“And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people” (Matthew 4:23 ESV).
The apostle Matthew recorded that Jesus began His ministry by going all about Galilee preaching “the gospel of the kingdom.” Indeed, this seems to be a summary of all of Jesus’ teachings. So, what is the gospel of the kingdom?
The word “gospel” is a translation of the Greek word, “euangelion,” which means “good news.” Jesus came proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom. This 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? Then the Kingdom is within you! Have you made Him King of your family? Then the Kingdom has come to your house! This is the good news, that whoever repents and believes in Jesus as Lord and Savior is now a citizen of His eternal Kingdom!
We are those who have recognized Christ as King. Now, we too have been sent out as messengers of this Good News, proclaiming the King has come, the King is coming again. Repent and believe for the Kingdom is at hand!
PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, we believe. We have heard the Good News of Your Son and we have trusted in Him as Lord and Savior. Fill us afresh with Your Spirit today that we might proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom to all. In Jesus’ name, amen.