, 2012 - The Baptism Of Jesus - Matthew 3:13-17
Sermon for January 1, 2012 - Preparing The Way Of The Lord - Matthew 3:1-12
Sermon for December 25, 2011 - The Early Years Of Jesus - Matthew 2:13-23
Sermon for December 18, 2011 - The Visit Of The Wise Men - Matthew 2:1-12
Sermon for December 11, 2011 - This Weeks sermon - Jesus And Immanuel Matthew 1:18-25
Sermon for December 4, 2011 - This Weeks sermon - Matthew 1:1-17
Sermon for November 27, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 18:37-38
Sermon for November 20, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:20-23
Sermon for November 13, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:20-26
Sermon for November 6, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:6-19
Sermon for October 30, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:2-3
Sermon for October 23, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:1-5
Sermon for October 16, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 17:1-26
Sermon for October 9, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 15:8
Sermon for October 2, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 13:34-35
Sermon for September 25, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 8:42
Sermon for September 18, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 8:12 - 36
Sermon for September 11, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 7:17 - 39
Sermon for September 4, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 6:67 7:9
Sermon for August 28, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 5:37 6:27
Sermon for August 21, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 4:35-5:30
Sermon for August 14, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 4:10-14
Sermon for August 7, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 3:1-4:26
Sermon for July 31, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 2:1-25
Sermon for July 24, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 1:19-51
Sermon for July 17, 2011 - The Sermon for This Week is - John 1:9-18
Sermon for July 10, 2011 - This weeks Sermon is Book of John Verses - John 1:1-8
Sermon for July 3, 2011 - This weeks Sermon is Christian Apologetics Three Parts
Sermon for June 26, 2011 - Sermon is - Our Dependence Upon The New Testament
Sermon for June 19, 2011 - Sermon is - The Historical Jesus
Sermon for June 12, 2011 - Sermon is - Introduction To Christian Apologetics
Sermon for June 5, 2011 - Universalism Part - Four of Four
Sermon for May 29, 2011 - Universalism Part - Three of Four
Sermon for May 22, 2011 - Universalism Part - Two of Four
Sermon for May 15, 2011 - Universalism Part - One of Four
Sermon for May 8, 2011 - This weeks Sermon is in Two Parts
Sermon for May 1, 2011 - God's Great Book
Easter Sermons For April 24, 2011 - Part 4 of 4, The Celebration Of Easter
Easter Sermons For April 23, 2011 - Part 3 of 4 The Significance Of The Resurrection Of Christ
Easter Sermons For April 22, 2011 - Part 2 of 4, The Passion Of The Christ
Easter Sermons For April 21, 2011 - Part 1 of 4 The Lord's Supper
Sermon for April 17, 2011 - Are You Ready For Your Journey Into Eternity?
Sermon for April 10, 2011 - 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 - Hearts Wide Open
Sermon for April 3, 2011 - 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 - The Ministry Of Reconciliation
Sermon for March 27, 2011 - 2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Do Not Become Discouraged (Faint Not)
Sermon for March 20, 2011 - 2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed By Beholding

Matthew 6:9-13 - After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

 

The Sermon for This Week is: The Preaching Ministry Of Jesus - Matthew 4:12-17 - Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

INTRODUCTION

 

1. In Matthew 4:12-17, we read of Jesus’ public ministry in Galilee...

a. Which followed the imprisonment of John the Baptist - Matthew 4:12 - Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;

b. Which began at Capernaum, on the edge of the Sea of Galilee - Matthew 4:13 - And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

c. Which fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah - Matthew 4:14-16 - That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. - Isaiah 9:1-2 - Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

 

2. His public ministry involved “preaching”...

a. Matthew 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

b. Compare also - Matthew 4:23 - And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

 

3. The word “preach” (Gr., kerux) means “to herald, to proclaim”...

a. But what was the message Jesus was proclaiming?

b. Is it a message that should be proclaimed today?

 

[In this study our focus will be on (Matthew 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.), as we seek to understand the message proclaimed by Jesus during His public ministry. From this verse we learn first that...]

 

I. JESUS PREACHED REPENTANCE

 

A. HE CALLED UPON PEOPLE TO REPENT...

 

1. Just as John the Baptist did - Matthew 3:2 - And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

2. As Jesus would say later: “For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” - Matthew 9:13 - But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

 

B. WHAT DOES REPENT MEAN...?

 

1. Many people have misconceptions concerning repentance

a. E.g., that repentance is “sorrow”

1) But repentance is an outcome of sorrow - cf. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 - Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

2) Sorrow leads to repentance; sorrow itself is not repentance!

b. E.g., that repentance is “a changed life”

1) Thinking that repentance is a converted life

2) But repentance and conversion are two separate things - cf. Acts 3:19 - Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

a) Peter says “Repent therefore and be converted”

b) If repentance means the same as conversion, then Peter was redundant

 

