Category: Kingdom of Heaven

The Wedding of the Lamb

Touching down on the runway, my mind buzzed with excitement anticipating the weekend of wedding festivities that lay ahead. As we jolted to a stop, I glanced at a text message I’d received mid-flight and my stomach lurched: a close friend’s father had passed away earlier that morning. Stunned, I froze for a moment before burying my face in my hands as tears began flowing. Though I ached for my friend’s loss, I also rejoiced that her father was no longer suffering from a debilitating disease. The news triggered a wave of personal grief as memories surfaced from losing my own dad over a decade earlier.

After a phone call with my friend, I pushed the pause button on my emotions and changed gears. We’d flown halfway across the country to gather with extended family for a happy reason—the wedding of our nephew. Over two action packed days, we spent time connecting with family members and old friends to celebrate the marriage of a man and woman who loved Jesus and one another deeply.

Standing under massive shade trees bordering a meadow dotted with wildflowers, we watched as our beaming nephew awaited his radiant bride. Although the surroundings were picturesque, what caught my attention most was the deep joy that permeated the wedding. It was clear that these two had been covered in prayer throughout their lives. Both sets of parents had prayed fervently for the Lord to lead their children to godly spouses who would complement them perfectly. Their marriage was starting on a firm foundation and the wedding celebration was evidence of God’s faithful provision.

Scanning the crowd during the reception, I marveled at the many intersections between guests. With so many godly and faithful people there, the overlaps in ministry and friendship were plentiful. I loved reconnecting with a mentor I hadn’t seen since college and was thrilled to meet people tied to friends and ministries I’d served with in the past. The array of faith-filled guests felt like a foretaste of the great wedding feast prophesied by John in the Bible:

 “Then a voice came from the throne, saying: ‘Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both great and small!’ Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean was given her to wear.’ (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)

Then the angel said to me, ‘Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’ And he added, ‘These are the true words of God.’” (Revelation 19:5-9, NIV)

If you’re unfamiliar with this passage, it’s describing the celebration that will occur after the final judgement: “God’s people are arrayed in fine linen, clean and white because Christ’s shed blood has washed away their sins. They are presented righteous and pure to their bridegroom, Christ. At the marriage supper, individual believers are guests, but collectively they are the bride.”1 This links to Scriptures that use a groom and his bride as a picture of God and His people in the Old Testament and Christ and the Church in the New Testament (most notably in Ephesians 5:22-32).

This brings me to an unlikely comparison– I felt the same deep joy a few weeks later at the memorial service for my friend’s dad. Once again, people gathered to celebrate, only this time it was for the life of a man who met Jesus as a young dad and followed Him humbly for the next four and a half decades. Throughout the service, we heard stories about his love for the Lord and how it informed every aspect of life in his home, his leisure time, and his career. Overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness, I joined the congregation singing “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace” as tears rolled down my cheeks.

Sitting at the service surrounded by old friends once again made me think about the great wedding feast of the Lamb. Weddings and funerals prompt us to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s goodness. It’s profound to celebrate with followers of Jesus who have been intent on seeing His kingdom advance on earth. A significant bond connects those who walk the narrow path that leads to life described in Matthew 7:13-14.

Weddings and funerals offer a foretaste of what’s ahead for all who call Jesus Lord and Savior. One day believers from every tongue, tribe, and nation will gather at the Feast of the Lamb to worship Jesus together. I can only imagine the many joy-filled reunions between old friends and family members that will take place.  After years of following Him, we’ll see Jesus face to face and revel in His glory and grace together.

These scenes also prompt me to pause. What about those who can’t comprehend the spiritual significance of weddings and funerals because they don’t know Jesus?  They won’t recognize the Lord’s amazing handiwork because they have no context for it. My heart aches for them to know and experience the depths of God’s love. May the Holy Spirit prompt all who follow Jesus to sow seeds of faith liberally so others can receive the hope of salvation through our Bridegroom, Christ.

Post inspired by Jennifer Rothschild’s Heaven.  Order your copy using this link.

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  1. Halley’s Bible Handbook, Zondervan, 2000, p. 958

Your Father’s House: Heaven

Studying a rail map of Europe, my friends hunched on the lower bunk next to me as rain pelted the windows of the youth hostel. On a break from classes, our plans to explore the picturesque alps of Switzerland, Austria, and Germany had been derailed by a chilly, wet stormfront. After sloshing through Lucerne with soggy feet and seeing only thick clouds instead of snowcapped peaks, we revamped our itinerary seeking sunnier destinations further south.

With a vague knowledge of Italy, we chose two cities that fit our timeframe and Eurail pass parameters. The next afternoon, we stepped off the train into glorious sunshine in Venice. After exploring the canals, bridges, and piazzas for a few days, we moved on to Florence and more warm weather. A thick guidebook supplemented our youthful ignorance, leading us to the highlights of each city, but sunshine, gelato, and pizza had been the main draws for us. With minimal knowledge we couldn’t fully appreciate the history, art, and culture of those rich and multi-faceted cities.

Most of us have impressions of places we’ve never been that come from reputations or stereotypes. We might attach them to certain foods, weather, events, or people. But as we learn more about the place or travel there firsthand, our preconceived notions shift, and our one-dimensional knowledge begins to expand and deepen. Not long ago I had the chance to return to Florence and revisit a few of the highlights I’d seen as a college student. With more time to research and prepare, my understanding of the city and appreciation for its beauty and history only grew. I still enjoyed the sunshine and gelato, but also so much more beyond that.

For many of us, our knowledge about Heaven is like this; it’s filled with assumptions that have been influenced by our upbringing, our faith background, books, music, and movies. We typically view it as “a better place” where people go when they die. Without much concrete knowledge, we may envision Heaven as a buffet of all of our favorite things served up according to our whims and desires: a perpetual vacation on a tropical beach, unending happiness surrounded by favorite people and pets, or a never ending series of adventures and activities in beautiful locations. Most of us focus on what the surroundings will be like, who will be there, and what we’ll do.

In John’s gospel, Jesus describes Heaven as His Father’s house. He says to His disciples, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3, NIV)

Spending eternity with the Lord isn’t always at the forefront of our minds, though is it? He’s mainly the gatekeeper who lets people in or bars entry to Heaven. A popular view is that all “good” people go there, though the measurement for “good” is vague. Sometimes we’re even suspicious of God for being the one to make this judgement. Considering what happens after we die feels uncomfortable and frightening, so many of us choose not to delve into those thoughts, find answers to our questions, or clarify our assumptions.

If any of this resonates and you’d like  a more biblical understanding of Heaven, I hope you’ll join me as I work my way through Jennifer Rothschilds’ Bible study: Heaven: When Faith Becomes Sight. I’ve read a variety of materials about Heaven over the years but have never found an interactive resource like this that pulls so much information together. With Scripture as her source material, Rothschild helps participants to understand what’s true about Heaven and how we can prepare for it now. She opens the study with a few key concepts that are helpful to understand. For example, Rothschild explains that when used in Scripture, the word Heaven has one of three meanings:

  1. The sky where birds fly; the air within the earth’s atmosphere.
  2. The expanse of the universe where the sun, moon and stars reside.
  3. The dwelling place of God.

Rothschild says, “don’t assume every time you read the word Heaven in the Bible, it is referring to our eternal home with God.”1

Rothschild also explains, “even though we think of Heaven as ultimately one place, we need to see how the Scripture talks about it in three different time periods.”2 She distinguishes between them as follows:

  • Period 1: How the Bible speaks of Heaven from the time of creation in Genesis to the crucifixion of Christ in the gospels.
  • Period 2: How the Bible speaks about Heaven from the resurrection of Christ in the gospels until His return (mostly described in Revelation but also mentioned in other parts of the New Testament.)
  • Period 3: How Scripture describes Heaven from the return of Christ going forward into eternity.

