The Kingdom Of Heaven
Review – January 2013 – Grace & Truth Magazine
The Kingdom Of Heaven
By Samuel Ridout (1855-1930)
Publisher: Believers Bookshelf, Inc.
Format: Paperback, 41 pages, $5.95
Available from: Believers Bookshelf USA, P.O. Box 261, Sunbury, PA 17801
www.bbusa.org
The edited 2012 edition of this classic book uses the New King James Version and concentrates on the seven parables of the Kingdom found in Matthew 13. But what is the Kingdom? Those with some background in the Bible might speak of the Millennium, the Lord's future 1000 year reign. That wonderful time is the future aspect of the Kingdom when we of the Church live and reign with Christ for 1000 years (Rev. 20:4,6).
But what about before then? King Nebuchadnezzar – the world's most supreme monarch – was told that "heaven rules." Paul spoke of the Lord as "The King." Yet the Lord is never called the King of the Church! Why? Because we who are true Christians are part of the Church and thus are in a higher relationship than subjects of a Sovereign! We are seen as sons of God and as our Lord's Bride! He is the Head of His body, the Church! This difference between the kingdom today and the Church is carefully explained by this highly respected teacher of the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Matthew 13 gives quite a history of the Kingdom in mystery (previously unknown) form. It applies today and goes on into the future. Mr. Ridout gives a full accounting of this wonderful chapter. You will see it speaks of professed Christianity compared to the reality of the Church. This key unlocks many of the "uncertain" verses of Scripture. It is something to enjoy!
The last few pages of the book are by George Davison who briefly explains the many expressions of the Kingdom found in Scripture.