2. W. E. Vine defines “repentance” as:

a. A “change of mind”

b. That which “involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God”

 

3. Repentance is therefore “a change of mind” in which we decide to “turn from sin and turn to God”

a. Which is preceded by sorrow

b. And followed by a changed life

-- Jesus was therefore calling upon people to change their minds regarding sin, because of what He taught about the kingdom (more on that shortly)

 

C. DOES REPENTANCE NEED TO BE PROCLAIMED TODAY...?

 

1. Most certainly!

a. Repentance is to be preached in Jesus’ name to all nations - Luke 24:46-47 - And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

b. God now calls men everywhere to repent - Acts 17:30 - And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

c. Thus Paul preached to both Jews and Gentiles that they should repent - Acts 26:20 - But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

 

2. Wherever there is sin, the message of repentance needs to be proclaimed!

a. People need to be told to “change their minds” (repent)

b. They need to “turn to God, and do works befitting repentance” - cf. Acts 26:20 - But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. - Matthew 3:8 - Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

 

-- Any gospel preaching that does not include a clarion call to repent is not the true gospel!

 

[In calling people to repent, Jesus proclaimed why they needed to change their minds and turn from sin to God: “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” This leads to our next point...]

 

II. JESUS PREACHED THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

 

A. THIS WAS A MAJOR THEME OF HIS PREACHING...

 

1. Just as it was with John the Baptist - Matthew 3:2 - And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

2. It was the focus of His itinerant ministry - Matthew 4:23 - And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

a. The theme of His Sermon on the Mount - Matthew 5:3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 5:10 - Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 5:19-20 - Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 6:33 - But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! - Matthew 7:21 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

b. The theme of many of His parables - e.g., Matthew 13:24 - Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: - Matthew 13:31 - Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: - Matthew 13:33 - Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. - Matthew 13:44 - Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. - Matthew 13:45 - Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: - Matthew 13:47 - Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

 

3. It was the theme of the Limited Commission - Matthew 10:7 - And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

-- During this time, the kingdom of heaven was “at hand” (drawing near)

 

B. WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN...?

 

1. It is the same thing as “the kingdom of God”

a. Some try to make a distinction (e.g., Scofield Reference Bible)

b. But a quick comparison of the gospels indicate the terms refer to the same thing

1) Cf. Matthew 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. - with Mark 1:14-15 - Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

2) Cf. Matthew 5:3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - with Luke 6:20 - And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.

3) Cf. Matthew 13:31 - Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: with Mark 4:30-31 - And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:

c. Matthew used the expression “kingdom of heaven” almost exclusively, while the other gospel writers used the phrase “kingdom of God”

d. It may be that since Matthew wrote his gospel to the Jews, he chose to used the phrase “kingdom of heaven”...

1) Because of the Jews’ reluctance to use the name of God (out of reverence)

2) Because of the Jews’ misconception of the coming kingdom

a) Many anticipated a physical kingdom

b) The expression “heaven” (literally, “heavens”) would emphasize a spiritual kingdom

2. The kingdom of heaven involves four interrelated concepts

a. God’s kingship, rule, or recognized sovereignty

1) The term “kingdom” as used by the Jews often stressed the abstract idea of rule or dominion, not a geographical area surrounded by physical boundaries

2) It is used this way by Jesus in Matthew 6:10 - Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. (note the connection between kingdom and will)

-- Thus, the “kingdom of heaven” would involve the rule of heaven in the hearts of men

b. This rule of heaven is spiritual in nature

1) It is not a physical kingdom - cf. John 18:36 - Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

2) But one that is spiritual - cf. Romans 14:17 - For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

c. Its visible manifestation today is in the form of the Lord’s church

1) For the church is that community of souls in whose hearts God is recognized as Sovereign

2) That the church constitutes the kingdom of God on earth, consider:

a) How the term “church” and “kingdom” were used interchangeably - Matthew 16:18 - And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

b) Comments made to those who were in the church - Colossians 1:13 - We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, - 1 Thessalonians 2:12 - That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

c) The description of those in the churches of Asia - Revelation 1:4 - John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; - Revelation 1:6 - And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. - Revelation 1:9 - I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

d. It has a future element as well as a present one

1) Its future aspect is spoken of by Jesus, Paul, Peter - Matthew 25:34 - hen shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: - 1 Corinthians 15:50 - Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. - 2 Timothy 4:18 - And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. - 2 Peter 1:10-11 - Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

2) Peter described the coming of its future state in 2 Peter 3:10-13 - But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

 

3. Thus the kingdom of heaven today is both present and future

a. In the present sense...

1) It is found wherever the sovereignty of God is accepted in the hearts of men

2) It is a spiritual kingdom, for God rules in the hearts of men

3) Its outward manifestation today is the Lord’s church

4) This rule or kingdom of God was “inaugurated” on the Day of Pentecost (Ac 2)

b. In the future sense...