According to this chronology, we are currently in the middle period after Christ’s resurrection but before His return.

As my understanding of Heaven has expanded, I’ve begun to equate it with nearness to God. It is where the Lord’s kingdom functions as He originally intended without the hindrance of sin. When Jesus taught His followers to pray, “your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is with heaven,” He gave words to our yearning for wholeness and peace and our longing for a world without sin, brokenness, and evil. (Matthew 6:10, NIV).

We’re going to learn that Heaven is much more than an unending vacation in paradise. At the end of time it is where God dwells with His people and “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4b, NIV)

Join me as we consider our preconceived notions about Heaven and explore God’s Word together.  Let’s stop avoiding what we don’t understand, release our vague hopes, and find out what awaits us when faith becomes sight.

Order your copy of Jennifer Rothschild’s Heaven using this link.

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  1. Jennifer Rothschild, Heaven: When Faith Becomes Sight, Lifeway Press, 2025, 23.
  2. ibid, 24

Discourse of the King: Matthew 23-25

Exploring the narrow side streets of a European city always gives me a thrill. Recently I had the opportunity to travel to Italy for a family wedding. My husband, sons and I made a brief stopover in Florence, a city I last visited over 30 years ago. I enjoyed showing my family a few highlights like Michelangelo’s exquisite sculpture of David, Botticelli’s iconic painting The Birth of Venus, and the ornate white marble Duomo di Firenze. I also loved  expanding my knowledge of the city by biking thorough it with a local tour guide. True to form, I already have a list of additional places to explore if I’m ever fortunate enough to return to Tuscany.

Studying the Bible can be a bit like my recent travel experience. As we re-visit familiar passages and study them further our knowledge increases, our understanding grows, and our curiosity widens. Maybe you’re familiar with the highlights of Matthew chapters 23-25 but haven’t had the chance to delve much deeper. So today, let’s take a tour of these three dense chapters to increase or understanding of them. This post is longer than usual but bold headings will help you focus on the parts that are most helpful to you. I’ve borrowed quite a bit from a teaching by Jen Wilkin listed at the bottom.1

Chapter 23 Woes

Woes are messages of lament and warning of impending judgement and calamity. In this chapter, Jesus pronounces judgement on the Pharisees who have been the target of His rebukes throughout Matthew’s Gospel. Now in Jerusalem and nearing the end of His ministry, Jesus doesn’t hold back from speaking harsh truth about hard hearts. Wilkin points out that each of the seven woes corresponds to the blessings in the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. More modern translations like the NIV do not include Matthew 23:14 which, when included, makes the eight woes correspond to the eight beatitudes. (The missing verse is “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.” 23:14, KJV)

Blessings (5:3-10) Woes (23:13-33)
Poor in spirit, theirs is the kingdom of heaven You shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces (thus making it inaccessible)
Those who mourn, they will be comforted You devour widows/ mourners
The meek who will inherit the earth You travel the earth to make converts who are sons of hell
Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness You make hollow, false oaths with no regard for righteousness
The merciful Neglect justice, mercy & faithfulness
The pure in heart Hypocrites- clean on the outside but impure on the inside; full of greed & self-indulgence
The peacemakers Hypocrites- appear righteous but filled with wickedness (robbing people of peace)
Those persecuted because of righteousness Took part in persecuting and shedding blood of righteous prophets

Jesus concludes the woes with an expression of grief: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” (23:37-39, NIV) The city that should celebrate Him as the Messiah and King will reject and crucify Him in a matter of days.

Chapter 24 Signs of the End of the Age

 Jesus delivers this fifth and final chunk of teaching in Matthew’s Gospel known as the “Olivet Discourse” while sitting with His disciples on the Mount of Olives. Three prevailing schools of thought affect the way the signs of the end of the age are interpreted:

  1. Those who see events described in this chapter as historical and fulfilled when Rome conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the temple in 70 AD.
  2. Those who believe the events described are a future reality. (This view came into prominence in the 20th century and was popularized by books, movies, and songs about the rapture.)
  3. Those who believe the descriptions in this passage are multi-layered and that some have taken place whiles others have yet to occur.

Common Ground Between All Three Viewpoints:

  • Jesus will appear in a way that all nations will see Him
  • Jesus will come with power and great glory
  • Angels will sound a loud trumpet to gather God’s people
  • The elect will be gathered from all parts of the world

For a more detailed explanation of these three views, see the appendix at the end of this post. Below are a few new insights I learned about these chapters.

Destruction of the Temple

Chapter 24 opens, “Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. “’Do you see all these things?’ he asked. ‘Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.’ As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. ‘Tell us,’ they said, ‘when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?’” (24:1-3, NIV)

Many of the events Jesus describes here came to pass in 70 AD when the Roman General Titus conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the temple. Jerusalem was subjected to a brutal five- month siege that culminated when the Romans committed the ultimate sacrilegious act by carrying their religious and military symbol of an eagle into the Holy of Holies. This may be what Jesus foreshadows in verses 15-28 when He says, “So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand— then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” (24:15-16, NIV) The abomination that causes desolation would have been like Israel’s 9/11 or Pearl Harbor. It was an event that marked them that they would never forget.

The historian Josephus says over 350,000 Jews lost their lives during this period while other historians say up to 1 million may have perished. Multitudes suffered and fled the city to save their lives. Jesus said the events He was describing would happen within “this generation” (verse 34). A generation in the Bible is about 40 years; this teaching occurred in 33 AD, and Rome destroyed the temple in 70 AD. So, the temple’s destruction  happened within that generation.

Carcass, Vultures, Sun, Moon, Stars

Jesus describes a chilling scene: “Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. Immediately after the distress of those days ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’” (24:28-9, NIV)

Jen Wilkin explains that carcass/ vulture imagery is symbolic. The word “eagles” can also be translated as “vultures.” So, eagles/ vultures could represent the Roman legions circling around Israel, symbolized as a carcass. The sun, moon, and stars also have a metaphorical element. Since they were worshipped by different cultures who influenced the Israelites at various times, this could be a comment about the ultimate end of idolatry when Christ returns.

The Son of Man Coming on the Clouds

Scholars agree that Jesus’ description of His return is a future reality: “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (24:30-31, NIV)

This calls to mind the same prophecy recorded by John in Revelation: “’Look, he is coming with the clouds,’ and ‘every eye will see him, even those who pierced him’; and all peoples on earth ‘will mourn because of him.’ So shall it be! Amen.” (Revelation 1:7, NIV)

The Day and the Hour Unknown

Jesus speaks of His return by comparing it to the days of Noah: “For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.” (24:38-41, NIV)

The return of Son of Man hasn’t happened yet—this is pointing to end of age and consummation of all things.  Several sources assert that this passage has been  wrongly associated with the idea of the rapture. Instead “Jesus’ reference of Noah’s flood suggests that those who are taken away are taken in judgment. The taken will be destroyed, just as the ungodly of Noah’s day were swept away by the flood…They will be continuing with life as normal when judgment suddenly befalls them. Jesus’ second coming and the accompanying judgment will be sudden and surprising for the unprepared.”2 (If, like me, you read the Left Behind series, this is a huge paradigm shift for you. Some scholars like N.T. Wright even assert that the notion of the rapture is a misinterpretation of 1 Thessalonians 4:17)3

If you studied Revelation with me last year, you may remember that events described there were often symbolic and layered—they could mean several things at the same time and still be true. Just as history repeats itself, prophecies have truth that pushes beyond the boundaries of specific times and places. Some of what Jesus describes in this chapter took place within that generation; other events happened then and will happen again, and some are yet to take place.

