Kingdom Alive Show: Recent Episodes
Charles Cooper
Kingdom Alive promotes the Gospel of God, which concerns the coming of the Sovereign Administration of God to earth - good news for the RIGHTEOUS, but bad news for all of those NOT READY! Please let me help you get ready.
The Historical ContextFor centuries, Christian theology blurred the lines between salvation and reward. The Reformation recovered salvation by grace through faith—but in doing so, the church often lost sight of the doctrine of rewards. Every parable, every miracle, and even the story of the rich young ruler came to be interpreted as salvific rather than sanctifying.
The Two Kingdoms ExplainedThe Kingdom of Heaven – A place, a realm where good and evil coexist until the final judgment.
- Used exclusively by Matthew (22 times).
- Includes parables about wheat and tares, good and bad fish, and faithful vs. unfaithful servants.
- It represents the mixed condition of the world—believers and unbelievers side by side until separation.
The Kingdom of God – A rule, a divine government of reward and authority.
- A subset of the Kingdom of Heaven.
- It represents rulership, participation, and authority in Christ’s coming kingdom.
- The Kingdom of Heaven builds toward the Kingdom of God.
Six Defining Traits of the Kingdom of GodIt must be sought. (Matthew 6:33)
– You must actively pursue it; it is not given automatically.
It can be lost. (Matthew 21:43)
– Jesus told the Pharisees it would be taken away and given to others producing fruit.
You must be fit for it. (Luke 9:62)
– No one who looks back after committing is fit to rule.
You can be cast out of it. (Luke 13:28)
– Even sons of the kingdom can be excluded due to unfaithfulness.
You must be born from above. (John 3:5)
– Salvation is the prerequisite for reward; one grants entrance, the other determines participation.
You must suffer to enter it. (Acts 14:22)
– Through many tribulations we enter the Kingdom of God; suffering refines worthiness.
Flesh and Blood Cannot InheritPaul declares in 1 Corinthians 15:50 that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God.”
The Kingdom of God belongs to resurrected, glorified believers who have proven faithful in this life. It is not merely a destination—it’s a calling to rulership. Only those transformed by resurrection power will be qualified to reign with Christ.
Working for the KingdomIn Colossians 4:11, Paul describes his fellow laborers as “working for the Kingdom of God.”
This isn’t about earning salvation—it’s about earning the right to serve and rule in Christ’s government. Every prayer, gift, and act of service is part of that eternal resume. Dr. Cooper illustrates this with a vivid story about bureaucratic delay in Moscow—reminding us that, unlike earthly systems, God’s Kingdom will run under the righteous authority of qualified, faithful rulers.
Central Lesson The Kingdom of Heaven is the realm. * The Kingdom of God* is the rule. * Salvation grants you entrance, but faithfulness earns you participation. * Every day is an opportunity to work toward rulership with Christ—to “sit on a golden throne” beside the King.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – Living for eternal opportunity, not survival
00:26 – Introducing the two kingdoms
01:39 – Why Jesus used both phrases in Matthew 19
03:16 – From Luther to today: how theology blurred rewards and salvation
07:22 – Why most Christians misinterpret the rich young ruler
08:50 – The Kingdom of Heaven as a place
11:23 – The Kingdom of God as authority and rule
13:20 – The Kingdom of God as reward for faithfulness
14:39 – Six defining traits of the Kingdom of God
22:49 – Being born from above and the role of suffering
26:41 – Flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God
31:08 – Working for the Kingdom of God
35:16 – The authority structure of Christ’s coming Kingdom
36:11 – Living every day as an opportunity for eternal rulership
38:11 – Buc-ee’s and the misplaced zeal of earthly pursuits
40:00 – Closing prayer and reflection
Scripture ReferencesMatthew 6:9–10; 6:33; 13; 19:23–24; 21:43
Luke 9:62; 13:28
John 3:5
Acts 14:22
1 Corinthians 15:50
Colossians 4:11
Revelation 2–3, 20
Episode Notes RecapWeek 9 – The Kingdom of God vs. The Kingdom of Heaven
- Clarifies the rule (Kingdom of God) vs. the realm (Kingdom of Heaven).
