Paul Preaches to Jews & Gentiles in Rome (Pt 1)

This class focuses on the theme of the kingdom of God as found in Luke/Acts. We show that the kingdom of God is mentioned in Luke 1 with the message to Mary from Gabriel the angel, and is found early in Acts in Peter’s preaching on Pentecost, and finally in the end of Acts with Paul’s contending about the kingdom of God.

Since this is so important, we discuss key issues about what is revealed about the Kingdom of God in Luke/Acts. The kingdom of God is grounded in the identity of Christ as the Davidic king promised in Psalm 110:1. Peter’s Pentecost sermon contended that David could not be the promised one who would rule because his grave was still with them.

Jesus was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven where He rules at the right hand of God. We also examine passages about the judgment of hardening which is mentioned in Isaiah 6 as cited in Acts 28:25-27. We cite passages in Luke about hardening of those who reject the clear evidence that Jesus is the Messiah. The kingdom of God is not a territory on earth.

Wherever the King resides there is the kingdom. The kingdom of God will not be on earth until the King returns to rule on earth. Now it is in heaven at the right hand of God. All believers have access to our Lord who hears our prayers.