Entering the Kingdom 09/19/21

Porter Podcast

Series: Sermon on the Mount

Entering the Kingdom

Matthew 5:17-20; 48

The Kingdom of Heaven

The theme of the kingdom of heaven is mentioned eight times in the Sermon on the Mount. When Jesus speaks of the kingdom of heaven, He is referring to the reign of God. There is an already/not yet aspect to the kingdom of heaven.

One of the functions of the Sermon on the Mount is to describe those who will experience the kingdom.

Many erroneously believe that “good people” will experience the kingdom of heaven. To believe this, they must:

· deny their own failures.

· ignore the high expectations of God.

· believe Jesus will simply overlook their sin.

Matthew 5:17

How does Jesus “fulfill” the law?

1. He models perfect obedience.

2. He reveals the law’s true meaning.

3. His condemnation/death exposes the guilt of humanity.

4. His death fulfills the law’s demands.

Matthew 5:18

Jesus affirms the absolute authority of all of the scripture.

Matthew 5:19

Matthew 5:20; 48

The law demanded absolute perfection to enter heaven.

Romans 3:21-24

Today’s Takeaways

Man does not have the authority to lower the standards of God.

Complete purity is required to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Recognizing sinfulness is foundational to entering the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus, through His death, provides access to God and His kingdom for us.