Regardless of the era of history, the common theme is for believers to remain faithful and obedient to the Lord and to live anticipating Christ’s return. “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (24:14, NIV)

Chapter 25

In this chapter, Jesus tells three parables to illustrate the mindset and actions believers need to have as we await His return.

The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids/ Virgins emphasizes that every person is responsible for his or her own spiritual condition. “Spiritual preparation cannot be bought or borrowed at the last minute. Our relationship with God must be our own.”4  The parable highlights the contrast of people who are unprepared (subject to woe) and others prepared and waiting expectantly (receiving blessing).

The Parable of the Talents illustrates the importance of being good stewards of resources entrusted to us by God. “We are responsible to use well what God has given us. The issue is not how much we have but how well we use what we have.”5  Jen Wilkin asserts that the foolish servant represents hypocrites who will reject the Messiah when He comes while the faithful servants represent those who prepare for and accept the Messiah.This parable should prompt us to consider how we invest our time, resources, and abilities.

The Sheep and the Goats (Final Judgement): In this illustration of final judgement, the sheep represent those who are blessed, and the goats represent those who are cursed. It is similar to the “sorting” parables of the wheat/weeds and good/bad fish in Matthew 13. This parable contrasts followers of Christ with those interested in religion for the sake of self-promotion. True followers of Christ will reveal themselves by the fruit of their deeds towards those with the greatest needs. Jesus describes those who show tangible mercy to those in need, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:40, NIV)  When we’ re ministering to others, we’re ministering to Jesus– no matter how mundane or trivial it may seem.

As you prayerfully examine your life in light of these parables, consider how you’re living in preparation for Christ’s return. Ask the Lord to give you the strength and courage to act on any areas that could be more aligned with His will so you can look forward to hearing Him say “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21, NIV)

Follow along with our study by ordering your copy of Tara Leigh Cobble’s Knowing Jesus as King.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

  1. Jen Wilkin, Matthew: Warnings of Judgement, The Village Church, Feb. 1, 2018
  2. “What does it mean that one will be taken and the other left (Matthew 24:40)?” got questions.org
  3. N.T. Wright, “Farwell to the Rapture”
  4. NIV Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, 1988, 1712.
  5. ibid

Appendix

1) Preterist or Postmillienialism: This interpretation views the events in chapter twenty four as having been already completed, It emphasizes the historical destruction of the temple by the Romans in Jerusalem in 70 AD as the fulfillment of Matthew 24-25. It contends that Christian influence on the world will continue to spread until the second coming of Christ.

2) Futurist or Premillenialism: This interpretation views the events in chapter twenty four as a future reality. It emphasizes the final return of Christ and the events leading up to it. It contends that Christians will be increasingly persecuted, there will be a literal tribulation, and a millennial (1000 year) reign of Christ on earth before the establishment of the New Heavens and New Earth. This is the most common interpretation that became the prevailing view in the 20thcentury. The Left Behind series and other books, movies and music focused on the rapture of all believers from earth.

3) Hybrid or Amillenialism: This interpretation emphasizes the destruction of Jerusalem as a foreshadowing of the final return of Christ at the end of time. It contends that God’s triumph in the current age is primarily spiritual rather than material. The Church will continue to experience persecution. There is no literal millennium and the final reign of God will be established with the second coming of Christ. The end times began at the ascension of Christ and will culminate with His return.

Instructions of the King: Matthew 11-13

Matthew’s gospel continues revealing the heart and character of Jesus through His teaching and interactions with others in chapters 11-13. Sandwiched between stories of Him pronouncing woe on the unrepentant and clashing with the Pharisees about their legalism, Matthew includes a short paragraph of teaching that may be familiar to you: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV)

A “yoke” is a farming implement—a curved wooden beam placed across the necks of two animals so that they can bear the weight of pulling a load together. For years, I failed to understand the depth of this illustration. Frederick Dale Bruner explains, “A yoke is a work instrument. Thus when Jesus offers a yoke he offers what we might think tired workers need least. They need a mattress or a vacation, not a yoke. But Jesus realizes that the most restful gift he can give the tired is a new way to carry life, a fresh way to bear responsibilities… instead of offering escape, Jesus offers equipment. Jesus means that obedience to his Sermon on the Mount [his yoke] will develop in us a balance and a ‘way’ of carrying life that will give more rest than the way we have been living.”1

 Author and pastor John Mark Comer clarifies further: “Every rabbi had his ‘yoke’—a Hebrew idiom for his set of teachings, his way of reading the Scripture, his take on how to thrive as a human being in God’s good world. How you, too could taste a little of what they’d tasted.”2  Comer says a rabbi’s life and teaching were his credentials; his disciples traveled with him and learned from him through daily experiences. Later in Matthew’s gospel, Jesus compares His yoke with the Pharisees’: “They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.” (Matt 23:4, NIV) Highlighting their hypocrisy, Jesus contrasts their legalism with living according to His upside-down kingdom.

I love how Pastor Eugene Peterson paraphrases Matthew 11:28-30: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”3

Perhaps you’re familiar with the saying, “We become what we behold.4 Where we focus our attention determines how we view ourselves, other people, and the world around us. What we see shapes who we are and what we believe. So, if you’re wondering why you’re feeling anxious, insecure, afraid, jealous, angry, or overwhelmed, more often than you’re living “freely and lightly,” consider where you fix your gaze most of the time.

In my recent post, “Origin of the King: Matthew 1-4” I quoted C.S. Lewis, who describes Jesus as the “rightful king” who has landed on earth to re-claim “enemy-occupied territory.”5  Followers of Jesus live in the tension of residing in an evil-soaked world while maintaining a kingdom-focused mindset. We win the battle for our attention by engaging Jesus daily for wisdom, strength, peace, and rest. “My yoke is easy and my burden is light” isn’t just an inspirational phrase for a coffee mug, it’s a call to walk closely linked with Jesus in all that we do. The rest He gives the weary and burdened is a soul-level state of being, not a weekend away from the pressures of life.

One of the teaching ministers at my church recently gave a sermon contrasting mindsets reflecting the kingdom of the world and the upside down kingdom of God:6

Kingdom of the World Mindset Kingdom of God Mindset
Spending every bonus or raise on a bigger house, newer car, or more toys, because that’s what “success” looks like.

 

 Choosing to give sacrificially, even when you could upgrade your lifestyle. Extra funds are given sacrificially and generosity is viewed as an eternal investment.
Filling every night with sports, Netflix, or hobbies, with no space left for serving, rest, or community.

 

 Structuring your week so there’s room for prayer, worship, and hospitality, even if it means saying no to activities everyone else assumes are essential.
Cutting ties when people annoy you, disagree with you, or don’t benefit you.

 

 Choosing forgiveness, reconciliation, and patience — staying committed to love even when it costs you comfort.
Complaining, blaming, or numbing with entertainment when life gets hard.

 

 Turning to prayer, Scripture, and hope in God’s promises; showing joy and trust that confuses the world.
Raising kids with the main goal of good grades, athletic success, and getting into the right college — because that’s what everyone else… is chasing.

 

 Raising kids with the goal of knowing Jesus, loving others, and living faithfully — even if that means turning down opportunities, slowing the pace, or choosing different priorities than every other family on the block.

These ideas may sound unrealistic, overwhelming, and convicting to you. Instead of dismissing them, will you ask God to reveal one that you can surrender to Him so you can recover your life and experience real rest?

Studies show that engaging Scripture four or more times a week is the key to life transformation. 7 Since the yoke of Jesus is laid out in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), reading it regularly is a simple way to open yourself to soul rest and the unforced rhythms of grace. Are you willing to give it a try?

