Meaning of Matthew 10:7

Matthew 10:7 instructs Jesus' disciples, as they are sent out on their initial mission, to proclaim the imminent arrival of the "kingdom of heaven." This proclamation is not merely a statement of future hope but a declaration of present reality, signifying that God's reign and rule, embodied in Jesus' ministry, have drawn near to the people. It is a call to recognize that the power and presence of God's kingdom are actively at work through Jesus and his emissaries, demanding a response of repentance and faith.

Context and Background

This directive is found within the commissioning of the twelve apostles in Matthew chapter 10. Jesus is sending them out with specific instructions and authority to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons. Their mission is to be a tangible demonstration of the kingdom's presence, preceding Jesus' own arrival in particular towns and villages. The message, "The kingdom of heaven has come near," is therefore the verbal component of this divinely empowered outreach, announcing that the era of God's direct intervention and sovereignty has dawned.

Key Themes and Messages

The central theme is the imminence of the kingdom. It's not a distant eschatological event but a present reality breaking into the world through Jesus and his disciples. This implies a call to immediate attention and action. Another key theme is divine authority, as the disciples are empowered by Jesus to act on behalf of the kingdom. The message itself is a form of evangelism, designed to stir people to consider their spiritual state and respond to God's overtures. It also carries a sense of urgency, as opportunities to enter the kingdom are presented as present and potentially fleeting.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, this verse serves as a foundational principle for mission and evangelism. It reminds us that the kingdom of God is not just a future hope but a present reality that should be actively proclaimed and lived out. It calls for a recognition of God's active reign in our lives and communities, and for a willingness to be His agents in bringing His presence and power to bear. The application involves not only verbal proclamation but also living lives that reflect the values and transformative power of God's kingdom.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a crucial link in the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan. It echoes the Old Testament prophecies of a coming kingdom and a Messiah who would establish it. Jesus' ministry is the fulfillment of these prophecies, and the disciples' proclamation announces this fulfillment. It sets the stage for the ongoing work of the church, which continues to be the bearer of the kingdom message, advancing God's reign until its ultimate consummation.

Analogies

One analogy for "the kingdom of heaven has come near" is the arrival of a royal dignitary in a town. The king's heralds go ahead, announcing, "The King is coming! Prepare the way!" Their presence and message signify that the king's authority and influence are now present and active in that locality. Another analogy is the opening of a new, life-changing facility—like a hospital or a school. The announcement that it has "come near" means access to its benefits is now possible, and people are invited to partake.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse is intimately connected with Jesus' own declaration in Matthew 4:17: "From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'" The disciples are essentially echoing their Master's initial message. It also relates to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs his followers to "go and make disciples of all nations," which is the ongoing expansion of the kingdom. Furthermore, it aligns with the prayer Jesus taught: "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10), highlighting the present desire and prayer for God's reign to be manifest.