DIFINING THE KINGNDOM OF HEAVEN
Welcome in Jesus name.
This is an introduction to the teaching: DIFINING THE KINGNDOM OF HEAVEN, from the series “the parables of Jesus.”
INTRODUCTION
1. In our previous lesson, which was an introductory lesson, we observed that the general “theme” of Jesus’ parables was “the kingdom of heaven”
• Many of the parables start with “The kingdom of heaven is like...” - Mt 13:24,31,33,44, 45, 47
• In explaining why He spoke in parables, Jesus made reference to “the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven” - Mt 13:11. And He replied to them, To you it has been given to know the secrets and mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.
• We also noted that “the kingdom of heaven” was the theme of...
o Jesus’ itinerant ministry - Mt 4:17. From that time Jesus began to preach, crying out, Repent (change your mind for the better, heartily amend your ways, with abhorrence of your past sins), for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
o His sermon on the mount - Mt 5:3,10,19-20; 6:10,33; 7:21
• Because “the kingdom of heaven” is such a prominent subject in the parables of Jesus (as well as His overall preaching)... It might serve a good purpose to begin our study of the parables with a careful look at what “the kingdom of heaven” means
• With a proper definition of “the kingdom of heaven” fresh in our minds, we are more likely to benefit from our Lord’s teaching on this wonderful subject!
• In Matthew 13, we begin to read about the parables of Jesus.
2. The disciples were somewhat confused about the nature of Jesus’ teaching. Thus, they asked Him about it (Matt. 13:10).And the disciples came, and said unto him, why speakest thou unto them in parables?
3. Jesus’ response point His followers to the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 13:11).He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
4. Jesus speaks about the dual role of the parables.
• The reveal the truth.
• They conceal the truth.
5. He also notes that the purpose of the parable is for His followers to learn something about the kingdom of heaven.
This was the kingdom that had been foretold by the prophets of old (Dan. 2:44).And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.
6. Often Jesus would preface a parable with words that noted that He was speaking of the kingdom of God
Matt. 13:24.Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field.
• Since the parables focus mainly on the kingdom, it is appropriate for us to briefly define and examine this kingdom.
• There are four aspects of the kingdom that we will study in this teaching.
Dr.Tg Badia
