Day 8 · Week 2
Passage: Matthew 4:17, 23
Memory Verse: Matthew 6:33
Matthew 4:17 (KJV)
“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Before Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, He announced something important: “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
When we hear the word kingdom, we may picture a country, a castle, or a king sitting on a throne. But Jesus was announcing more than a place. God's King had come, and He was calling people to live under God's rule.
That helps us understand the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus is going to describe what life looks like when God is truly King of our hearts.
His kingdom does not begin with armies taking territory. It begins with people turning from sin and trusting God. That is why Jesus' announcement begins with the word “Repent.” To repent means that we recognize we have been going the wrong way and turn toward God.
Throughout this year Jesus will challenge the way we naturally think about success, enemies, possessions, prayer, forgiveness, and even happiness. He is teaching us the ways of His kingdom.
The first question, then, is not simply, “What does Jesus want me to do?” It is, “Will I let Jesus be King?”
What is the difference between knowing that Jesus is King and allowing Him to rule our choices?
Is there an area of my life where I find it difficult to let Jesus have the final word?
Ask Jesus to rule in your heart and home and to teach your family what it means to live in His kingdom.