- Identifies six defining traits of Kingdom inheritance.
- Shows that salvation opens the door, but faithfulness determines rulership.
- Explains why flesh and blood cannot inherit eternal rule.
- Illustrates the eternal significance of daily obedience.
- Closes with a challenge: live for the throne, not just the ticket in.
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Dr. Charles Cooper contrasts reward and salvation, teaching that salvation is received by faith, while reward is earned through faithfulness. He shows that Jesus’ call to the rich young ruler was not a demand for moral perfection but a divine test of allegiance—an invitation to trade temporary wealth for eternal rulership.
Key ThemesThe Main Thing: “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33) — the ultimate goal of Christian living.
Reward vs. Salvation: Salvation is grace-based; reward is merit-based. One determines entrance; the other determines inheritance.
Context Determines Meaning: The Greek word sozo (“to save”) doesn’t always mean “to be saved from sin.” Context reveals whether it means rescue, deliverance, or physical salvation.
The Bema Seat Judgment: Every believer’s works will be tested by fire. Gold, silver, and precious stones represent divine works that endure; wood, hay, and straw symbolize human efforts that burn away.
Loss and Regret: Failure to live faithfully results in loss of reward, demotion, and exclusion from rulership—marked by “weeping and gnashing of teeth,” a metaphor for profound regret.
Defining “Reward-ific”Dr. Cooper coins the term reward-ific to describe actions that produce or lead to reward. Like horrific (causing horror) or prolific (producing much), reward-ific describes a life that produces reward through faithful obedience. These are the believers who labor with divine energy, not human effort, building with “gold, silver, and precious stones” that will endure the test of fire.
How Rewards Are GrantedRewards are determined by God the Father, who assigns authority, rulership, and honor in the coming Kingdom based on faithfulness to His standards:
Commendation: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Exaltation: “I will make you ruler over many.”
Honor: “Enter into the joy of your Master.”
Rewards are the public recognition of loyalty and obedience, not symbolic sentiment.
Consequences of UnfaithfulnessThose who waste their stewardship will experience:
Recrimination: Public exposure of wasted opportunity.
Demotion: Loss of privilege and authority.
Restriction: Exclusion from rulership (“the darkness outside the lighted place”).
Profound Regret: Weeping and wailing over eternal loss.
Central LessonThe story of the rich young ruler is not about how to enter heaven, but how to inherit the Kingdom.
Salvation is a free gift; reward is an earned inheritance.
The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing—pursue the Kingdom of God with maximum effort.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – Keeping the main thing the main thing
00:21 – Salvation vs. rewards: two distinct doctrines
01:11 – The Father determines reward and authority in the Kingdom
02:18 – Eternal rewards as lasting evidence of faithful allegiance
03:17 – Misinterpreting “saved”: the danger of illegitimate totality transfer
07:02 – “Save” in different contexts (Matthew 14, John 12, Luke 8)
10:50 – Context determines meaning of salvation
11:58 – Why the rich young ruler’s question wasn’t about salvation
14:25 – “Reward-ific” obedience: earning eternal reward
17:17 – Building on Christ with gold, silver, and precious stones
19:19 – Judgment by fire at the Bema Seat
21:32 – Commendation, exaltation, and honor
23:46 – The tragedy of suffering loss
25:39 – Rewards require maximum effort
27:28 – Seek first the Kingdom of God
28:59 – Modern Christianity’s misplaced focus on salvation alone
31:18 – The outer darkness: restriction and regret
33:30 – Producing works of eternal value
Scripture ReferencesMatthew 6:33
Matthew 19:23–29
Matthew 25:14–30
1 Corinthians 3:10–15
1 Corinthians 9:24–27
Luke 8:50
John 12:27
Matthew 14:30
Revelation 2–3, 20
2 Timothy 4:8
1 Peter 5:4
Episode Notes RecapWeek 8 – Does God Hate the Rich? Series
Exposes the common error of confusing salvation and reward.
