The Kingdom of Heaven, (Paperback)

The kingdom of heaven--what is it exactly? Only one book in the Bible uses this terminology: the gospel of Matthew, and it presents it thirty-three times in just twenty-eight chapters. Though the kingdom of God appears as well in the work, it appears separate from the kingdom of heaven, and in full alignment with the seven kingdom types of Scripture.

In substance, this kingdom relates to the literal reign of Christ on earth. But Matthew uses it more to refer to the time just before it is set up on earth. He uses it more to speak of conditions that are to exist at the end of the tribulation prior to the kingdom age. This makes his presentation unique and unlike any other.

In its prime position, which is first and foremost in the order of the gospels and first and foremost in the order of the New Testament, this gospel lays the groundwork for all that comes after it and is said by others.

Written from a disciple's perspective, it reveals the inner workings of Jesus's ministry on earth, going beyond the teachings and miracles to give the purpose behind these things and explain what was going on behind the scenes, showing that, more than Christ, Jesus was the Savior of the world and a "King." The title "King of kings and Lord of lords," from the last book of the Bible, resonates with the account.

The gospel follows a theme from beginning to end. Every part contributes to the whole. The textual arrangement of prophetic precision brings everything together. And though written to Jews of the first century, shortly after the time of Jesus's ascension, grasped today, these timeless truths compel one to live the Christian life on a higher plane.