preaching according to prophecy

Romans 1:1-2 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)

Which he had promised afore
by his prophets in the holy scriptures

Fulfillment of Prophecy on the Horizon

This chapter is focused on preaching according to prophecy pointing to those things which Israel could and should have understood, in light of the prophets, concerning God’s Son the Lord Jesus Christ. The counterpart to this chapter titled "kept secret", deals with prophecy that was veiled to Israel until the unveiling of that prophecy to and through Paul.

Zacharias' Prophecy

As pages are turned from Malachi to the Gospels, from that portion of the bible labeled the Old Testament, to that which is labeled the New Testament, many believe an immediate transition is made from the Old Testament to the New Testament, bringing the Mosaic Covenant to a screeching halt. The reality is that the Mosaic law was still in enforce as testified in the lives of a priest named Zacharias and his wife.

Luke 1:5-6 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

they were both righteous before God
walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless

Though the Mosaic Covenant was still in play, new hope was on the horizon in light of OT prophesies and covenant promises, made to the fathers, regarding the rise of Israel again as the dominate nation among nations.

Unique circumstances surrounded the life of Zacharias and his wife Elisabeth. They were in the twilight years of life when the angel Gabriel revealed that Elisabeth was going to have a son. Zacharias was made dumb till the birth of their son was to be named and to top it all off, Elisabeth was cousin to Mary, the mother of Jesus. At the time when their son was to be circumcised and named, Zacharias’ tongue was loosed when found in agreement, with his wife, that the son’s name should be John and not Zacharias, as suggested by family and friends, according to tradition (Lk 1:5-65).

Recorded in the remainder of Luke 1, is Zacharias’ prophecy given in response to the amazement over the birth of this seemingly special male child. This prophecy must be and can only be interpreted in view of other OT prophecies, regarding Israel’s Messiah, in anticipation of the kingdom of heaven.

Below is Zacharias’ response, laid by side of Ezekiel’s prophecy, which pretty much covers the themes overlaid by the Abrahamic, Davidic and New covenants promising a continuous seed and land, a Messiah and a new beginning.

Ezekiel 36:21-29 But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen, whither they went. 22 Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went. 23 And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. 24 For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. 25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. 26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. 28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. 29 I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you.

For I will take you from among the heathen
and gather you out of all countries
and will bring you into your own land
Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you
A new heart also will I give you
a new spirit will I put within you
I will put my spirit within you
cause you to walk in my statutes
ye shall keep my judgments
ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers
and ye shall be my people
and I will be your God

Luke 1:67-80 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; 70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. 80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel
for he hath visited and redeemed his people
And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David
That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us
To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant
The oath which he sware to our father Abraham
That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear
for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways
To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins

In this chapter, we’re going to look at the ministries of John the Baptist, the Lord Jesus and His disciples pre and post cross ministries in view of prophecies and covenanted promises.

The Forerunner of Jesus Christ

Beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Mark 1:1-3 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God
As it is written in the prophets
Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight

Right on cue, John the Baptist shows up on the scene as the forerunner of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, preparing His way as written in the prophets.

One must be careful in the reading of the opening verse in Mark 1! It isn't saying that John the Baptist was preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Verses go on explaining that in the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, John enters the scene preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. The beginning, of the gospel of Jesus Christ, was jump started via the ministry of John the Baptist. John's entrance and message was in accordance to prophecy and not to be confused with Paul's preaching of Christ, according to mystery... "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began," Romans 16:25

Here's demonstration of the point being made:

In Mark 1:1, is the only occurrence, of the exact phrase 'gospel of Jesus Christ', found in the New Testament.
The phrase 'gospel of Christ', is found only in Paul's epistles; eleven times (Ro 1:16; Ro 15:19,29; 1Co 9:12,18; 2Co 4:4; 2Co 9:13; 2Co 10:14; Ga 1:7; Php 1:27; 1Th 3:2).
The word 'gospel', is found 17 times, in the four Gospels and is tied to the preaching of the kingdom (Mt 4:23; Mt 9:35; Mt 11:5; Mt 24:14; Mt 26:13; Mr 1:1,14-15; Mr 8:35; Mr 10:29; Mr 13:10; Mr 14:9; Mr 16:15; Lu 4:18; Lu 7:22; Lu 9:6; Lu 20:1).
'Gospel' is found, but six (6) times in book of Acts (Ac 8:25; Ac 14:7,21; Ac 15:7; Ac 16:10; Ac 20:24).
Too long to list, 'gospel' is found 69 times, overall in Paul's epistles.
'Gospel' is found five (5) times in the general epistles (Heb 4:2; 1Pe 1:12,25; 1Pe 4:6,17).
Found once in Revelations (Re 14:6).

