The Kingdom is At Hand

Matthew 10:7 ESV

“And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Matthew 10:7 is an instruction from Jesus to his disciples to preach that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” as they travel. This message was a continuation of both John the Baptist’s and Jesus’ own ministry, and it marked the inauguration of God’s rule on Earth through Jesus’ presence. This phrase suggests that the message should be proclaimed as the disciples move from place to place, integrating the mission into their daily lives. This is a ministry of constant proclamation, not just a one-time event. That should speak volumes to us. The kingdom refers to God’s sovereign rule and the new reality being established through Jesus. It’s a present reality and our future in glory. We are to be carriers and deliverers of the Gospel to all who will listen. It challenges believers to live as citizens of this kingdom, demonstrating its principles and proclaiming the message to others. Why is this important? We live by a higher standard as we live in this world, but we do not live according to the world’s standards. We have a higher calling.

Prayer:

Lord, use us to carry the gospel to the world in whatever way we can. Let the message of the Gospel be in our hearts, and flow through us to all who will hear. In Your name Lord Jesus, Amen!