Jesus was speaking in this scripture
passage to a group of people who had followed Him along the Sea of Galilee and
up a mountain—where they all sat down and He taught them. He was giving them
instruction on the right way to live—not in a legalistic way—but in a way that
would please our Heavenly Father and allow them…and us…to have good
relationships with others around us. Life is all about relationships. Us to God—God
to us—and us with other human beings. Right living—righteousness.
Going to heaven is the ultimate goal for so
many people—even in Jesus day. Is that the Kingdom of Heaven? The phrase “kingdom of heaven” is only found
in the book of Matthew. In Greek this word “heaven” refers to the seat of order
of things eternal—or where God dwells. “Kingdom” refers to a territory subject
to a ruler or a king. Additionally, the kingdom is of heavenly or divine origin
and nature. Jesus used this phrase “kingdom of heaven” or “kingdom of God” to
illustrate the perfect order He was about to establish. So since Jesus
established this “kingdom,” it is already here. Usually it is something that
people look forward to…after an earthly death. In Philippians 3:20we read…For our citizenship is in heaven, from which
also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ…. Hebrews 12:23 tells us…that we are “enrolled”
in heaven. Read Hebrews 12 for more heavenly discussion. The last two verses
are encouraging…Therefore, since we
receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we
may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a
consuming fire. Hebrews 12:28-29. The
kingdom of heaven cannot be shaken.
No earthquakes there…no tumbling down of buildings, no wars…or even rumors of
wars. Heaven is a wonderful place. The best part of God’s Kingdom is that it
begins when we accept Christ as our Savior…we enter into that kingdom right
away. We don’t have to wait until we die. God opens His arm and we become His
children…in His kingdom immediately. Do you feel those loving arms around you?
RSVP:
Jesus’ invitation today is for you to seek a righteous life, not a legalistic
response to Laws …but a relationship with Him and with His Father. How will you respond to Him?
Prayer
~ Lord Jesus, I seek first a kingdom relationship with You and with our
Heavenly Father, to live in a righteous way that is pleasing to You (Matthew
6:33).
© 2014 by Mickey
M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All
scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise
noted.
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