John the Baptist didn't preach the 'gospel of Jesus Christ', but preached the kingdom gospel with focus on Israel's Messiah, the son of God... "And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God." John 1:34

John the Baptist's Message

John’s message was one of repentance and cleansing as he preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

Mark 1:4-5 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

John did baptize in the wilderness
and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins
And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem
and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins

It is absolutely, positivity IMPOSSIBLE to understand John’s baptism, without reference to Moses’ baptism with water, followed by the institution of the divers' washings under the Mosaic Covenant. John the Baptist is now leading the way in preparing the Jew for the establishment of the New Covenant with Israel.

As this chapter is focused on a message, concerning the preaching Jesus Christ according to prophecy, the significance of baptism with water, in of itself, is dealt with extensively under the chapters titled, "righteousness of God with the law’" and "circumcision justified by faith".

The stage was being set for putting the earthly kingdom domain back into the hands of God’s chosen nation to once again rise above all other nations. Arriving just ahead of Israel’s Messiah was the prophesied forerunner of Christ, John the Baptist. Just one thing stood in the way of Israel getting its wish. Actually, two things stood in Israel’s way, but John was addressing the immediate concern. Having been established in a ‘by faith’ relationship with God, Israel was called upon once again to repent, as always before, in receiving the blessings of God.

Matthew 3:1-3 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight

The demanded response was repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. If one can simply get a grip on a ‘by faith’ relationship, as being presented in this Theme Study, using a KJB, while taking into consideration that Israel is focus of the Gospels, under yet an Old Testament setting, the kingdom gospel and baptism for the remission of sins, then makes perfect sense!

Matthew 3:5-11 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan
were baptized of him in Jordan
confessing their sins
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism
he said unto them, O generation of vipers
who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance
And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father
And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees
therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance
but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear
he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire

John’s baptism with water and the confession of sins, on behalf the Jews, before pending prophesied judgment that would precede the reestablishment of the earthly kingdom back to Israel, under a prophesied Messiah, was focus of John’s message.

gospel of Jesus Christ A

John the Baptist's message

Jesus and the Kingdom Gospel

A Prophet Like unto Moses

After the temptation of Jesus, in the wilderness, He also begins proclaiming the kingdom at hand. Jesus and His disciples end up baptizing more disciples than John the Baptist.

Matthew 4:17, 23 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

Jesus began to preach, and to say
Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand
Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues
preaching the gospel of the kingdom

In view of prophecy, Israel was expecting a prophet, like unto Moses, to show up on the scene and these two prophets had much in common:

Deliverer of a nation
Baptized with water
Gave commandments from God
Displayed signs & wonders
Heads of households

Acts 3:22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.

For Moses truly said unto the fathers
A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren
like unto me

Jesus & Kingdom Gospel B

1. Deliverer of a nation

Zacharias put much emphases on the Lord visiting His people to redeem them in freeing them from their enemies to serve without fear. We will start there.

Exodus 6:1-6 Then the LORD said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh: for with a strong hand shall he let them go, and with a strong hand shall he drive them out of his land. 2 And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the LORD: 3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them. 4 And I have also established my covenant with them, to give them the land of Canaan, the land of their pilgrimage, wherein they were strangers. 5 And I have also heard the groaning of the children of Israel, whom the Egyptians keep in bondage; and I have remembered my covenant. 6 Wherefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgments:

Then the LORD said unto Moses
Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh
I will redeem you
with a stretched out arm
and with great judgments

Israel was under Egyptian bondage and the LORD was going to act as a kinsman redeemer, but His buyback was a stretched out arm with great judgments. Redeeming something takes on various meanings in the OT, but within the context of Zacharias’ prophecy, it parallels with Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. Israel was under Roman bondage at time of Johns’ and Jesus’ births.

