“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them. Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.” — Matthew 4:23–25 (NIV84)
We have already noted the fact that both John the Baptist and Jesus began their ministries with the identical message: “Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” It is clear that both proclaimed a message from and about a kingdom other than the one in which we live. Each called us to repent of a life devoted to the earthly kingdom and begin to live one devoted to God’s heavenly kingdom. So what does that kingdom look like? Is there any chance one can get a glimpse of that kingdom, even while living in this earthly one? For your answer, read the verses above one more time. Just listen to Jesus’ message.
Jesus began to travel throughout Galilee preaching the good news of the kingdom. You see, the message was not about hell and damnation, but rather hope and salvation. The outcome of repenting from our sinful lives and turning to Christ is the redemption of our hearts and souls. Jesus was given His name because it means “savior.” The angel told Joseph, “You will call His name Jesus because He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Friends, the message of the kingdom of God and heaven is a good message, and it was evident to those who heard it and believed it. But that is not all.
Yes, you might think that the salvation of our souls should be enough. But, Jesus didn’t stop there. He continued the good news about the kingdom by healing the sick and the suffering. He not only brought physical healing but spiritual healing as well. He touched and He healed so many that the word got out about His message and ministry. People began to bring their demon-possessed and severely sick to Him, and He healed them. Goodness! Could there be any better news? But that is not all.
The message and the healing that came through the ministry of Jesus were not just for the people of His time. We, as Christians, are commissioned with the same good news. The same Holy Spirit that worked through Jesus’ ministry to touch so many also works through our ministry of the Gospel (good news) today. Our world needs to hear this 2,000-year-old message about God sending His Son into the world to redeem, save and transform His creation. The same spiritual and physical needs that existed then exist today.
Let’s recommit ourselves to believing and proclaiming this good news to everyone God places in our lives.
Peace!
Pastor Tom
www.firmlyrooted.church