I’ve been reflecting on the values of the Kingdom of Heaven. On a number of occasions Jesus spoke directly about why he came and what he came to do. He said he came to do the will of the Father (John 6:38), to bring light into the darkness (John 12:46), to seek and to save what was lost (Luke 19:10), and to give his life a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). He came preaching repentance, offering the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:15,38; John 18:37), and life to the full (John 10:10).

Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom of God. It was a message of forgiveness of sins and eternal life. It was also a message of compassion, justice, reconciliation and freedom in the present life. It was salvation for the sinner and good news to the poor and the oppressed (Luke 4:18-22). The gospel of the kingdom has implications for the present and the future.

I do not believe that we will bring the kingdom of God in its fullness by our ministries. Jesus will do that when He comes again. I do believe, however, that our ministries should reflect the priorities and values of the kingdom. We proclaim the forgiveness of sins through faith in Christ and call people to love and repentance in all areas of life.