Redemption Without the Cross

Here’s a prime case where a preconceived idea can be result of an inside/out approach to a doctrine! A preconceived idea of the redemption spoken of here in Zacharias’ prophecy has led to some wrong deductions. False deductions lead to contradictions and confusion. Today, when a Christian thinks of redemption there is direct association with the cross and blood of Christ and rightly so. However, the cross was a stumbling block at this time in Israel’s history and redemption takes on an entirely different meaning within the context. What exactly did Zacharias have in mind when proclaiming the LORD God hath visited to redeem His people?

This view of redemption, as deliverance, is seen throughout the OT. It is used from both personal to national perspectives with a multitude of references. Here are a few:

Exodus 15:13 Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed: thou hast guided them in thy strength unto thy holy habitation.

hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed
guided them in thy strength unto thy holy habitation

2 Samuel 7:23 And what one nation in the earth is like thy people, even like Israel, whom God went to redeem for a people to himself, and to make him a name, and to do for you great things and terrible, for thy land, before thy people, which thou redeemedst to thee from Egypt, from the nations and their gods?

what one nation in the earth is like thy people, even like Israel
God went to redeem for a people to himself
which thou redeemedst to thee from Egypt
from the nations and their gods?

Nehemiah 5:5 Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards Nehemiah 5:8 And I said unto them, We after our ability have redeemed our brethren the Jews, which were sold unto the heathen; and will ye even sell your brethren? or shall they be sold unto us? Then held they their peace, and found nothing to answer.

neither is it in our power to redeem them
for other men have our lands and vineyards

Psalms 25:22 Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.

Psalms 69:18 Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies.

Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it
deliver me because of mine enemies

Psalms 106:10 And he saved them from the hand of him that hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy.

he saved them from the hand of him that hated them
and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy

Psalms 107:2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so
whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy

Psalms 130:7-8 Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. 8 And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

Let Israel hope in the LORD
with him is plenteous redemption
he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities

Isaiah 1:27 Zion shall be redeemed with judgment, and her converts with righteousness.

Zion shall be redeemed with judgment
her converts with righteousness

Isaiah 52:3 For thus saith the LORD, Ye have sold yourselves for nought; and ye shall be redeemed without money.

Ye have sold yourselves for nought
ye shall be redeemed without money

Isaiah 63:4 For the day of vengeance is in mine heart, and the year of my redeemed is come.

the day of vengeance is in mine heart
the year of my redeemed is come

Jeremiah 15:21 And I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible.

I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked
I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible

Micah 4:10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.

there shalt thou be delivered
there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies

Zechariah 10:8 I will hiss for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they have increased.

I will hiss for them, and gather them
for I have redeemed them

Hope and Dreams Shattered

Without the cross in mind, many were anticipating the soon redemption of Israel and there was great discouragement displayed, after the cross, when hope and dreams were shattered.

Luke 2:37-38 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

and spake of him to all them
that looked for redemption in Jerusalem

Luke 24:21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

we trusted that it had been he
which should have redeemed Israel
to day is the third day since these things were done

Also, without the cross in view, the Lord himself spoke of Israel’s redemption when giving warnings and signs preceding the establishment of the kingdom of God. It is to this association with Moses that the Lord is seen as a deliverer which will be accomplished in the end times.

Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

when these things begin to come to pass
your redemption draweth nigh
know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand

2. Baptized with water

There are two baptisms affiliated with Moses and the one being looked at here is a baptism with water. Contrary to popular belief, John the Baptist wasn’t the first to baptize with water. John was challenged by the Pharisees, because he didn’t profess to be Christ, Elias nor 'that prophet’, who was expected to be the baptizer following in Moses' sandals.

Exodus 19:10 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes, Exodus 19:14 And Moses went down from the mount unto the people, and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes.

Go unto the people
and sanctify them to day and to morrow

and let them wash their clothes
Moses went down from the mount unto the people
and sanctified the people
and they washed their clothes

John 1:25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

Why baptizest thou then
if thou be not that Christ
nor Elias
neither that prophet?

John 4:1-2 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John
Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples

In neither case did Moses or Jesus perform the actual baptizing, but each are accredited for it! The exact reason why Jesus didn’t personally baptize converts, with water, is discussed in chapter titled, "circumcision justified by faith".

First Baptizer A

3. Gave Commandments From God to Israel

A commonly known and accepted fact is that Moses was the LORD’s mediator in conveying the Ten Commandments to the nation of Israel. Something perhaps less thought of is all of the other commandments distributed to Israel through Moses in addition to the covenant made in Horeb. It has been calculated that a sum total of 613 laws are found in the Old Testament Pentateuch.

