“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”

Saturday, 11-19, 2011 – Matthew 1-4

S=Scripture; O=Observation; A=Application; P=Prayer

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”

S – Matthew 4:17 ”From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

O – Jesus is beginning His ministry at Capernaum located on the western shore of Galilee along the border of the two ancient tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.”

A – When I read about Jesus entering into the beginning of His ministry, I get excited! It’s like watching an action movie unfold. The powers of darkness are about to be invaded by the Light of the gospel of Jesus Christ. People are going to be set free from darkness and come into the glorious light. The sin that bound them like chains are going to be removed and they are going to walk in freedom. Yeah God! It’s the, “Never Ending Story” but, instead of the nothing (darkness) which attempts to destroy everything, it’s Jesus (our hero) the Light of the world who comes to save those who are lost and dying. He is the, “Greatest story ever told” and for those of us who have seen, and tasted, and are filled with this Great Light need to tell others the story, “Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand.”

P- Lord, You are the Light and you have overcome the powers of darkness. You are our hero and there is no one else like you. As I tell others of Your great love for the them, help them to believe and receive the message of repentance and forgiveness so that they will be set free from the powers of darkness and come into Your glorious light and be part of the never ending story of your great love. Amen!