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What is the kingdom of heaven?


Introduction. The "kingdom of heaven" or "kingdom of God" in New Testament terminology and concept stands for and is indicative of the blessings of God (Mk. 10: 25, 26). Hence, a study of the kingdom is important.

The kingdom of heaven. The term "kingdom" is used about 126 times in the gospels. "Kingdom of heaven" or its equivalent is found about 80 times. John the Baptist came preaching the kingdom of God and indicated it was then imminent (Matt. 3: 2). Jesus' task was to preach the kingdom (Luke 4: 43). The kingdom constituted the core of Jesus' teaching (Matt. 4: 17, 23). Jesus appointed his apostles to teach the kingdom (Matt. 10: 7). The apostles continued to teach the kingdom after Jesus' resurrection (Acts 8: 12, 28: 23, 31).

Meaning of "kingdom of heaven". The kingdom was much prophesied (Dan. 2: 36-45). Joseph waited for the kingdom (Mk. 15: 43). The kingdom came (Mk. 9: 1, Col. 1: 13, 14). Peter was given the keys to the kingdom (means of entry) which he used in Acts chapter two (Matt. 16: 18, 19; Acts 2: 14-41). The kingdom and church are interchangeably used (Matt. 16: 18, 19). The church (ekklesia) denotes the called out saved; the kingdom (basileia), those over whom God reigns (Luke 19: 11-14). The kingdom, then, involves Jesus' Lordship and rule (Luke 6: 46).

Conclusion. The kingdom is not secular (Matt. 20: 25-28, John 18: 36). The kingdom is not eating and drinking, fun and frolic (cf. Rom. 14: 17). The word of God is the seed of the kingdom (Luke 8: II). Entrance into the kingdom (lower kingdom) is gained by the new birth (John 3: 3-7, Mk. 16: 16, Rom. 10: 9,10). Experiencing the ultimate kingdom (upper or heaven) will be enjoyed by the faithful redeemed (2 Pet. 1:6-11). In view of the greater blessings, the least in the kingdom is greater than John the Baptist (Matt. 11: 11).
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