Deuteronomy 29:1 These are the words of the covenant, which the LORD commanded Moses to make with the children of Israel in the land of Moab, beside the covenant which he made with them in Horeb.

These are the words of the covenant
which the LORD commanded Moses to make with the children of Israel in the land of Moab
beside the covenant which he made with them in Horeb

A less known or perhaps more correctly stated… a less accepted fact, is the second law giver dictating laws governing a New Covenant, with the Nation of Israel, through that prophesied prophet like unto Moses.

Deuteronomy 18:18-19 I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.

I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee
and will put my words in his mouth
and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him
And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name
I will require it of him

The Mosaic Covenant is covered in quite detail, within this Theme Study, under the chapter titled, "righteousness of God with the law", so focus here is going to turn to the New Covenant commandments.

New Covenant Kingdom Doctrine

As Moses ascended a mountain top for instruction, so did the prophet like unto him.

In Matthew 5, Jesus sets Himself as a King and instructs His disciples who followed him. In chapter 8, Jesus descends followed by comment from the people who were astonished at His doctrine.

Matthew 5:1-2 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,

he went up into a mountain
and when he was set
his disciples came unto him
And he opened his mouth
and taught them, saying

Matthew 7:28-29 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: 29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 8:1 When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

when Jesus had ended these sayings
the people were astonished at his doctrine
For he taught them as one having authority

he was come down from the mountain

Probably no other section, in the bible, is referenced as much as is the Sermon on the Mount and yet misunderstood, because of not being presented within its context. The Sermon on the Mount was to the Israel then, being called out from under bondage of the Romans to be restored the Promised Land, as the law was to Israel when entering the Promise Land, having been called out from under the bondage of Egypt.

As in Hebrew’s 11, with the repetitious use of ‘by faith’, so here is found the repetitious use of ‘blessed are’, with reward in definite view of the kingdom of heaven on earth.

Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are... for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are... for they shall inherit the earth

Matthew 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are... for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

If there is any doubt to the importance of these commandments, to the Israelites, all doubt will be erased in reading of verse 19. I find it interesting that as much emphasis is placed on the beatitudes, from behind the pulpit these days, so very little emphasis is placed on this verse!

Matthew 5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments
and shall teach men so
he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven
but whosoever shall do and teach them
the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven

This comment of breaking 'one of these least commandments', is then immediately followed by Jesus’s appendix to the Law of Moses.

Matthew 5:21-22 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time
Thou shalt not kill
But I say unto you
That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment

Matthew 5:27-28 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time
Thou shalt not commit adultery
But I say unto you
That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart

Matthew 5:31-32 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: 32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

It hath been said
Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement
But I say unto you
That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication…

Matthew 5:33-34 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: 34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:

Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time
Thou shalt not forswear thyself
But I say unto you
Swear not at all

Matthew 5:38-39 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Ye have heard that it hath been said
An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth
But I say unto you
That ye resist not evil

Matthew 5:43-44 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Ye have heard that it hath been said
Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy
But I say unto you, Love your enemies
bless them that curse you…

With such emphasis, that is placed upon the red letter teachings of Christ, I’ve often wonder what excuse would be given by many for need of any further instruction from any of the epistles written since; in particular, from Paul? On the flip side of that, I understand the confusion today because of the emphasis placed on the red letters and not on Paul! There is need to discern between two audiences, one being ‘by faith’ and other ‘through faith’, which is 'of faith'.

Also, it is made clear within the teachings of Jesus, from the Sermon on the Mount, that the kingdom, within context, is to be established on this earth as prophesied in Zechariah.

Matthew 5:34-35 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.

Swear not at all
neither by heaven
for it is God's throne
Nor by the earth
for it is his footstool
neither by Jerusalem
for it is the city of the great King

Matthew 8:11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.

That many shall come from the east and west
and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob
in the kingdom of heaven

Zechariah 8:22-23 Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD. 23 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.

many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem
In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations
shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you

4. Displayed Signs and Wonders

In proving Himself, the LORD started Israel off with signs and wonders and this policy continued throughout Israel's history...

1 Corinthians 1:22 For the Jews require a sign...

Acts 7:35-36 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.