1) The rule or kingdom of God will be “culminated” with the coming of the Lord

2) It will involve that “news heaven and a new earth in which righteousness dwells”, described by Peter and John - 2 Peter 3 - This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. - Revelation 21 -And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Revelation 22 - And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

3) It will be experienced only by those in the church who are submitting to God’s will today! - cf. Matthew 7:21-23 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. - 2 Peter 3:13-14 - Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

C. DOES THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN NEED TO BE PROCLAIMED TODAY...?

 

1. Most certainly!

a. Philip “preached the things concerning the kingdom of God” - Acts 8:12 - But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

b. The apostle Paul in his preaching and teaching:

1) Spoke of the challenges in entering the kingdom in the future sense - Acts 14:22 - Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

2) Reasoned and persuaded with people concerning the kingdom - Acts 19:8 - And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

3) Had gone among the Ephesians, “preaching the kingdom of God” - Acts 20:25 - And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

4) Solemnly testified of the kingdom of God to the Jews in Rome - Acts 28:23 - And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

c. In his epistles, Paul wrote of:

1) The nature of the kingdom - Romans 14:17 - For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

2) Those who will not inherit the kingdom - 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. - Galatians 5:21 - Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. - Ephesians 5:5 - For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

3) Jesus giving the kingdom to God when He returns - 1 Corinthians 15:24-26 - Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

4) How flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom - 1 Corinthians 15:50 - Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

5) How we are now in the kingdom - Colossians 1:13 - Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

6) His companions as fellow workers for the kingdom - Colossians 4:11 - And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.

7) How we might be counted worthy of the kingdom - 2 Thessalonians 1:5 - Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

8) God calling us into His kingdom and glory - 2 Thessalonians 2:12 - That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

9) Jesus judging us at His appearing and His kingdom - 2 Timothy 4:1 - I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

10) The Lord preserving him for His heavenly kingdom - 2 Timothy 4:18 - And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

d. Hebrews refers to our receiving a kingdom which can’t be shaken - Hebrews 12:28 - Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

e. James described the faithful poor as “heirs of the kingdom” - James 2:5 - Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

f. Peter wrote of how we might have an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord 2 Peter 1:10-11 - Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

g. John described himself as a brother and companion in the kingdom of Jesus Christ - Revelation 1:9 - I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

 

2. There is a slight difference in our message, however...

a. John the Baptist, Jesus, His disciples in the Limited Commission...all proclaimed the kingdom “at hand” (drawing near)

1) For the rule of God as foretold by the prophets was about to be manifested - cf. Mark 1:14-15 - Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

2) During Jesus’ earthly ministry that kingdom (reign) was yet future

-- But that was the “good news” (gospel) of the kingdom then: it was near!

b. However, after the ascension of Christ, the preaching of the kingdom proclaimed it both present and future

1) The rule of God is now being fully manifested in the person of Jesus Christ - cf. Matthew 28:18 - And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. - Ephesians 1:20-22 - Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, - 1 Peter 3:22 - Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

2) Those who “gladly received” the message can be added by the Lord Himself to His church or kingdom (i.e., the community of believers who submit to His authority) - cf. Acts 2:36-41 - Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. - Acts 2:47 - Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. - Colossians 1:13 - Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: - Revelation 1:9 - I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

3) Those who persevered to the end could inherit the heavenly and everlasting kingdom of our Lord - Acts 14:22 - Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. - 2 Peter 1:10-11 - Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

 

-- This is the “good news” (gospel) of the kingdom now: it is both now and coming!

 

CONCLUSION

 

1. In “The Preaching Ministry Of Jesus”, two themes permeated His message...

a. The need to repent

b. For the kingdom of heaven was at hand

 

2. As we fulfill the Great Commission today (Matthew 28:18-20 - And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.), our themes should be similar...

a. The kingdom of heaven has come and is coming (implied in “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.”)

b. The need to repent (implied in “Make disciples of all the nations”)

 

If you desire to experience the bliss of the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior, you must do the Father’s Will (cf. Matthew 7:21-23 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? nd then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.) and be in the kingdom of His dear Son today (cf. Colossians 1:13 - Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:).

 

Have you submitted to the gospel of the kingdom as proclaimed by our Lord’s apostles?

 

Matthew 28:19-20 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

 

Mark 16:15-16 - And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

 

Prayer: Lord I truly thank You for giving me the opportunity to present these words to my brethrens. I pray that You will give them Your eternal blessings and accept them into Your heart - this  I pray in the name of Thy Son, Jesus, the Messiah, Your only begotten son which Ye sent to save mankind from themselves. Amen

 

Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. - Ephesians 6:23-24

 

This sermon is in the Public Domain - Free for all to use with the only requirement: That it never be used for profit.