You can follow along with our study by ordering your copy of Tara Leigh Cobble’s Knowing Jesus as King.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

  1. Fredrick Dale Bruner, Matthew: A Commentary Volume 1 The Christbook, Matthew 1-12; Grand Rapids MI, Eardmans, 2004 as quoted in John Mark Comer’s The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, Waterbrook, 2019, 86-7
  2. John Mark Comer, Practicing the Way, Waterbrook, 2024, 4
  3. Eugene Peterson, The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language, Navpress, 1993
  4. Attributed to William Blake’s 1804 poem “Milton” inspired by Psalm 115:8
  5. C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, Geoffrey Bles Publishing, 1952
  6. Caleb Bonifay, “What Does it Mean to be Holy?” CPC Danville, Aug. 31, 2025
  7. “Bible Engagement and the ‘Power of 4’: A Key to Spiritual Growth”, Center for Bible Engagement 

Message of the King: Matthew 5-7

This past week has been a rough one in our nation. Violence and deep ideological divisions have dominated headlines. Unfiltered emotions and opinions continue spewing out through conversations, text threads, social media, and news outlets.  They evoke a range of responses—anger, confusion, fear, anxiety. Rather than letting strong reactions lead us, we can discover deep wisdom for responding to these current events by opening our Bibles.

Not surprisingly, the content we’re walking through this week in Matthew five through seven provides timely relevance.  We’ll see how Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount reveals the stark contrast between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world. In it, He calls citizens of His upside-down kingdom to live from the inside out.

The sermon starts with eight statements known as the Beatitudes. Deeper than a spiritual checklist, the Beatitudes show us “Spiritual poverty is square one. We cannot participate in the kingdom of heaven without recognizing our desperate need for God.”1   The statements Jesus makes aren’t just wisdom to be pondered, but mindsets to adopt and behaviors to practice. They are the antidote to our sinful nature. C.S. Lewis explains, “What Satan put into the heads of our remote ancestors [Adam and Eve] was the idea that they could ‘be like gods’—could set up on their own as if they had created themselves—be their own masters—invent some sort of happiness for themselves outside God, apart from God.”

Lewis continues, “God made us: invented us as a man invents an engine. A car is made to run on gasoline, and it would not run properly on anything else. Now God designed the human machine to run on Himself. He Himself is the fuel our spirits were designed to burn, or the food our spirits were designed to feed on. There is no other. That is why it is just no good asking God to make us happy in our own way without bothering about religion. God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.”2

The Sermon on the Mount shows us how to “fuel our spirits” and to live in a way that builds God’s kingdom on earth. Covering a multitude of topics, Jesus’ primary concern is with our hearts and actions aligning with Him. In essence, He’s calling us to live from the inside out–prioritizing integrity and demonstrating joyful obedience to His higher call. He admonishes us to examine our own hearts and to consider the fruit we bear instead of targeting the faults of others.

The opening lines of Matthew chapter five tell us that Jesus saw the crowds, went up on a mountain, and sat down to teach His disciples. The teaching in the Sermon on the Mount is not intended to weigh us down with rules or to tell us how to find salvation but to show the way to conduct ourselves as citizens of His kingdom and members of His family. Learning to live this way is a lifelong pursuit that requires practice, commitment, and focus.

Let’s take a peek at the upside-down teaching from Matthew 5:3-10 (ESV) and see what it looks like to live from the inside out.

  1. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Being poor in spirit is admitting that you are sinful and completely destitute spiritually. You acknowledge you can do nothing to deliver yourself from your dire situation. Jesus says that, no matter your status, you must recognize your spiritual poverty before you can come to God in faith to receive the salvation He offers.
  2. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Those who mourn grieve over the sin that separates them from the Lord. The Spirit comforts people who are honest about their own sin and humble enough to ask for forgiveness and healing.
  3. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Meekness follows the example of Jesus by having the right or the power to do something but refraining for the benefit of someone else. Those who are meek display humility and gentleness. They aren’t weak but have a clear estimation of themselves and their standing before the Lord.
  4. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” People who have an ongoing desire for personal righteousness have deep spiritual appetites. They care more about pursuing and pleasing the Lord than winning the approval and admiration of others. Seeking the Lord and applying His Word to their lives satiates their spiritual hunger.
  5. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Those who are merciful understand that God’s mercy has been extended to them, so they give it freely to others. They demonstrate humility by offering others what they’ve received from the Lord.
  6. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” The pure in heart seek to be inwardly clean. They value the Lord’s holiness and don’t want sin to hinder their walk with Him. They pursue what is right, good, and true. They confess their sins readily and find refreshment in the Lord’s forgiveness.
  7. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Jesus gave His life to make peace between God and sinners, and when we can carry that message of peace to others, we are peacemakers. Reconciling broken relationships brings the peace of Christ into the world. Peacemakers experience inward peace with God and pursue outward peace with others. They seek genuine peace rather than avoiding conflict to create the illusion of peace.
  8. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Those who are mistreated, oppressed or maligned for doing what honors God show the depth of their love and commitment to the Lord. Rather than seeking the praise of people, they crave the approval of their Heavenly Father.

In the world’s eyes, few of these statements would be considered a blessing. However, as followers of Christ, we don’t embrace the world’s perspective. Jesus describes this in John 15 when He explains “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.” (John 15:19a, NIV) Followers of Jesus don’t belong to the world because our citizenship is in heaven: “You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family.” (Ephesians 2:19b, NLT)

Living the upside-down, inside-out life Jesus describes is difficult, especially when the world around us doesn’t value it. There can be lonely moments when we’re the only people intent on honoring and serving the Lord. Being blessed doesn’t always mean experiencing comfort or ease on this side of heaven but the Sermon on the Mount encourages us to take the long view and embrace the lasting truth the Lord imparts to us in it.

A few summers back I wrote fifteen posts on the Sermon on the Mount, following along with a sermon series our pastor titled “The GOAT” (greatest of all time). For a deeper dive on each topic, click on any of the blue links below.

Beatitudes  Full- length version of the eight-point list above

Salt   Responding to Jesus’ call to be the salt of the earth gives us the privilege and responsibility of having a tremendous impact on our world. We must marinate in God’s Word and let His Spirit flavor our lives.

Light Each interaction we have with others provides a chance to make the world a little better and to shine our lights a little brighter. Invite the Lord to show you where you can shine the light of His love and grace.

Law & Prophets Jesus fulfilled hundreds of prophecies concerning Himself that had been written by the prophets in the Old Testament. He also fulfilled the requirements of the civil and moral laws in Scripture by living a perfect life and the ceremonial laws through His sacrificial death on the cross.

Anger Cooling a hot temper is not accomplished overnight. But through prayer, Bible study, and reliance upon the Holy Spirit, ungodly anger can be overcome. Seek to glorify God and watch your thoughts and relationships change for the better.

Adultery & Divorce  Being faithful in our relationships means guarding our hearts (Proverbs 4:23) and taking extreme measures to avoid sin. Despite these teachings in Scripture, most of us have been exposed to the pain caused by divorce. That pain is part of the reason Scripture says God hates divorce (Malachi 2:15-16). Note that it does NOT say God hates divorced people. Nothing could be further from the truth. God’s love and grace are open to us all and there are no second-class citizens in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Yes & No  Next time an opportunity or invitation comes your way, pray first and evaluate whether you have the time and inclination to give it your all. Then, be confident in delivering a clear “yes” or “no” answer and be joyful in the decision you’ve made.

Revenge and Enemies Plot lines about characters retaliating for wrongs committed against them are plentiful. Just do a quick internet search and you’ll find a variety of titles to entertain you and tutor you in the art of revenge.  It’s human nature to want to get even, but it’s not biblical.