He brought them out
after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt

Acts 2:22-23 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

Ye men of Israel
Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you
by miracles and wonders and signs

Though both Moses and Jesus experienced rejection, from the very people they were sent to deliver, miracles, signs and wonders were and shall be one of the means in which God makes Himself known. Obviously and unfortunately, as what happened to Moses, this is also a means in which Satan has and will try to mirror in deception.

Even after the resurrection, confirmation of the Apostles’ ministry was via signs from the Lord.

Mark 16:20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

the Lord working with them
confirming the word with signs following

Before considering the role of the disciples pre and post cross involvement, in proclaiming the kingdom gospel and preaching according to prophecy, there is one other factor both Moses and Jesus had in common.

5. Heads of Households

Hebrews 3:1-6 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God. And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.

Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to him that appointed him
as also Moses was faithful in all his house
For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses
inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house
For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God
And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant
But Christ as a son over his own house
whose house are we
if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end

It is essential that the reader understands that Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians, saved during the Acts period, and this book must be considered from their perspective in which it was written. If the student, of the scriptures, tries to interject a Gentile Christian’s perspective, from today, into certain portions of this book, the end result will be confusion and contradiction.

God is building a household and one must understand where one fits into the eternal scheme of things within this household.

Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

That in the dispensation of the fulness of times
he might gather together in one all things in Christ
both which are in heaven
and which are on earth
even in him

Ephesians 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God

The question is… what is your hope and calling? In other words… where are you expecting to be in the next stage of God’s agenda for believers; in heaven or on this earth? Over the years I’ve discovered a mixed response to this question. There are those who believe that after Christ’s return, they will end up being here on earth. Others, somewhat to my surprise, who puts strong emphasis on Jesus’ teachings, believe they’ll spend eternity in heaven. As a child of God, where are you going to spend eternity? In heaven? On earth?

Jesus' & His Disciples

The Finished Work & Apostles' Doctrine

As the LORD chose Moses with entrusting Israel, with the teaching of the commandments down through the generations (Dt 6), so the Lord Jesus was entrusted to give instruction to certain disciples who would be responsible for bearing New Covenant commandments.

John 17:4-8 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. John 17:11-12 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. John 17:14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. John 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do
I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world
thine they were, and thou gavest them me
and they have kept thy word
For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me
and they have received them
keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me
While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name
those that thou gavest me I have kept
and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word

In establishing the New Covenant with Israel, New Covenant teachings were conveyed by the Father through the Son to be passed along to chosen ones carrying fourth the commission. This is the ‘work’ spoken of ‘…I have finished the work which thou gavest Me to do.’ (17:4).

The Sermon on the Mount is the doctrine of the Twelve Apostles (Acts 2:42), as well being the commandments emphasized over and over in John’s writings, including the book of Revelations (Jn 14:15, 21, 31; 15:10; 1Jn 2:3, 4; 3:22, 24; 5:2, 3; 2Jn 1:6; Rev 12:17; 14:12; 22:14). I trust the reader understands, that there is understanding, that certain principles run true from beginning to end throughout the scriptures. However, certain things make more sense, whether applicable or not for today, when read in light of the context.

The Disciples' Commission

During the earthly ministry of Jesus, the disciples were commissioned with carrying forth the kingdom gospel. Along with explicit instructions, in carrying out this commission, was a great motivating incentive with expectations of being experienced in their lifetime.

Matthew 10:5-7 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. Matthew 19:28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying
Go not into the way of the Gentiles
and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not
But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel
as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand
Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come
ye which have followed me
in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory
ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones
judging the twelve tribes of Israel

It must be further emphasized here that the disciple's mission was the lost sheep of the house of Israel, with distinction clearly made between Jew and Gentile. The Twelve will end up with responsibility of judging the twelve tribes of Israel, during the reign of the King in the kingdom of heaven, which is located here on earth. A particular note is that they were to expect this reign to begin before, having gone over all the cities of Israel. This had to be a great motivating factor!

Along with these instructions and expectations, the Lord began to lay out components of the kingdom of heaven via parables.

The Kingdom Gospel & Parables

The gospel, behind these parables, is the word of the kingdom or in other words… the kingdom gospel.

