Scripture

“From the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent people are attacking it.”

Observation

Jesus continues to teach the crowds.

He says that of all the people who ever lived, John the Baptist is the greatest. But even the least person in God’s kingdom is greater than John.

From the time John began preaching, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing. Violent people are attacking it. This is the time all the prophets looked forward to.

The present generation are like children playing in the village square. They complain because John was too austere and now they complain because Jesus goes to feasts and befriends tax collectors and other so-called sinners.

Application

We often think of God’s work advancing quietly, perhaps going backwards rather than advancing. Yet, all over the world the kingdom of God is growing rapidly.

In many places, violent people attack it and persecute the followers of Christ. In Muslim countries, new converts may be beaten, thrown out of their homes, or killed. In North Korea, mere possession of a Bible may lead a person to be executed. In Central America, Christians refuse to be intimidated by gangsters and are killed for their resistance.

God’s kingdom is advancing, like a flood that cannot be resisted. People may try to attack God’s people, but they will never stop the way of God from prevailing.

Prayer

Thank you Lord that with you, I am on the right side of history. Please help me to stand firm in you when I am faced with opposition for your name’s sake. Amen.