Matthew 18. Following his transfiguration in Matthew 17, Jesus began teaching his disciples about his kingdom. He painted a picture for them of what the kingdom would look like and how it should function and be known. Keep this in mind as we read through a series of seemingly unrelated topics – each is a snippet of how the kingdom of God works.

“Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” asked the disciples (18:1). Like diligent schoolkids, they want to know what they need to do to get an A+ from their master. What do they need to do to ensure they get a “good position” in the future kingdom? Jesus could have brushed this off as an exceedingly rude question, but in answering it he reveals more kingdom dynamics. Calling a child over to stand in the middle of their circle, Jesus explains that “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (18:4) The child represents humility and dependance, key values in the kingdom of heaven.

“Woe to the world for temptations to sin!” (18:7). In the kingdom of heaven, sin is a very serious concern. In this new kingdom, community is very important, and Christians are to consider how their actions impact other people. Do not be the reason another believer is led to sin! (18:5-6) Sin is to be resisted and to be treated as something a believer does not associate with (18:7-9).

The shepherd “leaves the ninety-nine on the mountains and goes in search of the one sheep that went astray…” (18:10-14). The heart of King Jesus is revealed in this parable of the lost sheep. Jesus desires that no one should perish and searches for those who have gone astray. There is a new song on Christian radio “Jesus loves you, black sheep” that captures this dynamic, all the people are valuable to Jesus and the kingdom of heaven.

“If a brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone” (18:15). The kingdom of heaven is a place where sin is confronted and not ignored. However, it is brought to light in a private, gentle manner designed to be corrective and restorative. Jesus does not tolerate wrongdoing; he always desires repentance and a course correction from those who have strayed.

“How often must I forgive the brother who has sinned against me?” (18:21) In the kingdom of heaven, forgiveness is not simply generous, it is infinite. Jesus tells the parable of the unforgiving servant (18:23-35) and it is good for us to realize that we are all the unforgiving servant! We have been – and will be – forgiven far more infinitely than we will ever be willing to forgive others. Jesus is lavish in his offer of forgiveness to all people, and those who belong to the kingdom of heaven are to behave likewise.

Jesus’ kingdom is a place where the humble are praised, the servant’s heart is valued, our own sins are treated harshly, the sins of others are forgiven, and wanderers are treated gently. No wonder the kingdom of heaven is sometimes called the upside-down kingdom!