Compelled by Love

Living in the reality of Heaven in our midst

Introduction

In our last article, we explored how Heaven is not merely a future destination but a present reality, accessible and manifest in the lives of those who embody the principles of the Kingdom of Heaven. This essay will explore the implications of this understanding, focusing on the Sermon on the Mount, the portrayal of Jesus as a better Moses, and the practical application of Kingdom principles in daily life.

The Kingdom of Heaven in Our Midst

Jesus begins His ministry with a proclamation: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near" (Matthew 4:17) . This declaration sets the stage for His teachings on the Kingdom of Heaven, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount. But what does it mean for the Kingdom of Heaven to be "in our midst"?

The phrase implies that the Kingdom is not a far-off reality but something accessible and present among us. It challenges believers to recognize and participate in the Kingdom here and now, through their actions, attitudes, and relationships. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) provides a detailed description of what this looks like in practice.

For a further exploration into this concept, check out our last article or watch our summary video:

Jesus as a Better Moses

The Gospel of Matthew purposefully portrays Jesus as a figure superior to Moses. This comparison is drawn to highlight Jesus' role in bringing a new law to God's people that surpasses the old covenant delivered by Moses. Benjamin Wisner Bacon argues that Matthew presents Jesus as the better Moses, particularly evident in the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus delivers His teachings from a mountainside, reminiscent of Moses receiving the law on Mount Sinai.