Matthew 3:1-2 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea
And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand

Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues
and preaching the gospel of the kingdom

Matthew 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues
and preaching the gospel of the kingdom

Matthew 13:18-19 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. 19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

Hear ye therefore the parable...
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom

Kingdom of Heaven Parables

Matthew 13:2-3 And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. 3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

he spake many things unto them in parables
Behold, a sower went forth to sow

Matthew 13:10-11 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? 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.

Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven
but to them it is not given

Matthew 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying
The kingdom of heaven
is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field

Matthew 13:31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying
The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed

Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Another parable spake he unto them
The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven

Matthew 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

the kingdom of heaven
is like unto treasure hid in a field

Matthew 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

the kingdom of heaven
is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls

Matthew 13:47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

the kingdom of heaven
is like unto a net

Matthew 13:52 Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.

every scribe which is instructed unto
the kingdom of heaven
is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old

Matthew 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven
whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven
whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven

Matthew 18:1-4 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven
Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child
the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 18:23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king
which would take account of his servants

Matthew 19:12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for
the kingdom of heaven's sake

Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me
for of such is the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 19:23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

That a rich man shall hardly enter into
the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 20:1 For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.

the kingdom of heaven
is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard

Matthew 22:2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,

The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king
which made a marriage for his son

Matthew 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up
the kingdom of heaven
against men
for ye neither go in yourselves
neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in

Matthew 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

the kingdom of heaven
be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom

Matthew 25:14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

the kingdom of heaven
is as a man travelling into a far country

Unless any or all of the passages, referencing the kingdom of heaven, aren’t taken and read in view of the covenants relating to the fathers and David regarding Israel, there will be nothing but confusion and contradiction, when trying to reconcile with Pauline doctrine! All of the passages have to be interpreted in light of a ‘by faith’ relationship to God regardless of application to Jew or Gentile, within context of the parables.

The kingdom gospel will no doubt come back into play, after the fullness of the Gentiles be come in, when God begins again dealing with the nation of Israel, that will continue throughout the Millennial reign of Christ.

Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world
for a witness unto all nations
and then shall the end come

My 2 Cents

This following statement is more of a personal observation than any dogmatic position. Because I identify the mid-Acts Gentiles being saved, with the early Jewish Christians that were yet expecting the return of Christ in their lifetime, I wouldn't argue much against those who would want to include them in the parables. However, because of the converted non-covenanted Gentiles, that Paul addresses in his prison epistles are said to be a 'mystery hid in God' and 'unsearchable', I balk at the idea of including them; which in turn includes us.

I do not profess to be preaching the gospel of the kingdom, as ascribed in the parables and Matthew 24:14, but the believer today is no doubt represented in the heavenly household of God... "Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:" Colossians 1:12-13

There are several 'ends', which come into play in the discussion of eschatology, that would determine the exact crowd of people who are around at that time of Christ's return?

Kingdom Gospel

Jesus finished work & apostles doctrine

Israel’s Stumbling Block on Way to the Kingdom

Stated under the sub-heading 'John the Baptist's Message', was that there were two things that stood in the way of the kingdom on earth being put back under Israel’s control. Israel was being called upon to repent, beginning with the baptism of John. Israel understood, in view of prophecy and Johns’ message, that there would be two other baptisms accompanying the baptism with water unto repentance. A baptism with the Holy Ghost and a baptism with fire.

Matthew 3:11-12 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: 12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance
he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost
and with fire

A special unction from above proving that God had arrived back on the scene and judgment that would purge certain occupants from the kingdom, appeared to be just on the horizon. However, something unforeseen… or better put… veiled, stood in between… the Cross.

1 Corinthians 1:22-23 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

For the Jews require a sign
But we preach Christ crucified
unto the Jews a stumblingblock

Israel’s Stumblingblock

The cross was truly a stumblingblock for all! To the nation of Israel as a whole, to the disciples as Jesus’ followers and in particular... to the princes of this world that had Jesus crucified (1 Co 2:7-8). The mystery behind the cross is dealt with under chapters titled, "preaching according to mystery" and "kept secret". Suffice to point out here is that Peter and John were clueless as to what was going down, even as they entered the empty tomb, after the crucifixion.

John 20:9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.

For as yet they knew not the scripture
that he must rise again from the dead

Apostles Enlightened and Re-Commissioned

After the Lord opened the disciple’s eyes, to what had just transpired according to prophecy, they were told to tarry in Jerusalem to later pick up where they left off in preaching repentance and remission of sins, in waiting for the outpouring of the Holy Ghost and pending judgment.

