Kingdom of God

This morning I was surprised at Sunday School by one of those "slap yo' forehead and say 'duh!'" moments.  We're starting a series on the "Kingdom of God," and the leader quotes some scholar as saying that the Kingdom of God" was the central theme of Jesus' ministry.  How'd I miss that one?  For instance,

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 3:1-2; ESV)

Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." (Mark 1:14-15; ESV)

As an exercise, do a New Testament search on e-sword or Bible Gateway for the phrases, "Kingdom of God", "Kingdom of Heaven", and "kingdom." It seems that it's not unreasonable to say that this concept is central to the message. Following is an excerpt from the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia...

The “kingdom of God” is one of the most remarkable ideas and phrases of all time, having begun to be used very near the beginnings of history and continuing in force down to the present day...Its use by Jesus is by far its most interesting aspect; for, in the Synoptists, at least, it is His watchword, or a comprehensive term for the whole of His teaching. Of this the ordinary reader of Scripture may hardly be aware, but it becomes evident and significant to the student.

____________
Patrick Parker, is a Christian, husband, father, judo and aikido teacher, Program Director for a Cardiac Rehab, and a Ph.D. Contact: mokurendojo@gmail.com or phone 601.248.7282
____________
Subscribe now for free updates from the Self-Education of Pat