Hypocrisy  As Jesus describes giving, praying, and fasting, His message is clear: don’t be a hypocrite. He’s not interested in people who put on masks like actors and pretend to be holy, He wants hearts that are truly devoted to following Him.

Treasure  The only treasure that is 100% trustworthy is found in God’s kingdom. Our pursuit of Jesus enables us to align our priorities with His in ways that are both spiritual and practical. It opens doors for Him to use our time and finances for greater impact and lets us discover the value of lasting treasure found only in Him. And that is “life that is truly life.”

Worry  When fear and anxiety are running our lives, love is repressed. Not being anxious improves our sense of well-being and allows us to express God’s love and grace to others more freely. And isn’t that what our world desperately needs right now?

Judgement The next time you’re tempted to make a quick judgment about someone, stop and think first. What factors might be contributing to their actions and attitudes? Examine your heart and ask God to help you see the person as He sees them. Make time to understand them before being so quick to dismiss them.

Ask, Seek, Knock   Jesus invites us to pray boldly and persistently, but  waiting for God to act can get tiring. And sometimes the Lord’s answers look different than we expect or come more slowly than we want. Read about the six keys that will help you persevere.

True Christianity  Trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord of our lives means daily choosing to walk through the narrow gate. This path is open to anyone who decides to follow Him. It leads to an abundant, fulfilling life that’s unlike anything we can find on the wide road.

A Solid Foundation  In the midst of the tumult, rest assured that building our lives with Jesus as the foundation is the only lasting solution for experiencing peace and hope.

You can follow along with our study by ordering your copy of Tara Leigh Cobble’s Knowing Jesus as King.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

  1. Tara Leigh Cobble, Knowing Jesus as King, Bethany House 2024, 43.
  2. C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, Geoffrey Bles Publishing, 1952

Origin of the King: Matthew 1-4

Reading the opening chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, I was reminded of a special keepsake that has been passed down through the generations in my husband’s family. One Christmas, his uncle brought a pile of old hand-made quilts from his grandparents’ house and told all of us to choose what we wanted. There was only one that caught my eye–I loved the pattern and the colors, even though it was the most ragged one of the bunch.

Fishing it out of the pile, I unfolded it and a yellowed piece of paper fluttered out. Dated January 1, 1976 and written in his grandmother’s elegant script, the first sentence read: “These are the names on this quilt mostly made in 1809 and taken overland by covered wagon on the Oregon Trail.” With hearts pounding, we examined it more carefully and found multiple names embroidered onto it. We realized the tattered old quilt was a priceless family heirloom tracing back over 200 years. Honored to have it, the quilt personally connects us to the history of the Oregon Trail and the many hearty souls who traveled on it. We have a link to the past that adds color and texture to our family history.

I pulled out that quilt to admire it again as I was reviewing the long list of names tracing Jesus’ genealogy back through the generations in Matthew chapter one. Most of us wouldn’t find that as an exciting “attention grabber” to start a book, but for the original Jewish audience, it would’ve brought to mind people they’d learned about previously in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Bible teacher Jen Wilkin explains that Matthew’s intent was for his primarily Jewish audience to see and understand that Jesus was the fulfillment of all God’s promises in the Old Testament. Although we may find genealogies in the Bible boring to read, knowing the stories behind the people makes them come to life. Jen Wilkin points out that genealogies in Scripture show us that God sees us as individuals and knows us each by name.1  It’s like seeing the names of previously unknown ancestors embroidered on a family quilt. Suddenly faceless people from the past become distinct individuals with personal stories.

Matthew traces Jesus’ family tree through His earthly father, Joseph, to show that Jesus’ lineage proves He has a legal right to Israel’s throne. He is the long-awaited Messiah and King promised throughout the Old Testament. (You can watch a video teaching I did on this by clicking here. Fast forward 18 minutes to get to the start.)

This fall I’ll be writing in conjunction with Tara Leigh Cobble’s Knowing Jesus as King to help us walk through the Gospel of Matthew together. We’re going to see Jesus portrayed as the one true king who enters the world to re-establish God’s righteous kingdom on earth. In his classic book Mere Christianity, beloved author, scholar, and former atheist C.S. Lewis explains: “Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed, you might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage [against the enemy].”2 So, making the choice to study the Bible and apply what we’re learning advances God’s kingdom into “enemy-occupied territory.”

Overview of Themes: The Gospel of Matthew tells the story of Jesus from birth to death to resurrection and shows Him as the rightful king who came to earth to restore His kingdom. It is a book filled with contrasts: The Kingdom of God vs. the Kingdom of the World, Pride vs. Humility, Self-Righteousness vs. God’s Grace, Hypocrisy vs. Pure Heartedness, Feeling Anxious vs. Trusting God. Matthew not only teaches us about the life of Jesus, he also gives us practical wisdom for how to function as citizens of His kingdom while we’re still living in enemy-occupied territory.

Chapter one continues beyond the genealogy with the birth of Christ. The narrative focuses on Joseph and describes Jesus’ earthly father as a righteous man. After encountering an angel, he decides to remain betrothed to Mary despite her seemingly scandalous pregnancy. Joseph’s actions reveal his whole-hearted belief in the angel’s proclamation: “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.” (1:21) Never missing an opportunity to highlight Old Testament prophecy, Matthew writes, “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: `The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’).” (1:22-23)

Chapter two continues with the Christmas story as wise men from the east come seeking the Christ child in Bethlehem after observing a star heralding His birth. “Most likely, the magi knew of the writings of the prophet Daniel, who in time past had been the chief of the court seers in Persia. Daniel 9:24-27 includes a prophecy which gives a timeline for the birth of the Messiah.”3

After the Magi depart, Joseph encounters an angel in a dream with an urgent message: “’Get up,’ he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.’” (2:13b, NIV) Heeding the warning without delay, Joseph departs for Egypt with his wife and child during the night, escaping King Herod’s vicious slaughter of baby boys in Bethlehem.

Sometime later, an angel again appears to Joseph in a dream saying, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.” (2:20) Joseph’s responsiveness to God’s instructions despite the incredible hardship and inconvenience reveals a humble and obedient heart. There’s much to admire and imitate about his quickness to obey the Lord.

In chapter three we meet Jesus’ relative John the Baptist, “preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’” (3:1b-2) Pointing out another fulfilled prophecy, Matthew highlights John as the one foretold by the prophet Isaiah, “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” (3:3) You may remember John from the Christmas story in Luke. He’s the baby who leapt within the womb of his mother, Elizabeth, at the arrival of Mary, pregnant with the Messiah.

Baptizing repentant sinners in preparation for the coming of the Christ, John hesitates when Jesus asks to be immersed in the waters. Believing he isn’t even fit to untie Jesus’ sandals, John only agrees when Jesus says, “It is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” (3:15) As Jesus comes up out of the water, Matthew confirms Him as the Christ and spotlights each person of the Trinity: “heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’” (3:16b-17) Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry at age thirty.

In chapter four  the Spirit leads Christ “into the desert to be tempted by the devil.” (4:1b) The enemy appears to Jesus when He’s weakened and exhausted at the end of a forty day fast. Tempting Him in three different ways, the devil lures Him to succumb to sin. Jesus overcomes each temptation by fighting back with the words of the Scriptures. In this scene Matthew shows Jesus as a man who experiences the human struggle with sin, but also as the Messiah whose righteousness triumphs over it.

Returning from the wilderness, Jesus calls two sets of brothers who are fishermen as His first four disciples: Simon (later re-named Peter) and Andrew, James and John. The chapter closes with momentum building: “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming 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)

Just four chapters into this gospel Matthew has already included seven prophecies fulfilled by Jesus, leaving no question that He is the King of Kings.