Luke 24:44-49 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. 45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: 47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And ye are witnesses of these things. 49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures
that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name
among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem
I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high

After forty days and with renewed anticipation of accompanying Christ in judging the Twelve Tribes of Israel, in the kingdom of heaven, the Apostles inquired if at this time the Lord would restore again the kingdom to Israel.

Acts 1:6-7 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

they asked of him, saying
Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
And he said unto them
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power

With affirmation of the commission before them, the Lord was received up out of their sight with promise of His return.

Acts 1:9-11 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?
this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven
shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven

Here it must be made perfectly clear that the components of the kingdom gospel didn’t change! With renewed understanding of the prophets, Peter began to declare Jesus, of the fruit of David’s loins, having been raised from the dead, to sit upon David’s throne. Resurrection is a theme of both Peter’s and Paul’s, but each with an entirely different perspective.

Acts 2:22-36 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: 26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. 34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool. 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Ye men of Israel, hear these words
Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God
ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain
being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him
that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh
he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne
The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand
Until I make thy foes thy footstool
Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly
that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified
both Lord and Christ

Peter was now preaching Christ and the cross according to prophecy and upon being convicted, the attentive crowd responded as to what they should do. With pending judgment, of a baptism with fire on the horizon for this generation, they were instructed to be baptized for the remission of sins, that was a continuation of the message that started with John the Baptist.

Acts 2:37-41 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart
and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles
Men and brethren, what shall we do?
Then Peter said unto them
Repent, and be baptized every one of you
in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
And with many other words did he testify and exhort
saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation

The salvation spoken of here from pending judgment, which was to fall upon this generation at the return of Christ, is the same salvation referenced in Mark 16:16.

Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved
but he that believeth not shall be damned

Israel already had two strikes against them in the beheading of John the Baptist and now the crucifixion of Christ. All that stood between them and the return of the kingdom back, into their hands, was repentance as a nation. This is, at least, what the Apostles understood! The Lord Jesus now waited, at the right hand of the Father in heaven, to return to His rightly claim to the throne of David.

Acts 3:19-20 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

Repent ye therefore, and be converted
that your sins may be blotted out
when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

Though there are denominations today that insist on baptism with water for salvation, there’s not a single preacher that would stand behind the pulpit promising his congregation or country, that if they repent and be baptized for the remission of sins, Jesus Christ would return. This is result of not understanding and discerning the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to prophecy, to a nation under a covenant relationship to the LORD!

Staying true to explicit instructions, the focus of the early Jewish Christian church remained on the Jew and the Apostles never strayed too far or for too long from the city of the anticipated great King.

Acts 8:1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.

at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem
and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria
except the apostles

Acts 11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

they which were scattered abroad
travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch
preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only

Acts 15:2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.

therefore Paul and Barnabas
should go up to Jerusalem
unto the apostles and elders about this question

The Great Commission

Life Experience: In the early 70’s, soon after my conversion, I challenged several Amish men as to why their religion wasn’t in step with the so-called ‘Great Commission’, as I understood it at that time. The response was quick and precise… it (the ‘Great Commission’) was given to the Apostles. Today, as denominational churches decline in number of attendees, the Amish community grows.

The greatest mistake made today, in the treatment of passages (Mt 10:1-23; 28:18-20; Mk 16:15-20; Lk 24:47-49) in dealing with the commissioned disciples and Apostles, is taking them out of the context of the rise of Israel in fulfillment of her kingdom reign, as once again, an exalted nation above all nations.

Remembering that the disciples were expecting the return of Messiah in their life time, the recorded commission in Luke had them ‘preaching’ to the Jew ‘among’ the nations as compared to Matthew’s record of a ‘teaching’ ministry 'to' the nations.

Luke’s commission began to be filled out (Acts 11:19), but Matthew’s not until the return of Christ and establishment of the kingdom here on earth.

Luke 24:47-49 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name
among all nations

Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

teach all nations
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you

The Millennium (1,000 year reign of Christ), isn’t the utopia many make it out to be. While Israel will have the knowledge of the LORD, in fulfillment of covenant promises (Heb 8:10-11), it is evident that all Gentiles don’t in light of the rebellion at the end of that age (Rev 20:1-10). This period of time will be much like the reign of King Solomon, but unlike no effort to convert the nations that surrounded. Such an effort will be made during this period of time… thus, fulfillment of the ‘Great Commission’.