Defines reward-ific living as producing eternal gain.
Explains that reward is earned through divine energy and faithful obedience.
Warns that loss of reward brings regret, not mere disappointment.
Urges believers to “seek first the Kingdom” as life’s central aim.
Prepares for next week’s topic: The Difference Between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven.
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Dr. Charles Cooper presents Jesus’ “investment seminar” to the rich young ruler, teaching that heaven’s treasure is eternal compensation for earthly obedience. Salvation is by grace alone, but rewards must be earned through faithfulness. Cooper dismantles common misconceptions about treasure in heaven, emphasizing that Jesus was not describing mansions, perks, or a celestial economy—but divine honor, rulership, and joy in the coming Kingdom.
Defining Treasure in HeavenTreasure in Heaven = Reward and Status. It refers to honor and position granted by God in Christ’s Kingdom—not salvation but reward for loyalty.
Treasure is Singular. Jesus promised the treasure in heaven, meaning the comprehensive blessing of Kingdom participation.
Treasure Is Earned, Not Credited. Salvation imputes righteousness; reward recognizes righteousness lived out.
How Treasure Is ObtainedTreasure is secured through:
- Sacrifice — giving up what is temporal for what is eternal (Matt 19:29).
- Service — faithfully investing the talents God provides (Matt 25:21-23).
- Suffering — enduring for Christ’s sake brings public honor from God (Matt 5:11-12).
- Stewardship — using material wealth for Kingdom purposes (Luke 19:17).
These are not symbolic but measurable acts of faithfulness that God rewards with tangible, eternal outcomes.
What Treasure in Heaven IncludesReigning with Christ: Throne participation and authority (Rev 2–3, 20).
Public Honor: Divine recognition and glory before all creation.
Greater Joy & Responsibility: Sharing in “the joy of your Master.”
Heavenly Inheritance: An imperishable, unfading portion reserved in heaven (1 Pet 1:4).
Literal Crowns: Rewards such as the crowns of life, righteousness, and victory (1 Cor 9:24-27; 2 Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4).
Dr. Cooper emphasizes that the absence of reward will also be visible, marking those who wasted their stewardship.
Key ContrastThe rich young ruler wanted kingdom glory without sacrifice. Jesus invited him to trade temporary wealth for eternal rulership, but he walked away sad. His story reminds believers that the price of faithfulness is temporary, while the reward is eternal.
Central LessonTreasure in heaven is eternal compensation for earthly obedience.
It represents God’s approval, measured in rulership, honor, joy, and intimacy with Christ. No price is too great to pay for the lasting reward of loyalty to Jesus. Those who invest generously, serve faithfully, and suffer willingly will experience the fullness of Kingdom life—not just presence in the Kingdom, but participation in its reign.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – The neglected but thrilling doctrine of rewards
00:31 – What is “treasure in heaven”? (Matt 19:21)
01:33 – Treasure defined: reward and status in God’s Kingdom
03:05 – Not mansions or perks—true reward is honor and rulership
04:22 – Difference between salvation and reward
05:02 – Treasure as Kingdom blessing for faithful disciples
06:09 – Participation in Christ’s future reign
07:22 – Discipleship and generosity as eternal investment
09:28 – Rewards tied to sacrifice, service, suffering, stewardship
13:41 – Not all believers inherit the same glory
15:30 – The rich young ruler’s fatal miscalculation
17:33 – Rewards defined: reigning, glory, honor, intimacy
20:09 – The joy that motivated Christ and will reward believers
22:56 – Heavenly inheritance and eternal compensation
25:07 – The three crowns: life, righteousness, victory
27:05 – Securing treasure through generosity, sacrifice, service
28:48 – The cost of eternal glory and the danger of loss
31:18 – Faithfulness determines Kingdom participation
33:20 – How treasure can be lost
Scripture ReferencesMatthew 6:19-21
Matthew 19:21, 29
Luke 19:17
Luke 22:33
1 Timothy 6:18-19
Matthew 25:14-30
Matthew 5:11-12
Revelation 2-3, 20
1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 9:24-27
2 Corinthians 2:9-10
1 Peter 1:4; 5:4
Hebrews 12:2
Episode Notes RecapWeek 7 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
- Defines treasure in heaven as reward and rulership, not salvation.
