Insightful Musings on the Scriptures
by
Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67
Passage: Matthew 10:1-23
Focus: “As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’” Matthew 10:7.
I’m impressed with the continuity of the basic gospel message that runs through the Matthew account. John the Baptist began his inspired preaching with, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (3:2). Then, following Jesus baptism and temptation, He began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (4:17). Now we hear Jesus prescribing the main message His disciples are to preach: “The kingdom of heaven is near” (10:7). Do you think there might be something important here?
As I process this appeal against an overview of biblical revelation, there seems to be a similarity to some contemporary marketing strategies. Perhaps we could word the gospel deal like this: “God is now inviting everyone to take advantage of free passage to heaven (eternal life) through the exclusive provision of Christ. But hurry! This is a limited time offer. There is a deadline (Pun intended…for once the line of death is crossed, one’s eternal destiny is settled…forever settled…and if this offer is not taken prior to that line, the kingdom of heaven will no longer be near, but very very far). You won’t want to pass up this offer. You can’t LIVE without it.”
“The kingdom of heaven is near.” How near? It is as near as my willingness to turn to God, repent of my sin, and choose to live for Him. I have absolutely nothing (of value) to lose and everything to gain.
I admit that I struggle deeply over why in the world this amazing offer is so typically rejected. Do you?