Christ’s teachings, the beatitudes, are the mentioned instructions and unlike the baptismal formula of Acts 2:38, baptizing in the name of ‘Jesus Christ’, during the Millennium the formula is in the ‘name’ (singular, not plural) of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

Zechariah 14:9 And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

And the LORD shall be king over all the earth
in that day shall there be one LORD
and his name one

We will end this chapter with emphasis on Jesus, as David’s lineage, to the kingdom throne as seen in the Gospel of Matthew and with focus of the kingdom gospel as presented by John the Baptist and the Apostles.

Great Commission A

Apostles Re-Commissioned A

Matthew’s Gospel and David’s Lineage

The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as the prophesied fulfillment to David’s lineage of divinely appointed rule, by the LORD, as were certain prophesied events start coming to past. The primary theme of the Matthew’s gospel is the Kinship of the Lord Jesus Christ, regarding Israel’s anticipated Messiah. A very important underlining theme, that is also essential to understanding this gospel, is that of the Gentiles relationship to Israel’s Messiah, from Israel’s perspective. Let it be stated again… from Israel’s perspective; in particular, from the perspective the Twelve Apostles. If the reader loses track of either of these themes, the gospel of the kingdom will become confused with Paul’s gospel and ministry! This would be a prime example of an inside-out application. A thorough coverage of Gentiles, during the gospel era, is covered under chapter titled, "Gentiles".

Matthew opens Jesus’ genealogy with account of being the son of David, takes one leap back to Abraham and then follows through with mention of David again, ending with… "Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ."

Matthew 1:1-16 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2 Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; 3 And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; 4 And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; 5 And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; 6 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; 7 And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; 8 And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; 9 And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; 10 And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; 11 And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: 12 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; 13 And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; 14 And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; 15 And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; 16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

The book of the generation of Jesus Christ
the son of David
the son of Abraham
And Jesse begat David the king
and David the king begat Solomon
And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary
of whom was born Jesus
who is called Christ

The recognition of Jesus’ kingly lineage tie to David is seen throughout this gospel.

Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

Joseph, thou son of David

Matthew 2:2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Where is he that is born King of the Jews?

Matthew 9:27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us.

Thou Son of David, have mercy on us

Matthew 12:23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David?

Is not this the son of David?

Matthew 15:22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David

Matthew 20:30-32 And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. 31 And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. 32 And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?

Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David
Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David

Matthew 21:5 Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.

Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh

Matthew 21:9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David
Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord
Hosanna in the highest

Matthew 21:15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,

saying, Hosanna to the Son of David

Matthew 22:42 Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The Son of David.

They say unto him, The Son of David

Matthew 27:11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

saying, Art thou the King of the Jews?
And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest

Matthew 27:28-31 And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. 29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews! 30 And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head. 31 And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.

And they stripped him
and put on him a scarlet robe
And when they had platted a crown of thorns
they put it upon his head
and a reed in his right hand
and they bowed the knee before him
and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
and took the reed
and smote him on the head
they took the robe off from him
and put his own raiment on him

Matthew 27:35-37 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots. 36 And sitting down they watched him there; 37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

And set up over his head his accusation written
THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS

Jesus’ Departing Words to Jerusalem

Matthew 23:37-39 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem
Behold, your house is left unto you desolate
Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say
Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord

Jesus’ departing words to Jerusalem, the city of the great King, were ones of both condemnation and hope. His words were condemnation to that generation that not only rejected the arrival of the Son of God, as a whole, but would also pay for the sins of her predecessors.

Matthew 23:29-36 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous
And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets
Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets
Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city
That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar
Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation

Jesus’s parting words can also be considered hope in that His words gave assurance that one day He would return to fulfill covenanted promises, made to the fathers, regarding the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants.

Revelation 19:14-16 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword
that with it he should smite the nations
and he shall rule them with a rod of iron
And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written
KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS

Matthew 19:27-28 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

we have forsaken all, and followed thee
what shall we have therefore?
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you
That ye which have followed me
in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory
ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel

John the Baptist, along with Jesus and His Apostles' ministries, were all about proclaiming the kingdom of heaven at hand, in preaching the kingdom gospel, presenting Jesus Christ as the Son of God, according to prophecy... "Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;" Acts 2:30

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