- Clarifies Jesus’ “investment seminar” for eternal dividends.
- Connects treasure to sacrifice, service, suffering, and stewardship.
- Explains that rewards reflect faithfulness, not favoritism.
- Warns that believers can lose treasure through unfaithfulness.
- Prepares for next week’s topic: How Treasure Can Be Lost.
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Dr. Charles Cooper draws a powerful parallel between the rich young ruler’s emotional distress and Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. Both men faced a decisive moment: whether to obey God’s will despite the cost. One submitted; the other walked away with profound regret.
From that contrast, Dr. Cooper identifies five values of the rich—values that still challenge believers today.
1. Possession Over Submission
The ruler’s wealth represented both security and identity. His possessions became proof of God’s favor and the means to control his destiny. When Jesus asked him to sell everything, it was a test of trust—God’s provision or his portfolio?
True faith submits ownership to the Lord rather than clinging to control.
2. Status Over Sacrifice
In first-century Judaism, wealth carried social honor and the assumption of righteousness. Giving it up to follow a poor, itinerant rabbi would have destroyed his reputation. His loyalty to public recognition outweighed humility and obedience.
Dr. Cooper reminds listeners that Kingdom greatness always comes through surrender, not status.
3. Law-Keeping Over Heart Trust
The ruler believed he had kept the law from his youth, yet his obedience was transactional—not relational. He performed religious duties without loving the God who gave them.
Jesus exposed this void, showing that external obedience without internal devotion is empty. The rich young ruler valued morality more than intimacy with his Creator.
4. Temporal Reward Over Eternal Treasure
When Jesus promised, “You will have treasure in heaven,” the man couldn’t imagine value beyond what he could see. His heart was anchored to the present, not the Kingdom to come.
Faith requires imagination—the ability to believe that eternal reward outweighs temporary gain.
5. Self-Preservation Over Self-Denial
Following Jesus always involves the cross. The ruler wanted assurance of eternal life without the cost of discipleship. He desired a Messiah who confirmed his comfort, not one who called for crucified loyalty.
Jesus wasn’t trying to impoverish him—He was inviting him to transfer his treasure. The tragedy was not wealth but misplaced trust.
Central Lesson:The rich young ruler’s disappointment reveals that values, not riches, determine faithfulness.
He knew the truth, desired the Kingdom, but refused the cost. His question—“What must I do to inherit eternal life?”—came from knowledge without submission.
He left sorrowful because he valued control, comfort, and credit more than Christ.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – The “operating system” behind our choices
00:27 – Introduction to the Doctrine of Rewards and the rich young ruler
01:00 – The ruler’s question and Jesus’ reply (Luke 18:18-23)
03:00 – Emotional distress compared to Jesus in Gethsemane
05:08 – Sorrow as the result of disobedience
07:00 – The parable of the talents and consequences for unfaithfulness
09:22 – Faithfulness vs. laziness in Kingdom service
12:00 – Weeping and gnashing of teeth as regret—not condemnation
14:15 – Why God “hates the rich” — worship of creation over Creator
16:15 – Value #1: Possession over submission
17:27 – Value #2: Status over sacrifice
19:03 – Value #3: Law-keeping over heart trust
21:18 – Value #4: Temporal reward over eternal treasure
23:40 – Value #5: Self-preservation over self-denial
25:27 – Comfort vs. faith in Christ
27:00 – The invitation to transfer treasure
27:28 – Profound regret and missed opportunity
31:52 – The ruler’s choice and our own: what we value determines reward
Scripture ReferencesLuke 18:18-23
Matthew 19:16-22
Mark 10:17-27
Matthew 25:14-30
Matthew 26:37-38
1 Corinthians 3:11-15
1 Corinthians 2:9-10
Episode Notes RecapWeek 6 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
- Contrasts the obedience of Jesus and the disobedience of the rich young ruler.
