BIBLE READING PLANNER

THE KINGDOM OF GOD

Matthew tells us about Jesus as the King of the coming Kingdom of God that was promised in the Old Testament. So we see a direct link with the promises made to Abraham.

The kingdom of God is also described as ‘the kingdom of heaven’ (because it belongs to God) but it will be on EARTH with Jerusalem as its capital. This also means that Jesus will return.

The ‘call of Christ’ is in many ways like God's call to Abram. It requires belief in the same promises that are confirmed in Jesus Christ and a life of willing discipleship.

PARABLES OF THE KINGDOM

Jesus often taught in parables. They were designed to help the humble of heart to understand the gospel of the Kingdom and to confound the proud and antagonistic. The parables can teach much to ‘those who have ears to hear’ and they are wonderful aids to the memory.

Some parables, like the Sower (Matthew 13) tell of the preparation stage of the Kingdom. Others, like that of the Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25) tell us of the future.

DAILY NOTES

SUNDAY - Matthew 8 - The many miracles performed by Jesus were a witness to the truth of his teaching and his ability to help those in need. Note the many expressions of faith for example the Roman Centurion verses 8-10 and how Jesus rebukes the disciples for their lack of faith verse 26.

MONDAY - Matthew 9 - Verses 1-8. Forgiveness of sins is possible through Jesus. Note how healing is associated with sin being forgiven (verses 4-6). Matthew was called to follow Jesus (verse 9). Note the immediate response by Matthew . We also need to learn about Jesus and hear his words as recorded in scripture if we are to follow him acceptably.

TUESDAY - Matthew 10 - Verses 2-4. The Twelve left everything to follow Jesus. We need their faith which puts God first in our lives (verses 38-39).

WEDNESDAY - Matthew 11 - Verses 2-3. Jesus' reply to John's enquiry was to quote from Isaiah 35 (which is about the future kingdom). We all have problems in life that are often difficult to cope with, but by trusting in Jesus we can find a very real peace (verses 28-30).

THURSDAY - Matthew 12 - Verses 15-21. Jesus' attitude fulfilled Isaiah 42, verses 1-4. God's servant was to invite, not to force people. We have free will to listen to that invitation and respond or to reject the Gospel message. But each choice brings its own consequences - reward or condemnation.

FRIDAY - Matthew 13 - This chapter contains seven parables about the Kingdom. Notice the important stages in verse 23: (a) Receiving . . . (b) Hearing . . . (c) Understanding God's Word.