God's Wisdom In A Nutshell

Hello,

Today I’d like to talk to you about some very misunderstood verses of Scripture.

In the book of Matthew, Jesus was teaching His apostles about the Kingdom of heaven. What we need to know about the Kingdom of Heaven is that it was started on earth with Jesus and continues through the work of the Holy Spirit.

“In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”(Matt 3:2-3)

The word “at hand” means ready for use, available. Therefore, believers who have chosen to give their lives to Christ, to follow His ways and go to Him for guidance in every decision- are in the Kingdom on earth. It starts with a belief in Jesus’ death and resurrection and ascension into heaven and then is walked out daily as we turn from our old ways of behaving in the world to behaving as a dignified child of God.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.”(Matt 7:21 NKJV)

This verse is telling us that in order to enter into God’s kingdom on earth- a place of peace, provision, protection, supernatural help, miracles and joy – we must be born of the Spirit and choose follow God’s teachings.  This verse is not telling us that we won’t make it to heaven because Jesus clarified that in this verse:

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God”(Ephesians 2:8 NIV)

Jesus tells us that not many people find His Kingdom on earth -and it is especially hard to find it if you are rich Why? Because many rely on money to acquire what we need instead of relying on God who can give us everything money can’t buy. But those who are “poor in Spirit” in other words, those who know that they need God, know that true life is only found in connection to the Lord Jesus Christ through His Word and by honoring His teachings.

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it”(Matt 7:13-14)

“Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”(Matt 18:3 NKJV)

   Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:1

A person with childlike faith believes every Word Jesus says even if it is counterintuitive to the worldly way of thinking. This was by God’s design. He wants only those who follow Him despite their fear, to reap the immeasurable benefits He has for His children both here on earth and in heaven.

Food For Thought,

Lisa