Two themes will begin to emerge in Matthew’s writing: Jesus’ arrival  in “enemy occupied territory” to reveal His upside-down kingdom and  His repeated teachings that emphasize living from the inside out. We’ll be blazing through Matthew’s gospel in the next few months. As you read it, consider asking the Lord to reveal where He’s inviting you to shift your practices and priorities to seek His kingdom first.

You can follow along with our study by ordering your copy of Tara Leigh Cobble’s Knowing Jesus as King.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

All Scriptures quoted from the New International Version , 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011, Biblica Inc., Zondervan Publishing.

  1. Jen Wilkin, Knowing Faith Podcast, Episode 2, “Jesus’ Family Tree”, 9/13/17
  2. C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, Geoffrey Bles Publishing, 1952
  3. “What Does the Bible Say About the Three Wise Men (Magi)?”https://www.gotquestions.org

On Earth as It Is in Heaven

 The front cover of Jen Wilkin’s book Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom includes a 17th century British tapestry that depicts the tree of life bearing abundant fruit and sheltering a variety of animals.  This multi-faceted piece of art (pictured above) attempts to capture John’s vision of the new Jerusalem described in Revelation 22. A tapestry is a fitting choice for the book’s cover given that the concluding chapters of Revelation tie together so many threads woven throughout Scripture. In this post we’ll cover Revelation 21:9-22:21.

Jen Wilkin explains, “With the introduction of the new Jerusalem in the seventh sight, we are invited into an extended view of all that is made new. Wars and rumors of wars are behind us. Grief and sorrow are wiped away. Sin is no longer in our midst. Satan can no longer deceive, seduce, nor persecute. And the last enemy, death, is under the feet of the One seated on the throne. The serpent’s head is crushed. The seed of the woman has triumphed.” (153)

Picking up where we left off in my last post “Seven Last Sights”, Revelation 21:9 continues with a vision of “the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, arrayed with God’s glory. Her radiance was like a precious jewel, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.” (21:10b-11, CSB) John includes a detailed description full of symbolic numbers. Twelve angels stand at twelve gates, each inscribed with the name of one of the twelve sons of Israel. Three gates face in four directions—north, south, east, and west. The city wall rests on twelve foundations named for the twelve apostles of the Lamb. Here we see a beautiful merging of the Old and New Testament that encompasses the complete scope of the created world (symbolized by the number 4) and the entirety of the people of God (symbolized by the number 12).

The vision continues with a description of the dimensions of the city—a perfect square of 12,000 stadia (1380 miles) and a wall of 144 cubits (216 feet). Jen Wilkin explains that this expanse would’ve encompassed the limits of the known world for the original readers of Revelation—indicating that the new Jerusalem would be like a vast version of the Holy of Holies covering the entire earth. In an ironic twist, precious metals and jewels that often were the object of idolatry for earth dwellers are common building materials in the city of God. (Week 10 video)

John notes that the new Jerusalem does not have a temple “because the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.” (21:22b) The time for making sacrifices of atonement has passed, so the need for a temple is unnecessary. Also missing in the new Jerusalem are the sun and moon “because the glory of God illuminates it, and its lamp is the Lamb.” (21:23b)  This echoes John’s writings on light in other parts of Scripture as well: “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5b NIV) and “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” (John 1:4, NIV)

With the enemy defeated and final judgement complete, there is no threat of evil entering the holy city. The gates of the new Jerusalem remain eternally open because “Nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (21:27)  God’s beloved people remain safe and secure for eternity. His kingdom has come and His will has been done on earth, just as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:10)

John’s vision continues in Revelation 22, where we discover that the new Jerusalem is a garden city. The river of life flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the city’s main street. “The tree of life was on each side of the river, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree are for healing the nations, and there will no longer be any curse.” (22:3) This echoes a vision described in Ezekiel: “Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.” (Ezekiel 47:12, NIV)

With Eden restored, God’s people will once again walk in close fellowship with Him in the garden. This is a stunning contrast to the Lord’s explanation when Moses asks to see Him face to face: “He said, ‘you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live…When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.” (Exodus 33:20,22-23, NIV) In the new garden city with perfected bodies “his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.” (22:3b-4)

This portion of John’s vision ends with a reiteration: “Night will be no more; people will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, because the Lord God will give them light, and they will right forever and ever.” (22:5) Many threads from Scripture tie together here– most notably, Jesus’ words about Himself, also recorded by John: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NIV)

Revelation 22:6-21 brings John’s vision to a close with some final words—including five reminders that the time for Jesus’ return is near. John includes direct quotes from Christ: “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” (22:7) Throughout our study of Revelation, I’ve been struck by the notion of “keeping” God’s words in the forefront of my mind. John’s vision makes it clear that God wins in the end and honors those who remain steadfast and true to Him. I keep thinking about the push for instant gratification and indulgence that our culture drives toward with increasing momentum. Is this the enemy’s way of lulling people into complacency? Is he conditioning us to avoid doing what is hard or waiting for what is best and right? As people opt for temporary satisfaction and pleasure, are they forfeiting eternal peace and joy like those who take the mark of the beast? It’s a battle to remain faithful to God and to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, but it’s one well worth fighting.

As the chapter progresses John continues recording Jesus’ words, “Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates.” (22:14) Those wearing garments cleansed in the blood of Christ freely enter God’s eternal dwelling and eat from the tree of life. This is an incredible full circle moment redeeming the tragedy of the first garden:

“The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. And the Lord God said, ‘The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever.’ So the Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.” (Genesis 3:21-24, NIV)

To protect them from living eternally in a fallen state, the Lord banishes Adam and Eve from Eden and kills animals to provide garments for them. This is the first time blood will be spilled to cover sin. Now, in Revelation, He clothes His people in garments covered in His blood; His death atones for their sins, the curse has been removed, and they freely eat from the tree of life in God’s eternal city.

In this passage Jesus also describes Himself as “the Root and descendant of David” weaving together the thread of a promise made to King David back in 2 Samuel: “The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you: ‘When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom…Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’” (2 Samuel 7:11b, 12, 16, NIV)

John ends his book with great anticipation “Both the Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ Let anyone who hears, say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come. Let the one who desires take the water of life freely.” (22:17) Dwelling within all believers, the Spirit joyfully awaits Christ’s return. Likewise, His bride, the Church (which includes all followers of Jesus), looks for His return with great expectancy. Yet again, we’re reminded of earlier passages in Scripture that this final statement ties together. Consider this prophecy in Isaiah: “Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs… But only the redeemed will walk there, and those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.” (Isaiah 35:6b,7a, 9b, 10, NIV)

Jesus’ own words from John’s gospel also speak of living water: “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14, NIV)

So many people avoid delving into Revelation. But, as Jen Wilkin reminds us throughout our study, it’s primarily a recapitulation of earlier Scriptures. For years I’ve poured time into studying many books of the Bible but have avoided this final one. While Revelation does have some unsettling content that provides important warnings, it is also a book filled with hope and encouragement for all who call on the name of Jesus. Despite the length of my post, I’ve barely touched on all the threads that weave together to make this beautiful tapestry of God’s Word.

“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep what is written in it, because the time is near…Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!” (1:3 & 22:20b)

  • Tapestry image from the Metropolitan Museum of Art (public domain). Click here to read the history.
  • Jen Wilkin, Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom, Lifeway Press, 2024.
  • All Scripture quoted from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), unless noted otherwise.

