Matthew 4:12-25

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN COMES NEAR

Keywords 4:16

the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned."

 

1. The appearing of a great light (12-17)

Jesus did not begin his ministry in Jerusalem, but in the remote region of Galilee. Jesus served people who seemed far from God. He taught them that the kingdom of God was very near to them. All they had to do was repent and believe the good news. Jesus’ ministry fulfilled the prophecy of a great light to light up people’s lives. Jesus himself is that light. The kingdom of heaven came to us in Jesus.

 

2. Jesus calls disciples and begins to serve (18-25)

Jesus also began to call disciples, whom he could train to be spiritual leaders and serve as he did. Jesus’ calling gave ordinary fishermen a whole new life as fishers for people. Jesus also displayed God’s love and light by healing all kinds of human suffering. Soon large crowds of people began to follow Jesus wherever he went. They saw in Jesus the true hope they had been seeking.

 

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank you for opening the kingdom of heaven to us when we were lost in darkness. I will follow you with great hope.

One Word A great light