WHAT IS THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM?
The apostle Matthew recorded that Jesus’ ministry in Galilee was in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, saying that the people of Galilee who “sat in darkness have seen a great light” (Matt. 10:16 quoting Isa. 9:1-2). He also reported that Jesus went all about Galilee preaching “the gospel of the kingdom.” What is the gospel of the kingdom?
The word “gospel” means “good news.” So, what was this “good news” and of what “kingdom” is Jesus speaking? The “kingdom” is variously spoken of by Jesus as “the kingdom of heaven,” “the kingdom of God,” or simply “the kingdom.” Jesus seemed to use all three phrases interchangeably, so they all must refer to the same kingdom. The location of this kingdom is also described by Jesus in various ways as being “at hand,” “near,” “within,” “coming” and even as he told Pilate, “not of this world” (John 18:36). Yet, one thing was central to Jesus’ kingdom message. He was the One who came as the Heir of David’s throne, the long awaited Messiah and King. As he replied to Pilate, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world” (John 18:37).
Where is the kingdom of heaven? Where is the kingdom of God? Wherever Jesus Christ is King! Have you made Him King of your life? The Kingdom is within you! Have you made Him King of your family? The Kingdom has come to your house! This is the good news, that whoever repents and believes in Jesus is now a citizen of His eternal Kingdom!
This good news was prophesied yet again by the prophet Isaiah who wrote, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns'” (Isa. 52:7).
Watch this video below to see a great explanation of “the gospel of the kingdom” by the Bible Project.