Insightful Musings on theScriptures
by
Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67
Good chilly morning, dear people.
Becki and I did our little walk/jog routine in the frosty air. But it’s sure gorgeous with the clear sky and near full moon in view over the hill to the West.
Lots in store for this day too. But my memory is so ailing, I don’t really remember much of what all that involves at present. After sending this I’ll look again at my list and select some priorities and get with it. Maybe my poor memory is a kind of blessing. If I was constantly aware of that big list I might melt.
Have a great day in the morning…midday…afternoon…etc.
Love, Dad/Ray
13 January
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 have Jesus sending His disciples out on a special outreach campaign where He prescribes the main message they are to preach: “The kingdom of heaven is near” (10:7). Hmm. 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 something 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?
"The cross is the only ladder tall enough to reach heaven."