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From Beginning to Forever

Each week as we’ve studied Elizabeth Woodson’s From Beginning to Forever the lesson has ended with an opportunity to summarize the portions of Scripture covered that week. So, by the end of the study, participants have written an overview of the entire Bible. Following the chapters of the study, here’s my humble attempt at re-telling the highlights of the grand narrative of Scripture:

The Creation and Corruption of the Kingdom: Genesis

In the beginning God creates the heavens, the earth and everything in them including the sun, moon, stars, plants, animals, and people. God creates humans in His image and tells them to multiply His kingdom and to rule and subdue the earth. The first two humans, Adam and Eve, succumb to temptation and choose to do the one forbidden thing—eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This breaks their fellowship with God and brings the pollution of sin into the pure and perfect world. God promises one day Eve’s offspring will crush the serpent who led them to sin, giving the first prophecy of the Messiah.

A Promise to Restore the Kingdom: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

God makes a covenant with Abraham promising him land, numerous descendants, and blessing that will impact all people on earth. The Lord confirms this covenant with Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his grandson, Jacob. God changes Jacob’s name to Israel (although both names continue to be used interchangeably after this.) Later, Jacob’s sons sell their brother, Joseph, to slave traders who take him to Egypt. After many trials, Joseph becomes second in command of Egypt and, through God’s direction, prepares the country for a severe famine. The rest of Jacob’s family later emigrates to Egypt to escape the famine. After several generations Jacob’s descendants (known as Hebrews or Israelites) became slaves in Egypt. About 400 years later, God uses Moses to deliver the Israelites from slavery, to lead them to the promised land, and to help them become a distinct nation with clear laws and boundaries.

A Divided Kingdom: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

After 40 years in the desert, Joshua leads the Israelites into the promised land to take possession of it and fulfill God’s promise. A series of judges rule Israel until the people demand a king. Saul becomes the first king, but his disobedience displeases God and he loses His favor. David becomes the next king. Although he’s imperfect, he seeks to follow God’s heart and the Lord promises his offspring will rule eternally, foreshadowing the Messiah. Solomon succeeds David as king and is wise and wealthy, but unfaithful to God by marrying Gentiles and worshipping their gods. The kingdom divides when Solomon’s foolish son, Rehoboam, becomes king (the northern kingdom is called Israel, the southern kingdom is called Judah). Disobedience causes both kingdoms to be taken captive about 130 years apart–the northern kingdom is exiled to Assyria and the southern kingdom is exiled to Babylon. After exile, King Cyrus of Persia allows the Jews of the southern kingdom to return and rebuild their temple in Jerusalem under Ezra’s leadership and King Artaxerxes of the citadel of Susa allows the rebuilding of the city walls under Nehemiah’s leadership. The Israelites continue to struggle with disobedience and worship of false gods through subsequent generations.

Life in the Kingdom: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs

Wisdom literature in Job, Psalms, and Proverbs provides guidance, encouragement, and warning for people living in the time period covered in the previous section. These writings give a framework for a life of flourishing that includes: 1) acquiring wisdom and following the law 2) fearing the Lord 3) submitting to suffering. Prophets enforce God’s covenants and remind people of the blessings and curses God will bring as a result of their obedience or disobedience. The Israelites are supposed to exemplify God’s love and faithfulness but worship idols and participate in sin and social injustice instead. As a consequence, God exiles them to Assyria and Babylon (mentioned in the previous section). Prophets give the people hope that a Messiah will come to bring salvation and restore them. Despite their sinfulness, the Lord continues to be faithful.

The Arrival of the King: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

God remains silent for 400 years between the books of Malachi and Matthew. The New Testament opens with the birth of the promised Messiah, Jesus.  Throughout the course of His life He fulfills all the prophecies and covenants related to the Messiah in the Old Testament, overcomes temptation, and remains sinless. During His years of ministry He heals people, casts out demons, brings dead people back to life, and preaches about the kingdom of God. Jesus teaches that belief in Him will bring eternal life and reconciliation with God, His Father. Despite His innocence, Jewish leaders accuse Him of blasphemy and convince the Romans to charge Him with treason and crucify Him. Three days after dying on the cross, Jesus resurrects from death and appears to many of His followers to give them final instructions and prepare them  for the arrival of His Holy Spirit.

The Kingdom Community: Acts thru Jude

Before ascending into heaven, Jesus gives His followers the mission to go make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and teaching the to obey everything He commands. His followers receive the Holy Spirit and become witnesses for Him in Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond. In the book of Acts God shows Peter that the gospel is for everyone–Jews and Gentiles can both be included in the family of God through Christ. Paul preaches the gospel far and wide to both Jews and Gentiles, teaching them that they are saved through faith in Jesus by God’s grace. The epistles explain God’s call for  believers to be ambassadors of Christ and to walk worthy of their calling in Him. Additionally, the epistles warn against false teaching and encourage believers in the midst of the trials and persecution they face while living as aliens and strangers in the world.

 The Kingdom is Restored: Revelation

Exiled on the Island of Patmos, the elderly Apostle John receives a series of visions revealing events that will unfold before and during Jesus’ return to earth. In his vision, John witnesses the throne room of heaven, God’s wrath poured out on rebellious and sinful people, the final judgement, the defeat of Satan, and the physical return of Christ. John sees the old heaven and earth pass away and the merging of a new heaven and earth. In the New Jerusalem God dwells with His people and Jesus rules and reigns with them for eternity. The shalom of the garden is finally restored and God’s plans and purposes prevail.

Understanding the Kingdom- A Worthy Endeavor

I’ve been learning about the Bible all of my life, have read it from start to finish several times, and have been studying it consistently for the past 25 years. Despite all of this time in God’s Word, I’ve never been able to summarize it like this before (shout out to Elizabeth Woodson for crafting a study that made it possible for me to give this overview). The more I learn, the more I realize how beautiful and multi-faceted Scripture is.  Reading it, believing it, and applying it is truly a worthy endeavor. God’s Word is living and active; it shows us everything needed to live a life of purpose and flourishing now and forevermore.

Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

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Life in the Kingdom

If you’ve ever watched a show and taken a break between seasons, you know the value of the recap after the opening credits that says, “Previously on…”

Since we’ve had some time off, let’s do a quick review of where we left off in From Beginning to Forever by Elizabeth Woodson. Here are the highlights of Session 4 “A Divided Kingdom”: Joshua leads the Israelites into the promised land; judges rule over Israel until the people demand a king. Saul becomes the first king but loses God’s favor when he disobeys Him. David becomes the next king and, although he commits some major sins, he shows repentance and seeks God’s heart. Solomon succeeds David as king and is wise and wealthy, but unfaithful to the Lord by marrying Gentile women and worshipping their false gods. Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, becomes king and the kingdom splits in two—Israel to the north and Judah to the south. Disobedience to God causes both nations to be taken captive and exiled at different times—the northern kingdom of Israel in Assyria and the southern kingdom of Judah in Babylon. After exile, those from the southern kingdom return and rebuild the temple and walls of Jerusalem under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah. The Jewish people continue to struggle with disobedience and worship false gods in the years that follow. (Phew–we just covered a lot of ground!)

This week, we circle back to the same time period to examine the wisdom literature of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs and all of the major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. These twenty-two books teach us what it means to live as people of God “during the in-between moments of joy, sorrow, anger, and celebration.” (Woodson, 98) With so much rich content in Elizabeth Woodson’s book, let’s pull out some key points that prompt personal reflection, soul searching, and prayer.

Job: Living in obedience to God doesn’t mean we avoid pain and suffering. The wisdom offered in the book of Job focuses on how we respond to hardship.  “Job’s story taught Israel, and also teaches us, that righteousness and suffering are not contradictory but two sides of the same coin.” (Woodson, 100) Often in our culture today, we see pain, hardships, challenges, and trials as “bad” because we’ve been taught to prize comfort and ease. But through Job and others in Scripture, we see pain and hardship are tools God uses for ultimate good.

