A much-overlooked aspect of the Gospel of Matthew is the theme of heaven and earth. Rather than being a reverential circumlocution for God, ‘heaven’ in Matthew is part of a highly developed discourse of heaven and earth language. Matthew’s idiolectic way of using heaven language consists of four aspects: 1) a distinction in meaning between singular and plural forms of ouranos; 2) frequent use of the heaven and earth word pair; 3) regular reference to the Father in heaven; and 4) the recurrent use of the Matthean expression, kingdom of heaven. This book examines the historical precedents for each of these aspects and shows in Matthew how they serve one overriding theological purpose: to highlight the tension that currently exists between heaven and earth or God and humanity, while looking forward to its eschatological resolution.

We live in a noisy world full of different voices shouting at us, vying for our undivided attention, creating confusion and frustration. In the midst of all the noise, it is possible to tune in and hear our Father whisper, 'Come to me.' He deserves our undivided attention. His voice brings life, order, purpose, and peace.May these whispers encourage your heart and bring you joy. The Father wants to speak to you and encourage your heart. He wants to be your glory and the lifter of your head.After each whisper, you will find Declaration and a prayer. Proverbs 18:20-21 reminds us that 'Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.' The words we speak are important. They have the power to release life or death to our own lives and the situations we face. Jesus said His words were Spirit and life. What better example to follow than Jesus Himself. Making declarations, a habit I cherish, has completely transformed my mind, the way I view myself, others, and life. Declaring truth is powerful. It is my hope that the declaration after each whisper will inspire you and act as a springboard to take God's beautiful, Holy Spirit inspired words and turn them into your own declaration. You will soon notice significant changes in you and as a result you will begin to effect change around you.

Two rival analogies compete for our attention: the law of the jungle, and the sacred canopy. As for the former, life consists of the survival of the fittest. As for the latter, the divine mandates serve as a framework for social ethics. This is in keeping with the conviction that we live in God's world, by his grace, and for his glory. The first major segment consists of a paper trail, where the topic is explored in context of biblical narrative. The second discusses the four traditional mandates, as pertains to labor, family, government, and church. The third touches on the endowments, with reference to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. All things considered, the text is calculated to contribute to a Christian world and life view. In greater detail, the mandates serve in a dual capacity. Obviously, to establish the credentials for select social institutions, but also by insisting persons to comply with legitimate social obligations. Meant to superintend God's creation, humans continue to fall short of their appointed task. Along with the diminishing of God's glory. Calling for a commitment to the divine mandates, and their extended implications.

Message of Matthew

This volume contains two closely related studies: Echoes of the Shema and Our Father’s Footprints. The term Shema is derived from the initial word to hear in the Old Testament: “Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deut. 6:4). Hence, God is deserving of ardent adoration and unqualified commitment. Morris A. Inch discusses God as Spirit, Light, and Love and also touches on divine holiness, grace, and compassion. The second study picks up with Jesus’ allusion to God as our Father (Matt. 6:9). While this reference is primarily related to his authority, Jesus pointedly ties in his benevolent character. In this regard, he exclaims: “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt. 7:11). This quotation invites us to reflect on such associated themes as God’s faithfulness, generosity, resolve, forgiveness, and creativity. Echoes of the Shema and Our Father’s Footprints will be a useful text for those interested in exploring the inviting realm of biblical theology.