The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand

"From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" (Matthew 4:17)

This is one of the first statements Matthew records of Jesus' public ministry. It is a command, backed up by authority and the power to execute judgment. He goes on to preach the sermon on the mount. This is filled with harsh condemnation of sin and pronouncements of judgment.

But how do we feel when we read these early, sharp statements by Jesus? Are we terrified? Is he offensive? Do we not like this Jesus? Rather, we, being lost sheep, find this Judge to be a comfort. He pronounces judgment with a sense that he will put everything right. He gives us an option: repent. Why? For the kingdom of heaven is at hand. A very compelling and good reason. Join me, he says. Give up your despair and hopelessness. Follow me. Live for something bigger than yourself.

1. How do you react when you read the words of Jesus condemning sin?

2. What do you want to do when Jesus invites you to repent and follow him? What does that mean for you?

3. Jesus says that the main reason to repent is because the kingdom of heaven is at hand. How could that affect your motives for living today?

-- Charlie