Our reflex is to avoid pain or to numb ourselves in the midst of it. But, what if, instead of turning away, we leaned into it? What if we asked God what He wanted us to learn from it or how He wanted to reveal Himself through it? What if, instead of being angry or offended when we go through trials, we counted them as joy, just as James encourages us to do: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4, NIV)

Psalms: The 150 songs written by a variety of authors including David and Moses “don’t rush past emotion but give space for our gamut of emotions to be felt and expressed before the Lord…Whether the psalmist was expressing bitter sorrow or exuberant joy, he was ultimately leading the reader to worship the Lord. The life of flourishing is one fully engaged in the worship of God, even during the hardest seasons.” (Woodson, 101)

Is worshiping God the first response you have in difficult times of life? Do you believe true flourishing comes from obeying the Lord? If so, how has your life shown this to be true?

Proverbs: The thirty-one chapters of Proverbs show us “how to live God’s way in God’s world…[but they are] principles, not promises.” (Woodson, 103) Proverbs sets up contrasting ways to live—the way of wisdom or the way of folly. It shows that “Only by following Him can we be formed into the kind of people who experience true flourishing in His kingdom.” (Woodson, 104) If we want the blessing and benefit of living within God’s kingdom, our focus needs to be on aligning with His will, not expecting Him to do things our way.

What practices have you incorporated into your daily rhythms that keep you walking the path of wisdom and aligning with God’s will? When you veer into folly, what safeguards do you have in place to bring you back into the way of wisdom?

Ecclesiastes: This book’s author, Solomon, had all that life could give any one person—wealth, power, relationships, and wisdom. Yet, he “realized that ultimate meaning was not found in possessions, intellect, or experiences but in God.” (Woodson, 105)

Where are you prone to seek ultimate meaning in life other than God? What distracts you most from spiritual pursuits? How might the frustration, disappointment, resentment, fear, or hurt that you experience be an indicator that you’re seeking fulfillment in something other than the Lord?

Song of Songs: This series of love poems reveals a flourishing, vibrant relationship between a husband and wife. Elsewhere in Scripture we see that marriage is a picture of the relationship between Christ and His church. Intimacy, mutual submission, and willingness to serve one another reveal love on many levels.

How has our culture cheapened the sacredness of marriage and sexual flourishing? How are you tempted to buy into the “low view” of marriage as a legal contract instead of a holy covenant?

The Prophets: The seventeen books of prophecy that make up the last chunk of the Old Testament were written by “covenant enforcers” to urge the Israelites to “obey the covenant, reminding them of the blessings that would come from obedience and the curses from disobedience…They spoke of consequences but also gave Israel encouragement, reminding the people of the hope of their promised King.” (Woodson, 107) Prophets warned the people to return to God when they strayed before they were exiled, encouraged them to trust God and not lose hope during exile, and urged them to stay on track once they returned to Judah. In every season of Israel’s history, the prophets admonished the people not to engage in social injustice or idol worship. “God showed His patience through the message of the prophets, giving the Israelites a long time to repent and return to living as His people in obedience to the covenant. But He was also faithful, upholding the promises of judgement He made to Israel, even as far back as Moses.” (Woodson, 110)

In our culture, we are often quick to reject words of conviction or correction and react to the concept of God’s judgement by feeling offended (It’s not that different from the Israelites’ reaction to the prophets). We live in a period when truth is relative and based solely on feelings and opinions. But our choices to ignore God’s Word impact us and others. As my pastor likes to say, “sin splashes.” If we’re following Jesus, we need to be open and responsive to conviction. Rather than hiding our sin or making excuses, we need to follow the example of David and see confession and repentance as an opportunity to restore a right relationship with the Lord: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV) We need the wisdom and discernment to stand firm in a culture that tells us right and wrong are based on personal preference.

Do you float with the current of popular culture without considering where it differs from God’s ways? Do you know where you’re vulnerable to sin? Are you open to conviction and willing to be held accountable?

With so many questions in this post, one or two might have poked at you and made you uncomfortable. Consider stopping to pray and admit your feelings of conviction to God. Invite Him to speak to you and ask for His help to obey Him where you’ve veered off course. His mercies are new every morning and He’s always ready to hear your heart and help you realign with His.

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Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

Seated in Heavenly Places

A couple of years ago my son brought a friend home from college to spend Thanksgiving with us. During that week he participated in the rhythms of our family—eating meals with us, sleeping on our couch, helping us prepare for Thanksgiving, and getting to know our extended family around the table. We welcomed his presence, but he was a temporary member of our household for a short season. Because he didn’t share our last name, he didn’t have keys to our house or his own bed. Nor were we paying for his college tuition or planning to give him an inheritance one day. As much as we enjoyed having him, he will never have all the privileges our sons have. 

Being part of a family gives us a sense of belonging and identity along with certain benefits. It gives us legal rights, security, and protection in the earthly realm. But as we read Ephesians, we discover that God gives those with faith in Christ something even better and more lasting: adoption into His eternal household (Ephesians 1:5, 2:19). Included with this adoption is a rich spiritual inheritance and a new position: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:4-6, NIV- italics added)

If you’ve accepted Jesus, then you’re an adopted child of God; you’ve been brought from death to life and have received salvation by God’s grace. And if that’s not amazing enough, you are also seated with Christ in heavenly realms. We can be physically present on earth but simultaneously engaging the spiritual world.1 When Paul prays that the eyes of our hearts will be opened in Ephesians 1:18, he’s awakening us to the reality of the spiritual world that exists all around us all the time. Let’s explore a few highlights of the incredible privilege of being seated with Christ:

-Christ’s position in the heavenly realms shows His completed work.1 He is seated and at rest after fulfilling all of the requirements He came to earth to accomplish: Becoming a man and identifying with our humanity; shedding blood and dying on the cross to atone for our sins; overcoming death to reveal His ultimate power and authority. After making these sacrifices, the Father “seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” (Ephesians 1:20b-21, ESV). His seated position assures us He has finished the work required for our salvation.

-Being seated at the right hand of the Father signifies Christ’s place of highest honor and spiritual authority. “And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” (Ephesians 2:22-23 NIV) Being seated with Him is “much like being seated at the VIP table of a Presidential luncheon. We have been given the royal privilege of being enthroned with the Son and will one day partake of His glory.”2

-Being seated with Christ in heavenly places means we have access to spiritual privileges and blessings such as redemption, spiritual insight, and forgiveness. We also have spiritual authority and power to defeat forces of evil.* Paul expands on this a few chapters later in Ephesians: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:10-12, NIV)

-God raised us up “in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” Our honored position seated with Christ displays God’s rich grace and deep kindness. Letting this spiritual truth sink in should change the way we see ourselves and how we engage the world around us. Our position in God’s family is secure, but we did nothing to earn it. It is only through the love, grace, and kindness of God that we humbly receive all the rights and privileges He bestows on His children.

Consider the incredible truth contained in these points and how you might respond in prayer. Do you need your spiritual eyes to be opened more so that you can see God at work in the spiritual realm? Is it time to marvel at the incredible sacrifices Christ made on your behalf and to praise Him for His completed work? Perhaps now is the time to be in awe of His spiritual authority and to praise Him for sharing it with you. Maybe you’ll want to ask the Father to help you understand His spiritual blessings  and power so you can access them more. Or perhaps you simply want to thank God for His kindness—for including you in His family and lavishing you with all the rights and privileges of a beloved child.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

Inspired by Ephesians: A Study of Faith and Practice by Jackie Hill Perry, Jasmine Holmes and Melissa Kruger, Lifeway Press, 2024.

1. Patrick Oben, “Seated in Heavenly Places  In Christ”

2. “What Does It Mean to be Seated in Heavenly Places? (Ephesians 2:6)” 

*Learn more about your spiritual authority in Christ in my blog “Claiming Your Spiritual Authority: The Armor of God Part 1”