“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.”
Matthew 11:12 KJV
As Matthew recorded it, “From the moment John stepped onto the scene until now, the realm of heaven’s kingdom is bursting forth, and passionate people have taken hold of its power.” John the Baptist knew the prophecies of the coming Messiah and he thought that it was particularly for the Jews. As Micah, who was a contemporary of Isaiah, had prophesied, “I will regather the tribes of Jacob. Yes, I will regather the remnant of Israel. I will bring you together like sheep in a fold, like a flock within their pasture, a noisy, excited multitude. The Barrier-Breaker will lead them out into freedom. They will all break out, passing through the enemy’s gates. Their King will advance before their eyes with Yahweh Himself leading the way!” But here as Jesus spoke with John the Baptist, He is referring to the Kingdom of God which included the non-Jews or gentiles. Those who have a living encounter with the resurrected Christ, through the finished work of the Cross, and know first-hand the forgiveness of sins, will, with passionate forcefulness, enter the Kingdom of God. May we know the power of the Cross as we enjoy the Presence of God in us and with us. Amen!
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