Primary Study
Grafted Bible Dictionary
Definition
The Kingdom of Heaven is Matthew's characteristic expression for the reign of God.
It is generally parallel in meaning to Kingdom of God.
It is generally parallel in meaning to Kingdom of God.
Jewish Context
Jewish speech often used circumlocutions to speak reverently about God.
"Heaven" could function as a respectful way of referring to divine authority.
"Heaven" could function as a respectful way of referring to divine authority.
Matthew
Examples include:
• Matthew 3:2
• Matthew 4:17
• Matthew 5:3
• Matthew 13
• Matthew 18:1–4
Parallel passages in other Gospels frequently use "Kingdom of God."
This strongly suggests that Matthew is not describing a separate kingdom.
• Matthew 3:2
• Matthew 4:17
• Matthew 5:3
• Matthew 13
• Matthew 18:1–4
Parallel passages in other Gospels frequently use "Kingdom of God."
This strongly suggests that Matthew is not describing a separate kingdom.
Common Misconception
Claim: The Kingdom of Heaven refers only to going to heaven after death, while the Kingdom of God is something different.
Assessment: The Gospel parallels strongly indicate that the phrases substantially overlap. Both concern God's reign.
Assessment: The Gospel parallels strongly indicate that the phrases substantially overlap. Both concern God's reign.