- Shows that emotional distress often accompanies the choice to obey or resist God.
- Defines five heart values that offend God and still ensnare believers today.
- Clarifies that regret at the Bema Seat is real but avoidable through faithful obedience.
- Calls believers to submit possessions, status, and comfort to Christ and live for eternal reward.
- Prepares for Week 7: Discipleship and the Transfer of Treasure.
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Dr. Cooper begins by contrasting sentimental ideas of heaven with the biblical reality of evaluation and reward. He explains that though our sins are forgiven, our lives will still be assessed for faithfulness before the Bema Seat of Christ.
He identifies six cultural and theological reasons the doctrine of rewards has fallen out of focus in the church—and why recovering it is essential to genuine discipleship.
The Six Reasons the Church Overlooks Heavenly Rewards1. Cultural Egalitarianism
Western thought prizes equality of outcomes—“everyone gets a trophy.” This mindset has crept into theology, producing the belief that everyone in heaven will be equal. Yet Scripture teaches otherwise: “Each will receive his own reward according to his labor” (1 Cor. 3:8). God’s love is equal, but His commendations are not.
2. Overreaction to Works-Based Salvation
In trying to protect grace, the church has blurred the line between salvation by faith and rewards for service. Paul clearly distinguishes between the foundation of salvation (Christ) and the building of works upon it (1 Cor. 3:11–15). Salvation is free—rewards are earned.
3. Neglect of Eschatological Teaching
Many pastors avoid teaching about the judgment seat of Christ. Sermons focus on emotional well-being and personal growth rather than eternal accountability. As a result, believers lose the long view, living for comfort now instead of reward later.
4. Sentimental Views of Heaven
Heaven is often imagined as endless rest and leisure. But Scripture describes it as a place of responsibility, rulership, and reward. Jesus said, “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to each as his work is”(Rev. 22:12).
5. Biblical Illiteracy
A generation unfamiliar with Scripture misses the motivation for faithfulness found in passages about crowns, commendations, and inheritance. Paul, Peter, and John all lived with urgency because they feared losing reward—not salvation.
6. Spiritual Apathy and Instant Gratification
Modern discipleship often seeks blessing now instead of treasure later. Churches fill with those who want prosperity without perseverance. Yet Jesus warned, “They have their reward.” Deferred gratification—living for eternal commendation—is no longer fashionable, but it is still biblical.
Why There Will Be Tears in Heaven
Dr. Cooper addresses a common objection: If Jesus wipes away every tear, how can there be weeping in heaven?
He explains that the promise of “no more tears” in Isaiah 25 and Revelation 21 refers to the end of dying, not the end of emotion. The tears of regret, loss, or missed opportunity at Christ’s judgment seat are a real possibility.
Divine Justice and the Bema Seat
Heavenly rewards are a form of divine justice—God’s public acknowledgment of faithfulness in the age to come. Every believer will stand before Christ not to be condemned, but to have their life’s work revealed by fire.
Those who lived faithfully will receive commendation, crowns, and authority; others will suffer loss, though still saved (1 Cor. 3:15).
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – The danger of shallow Christianity: “Just give, serve, and behave”
00:20 – Why reward, not salvation alone, is a big deal
00:38 – Introduction: Why there will be tears in heaven
01:00 – God’s conditions for answered prayer: love, faithfulness, worship
02:40 – Rediscovering true biblical worship
05:20 – God gives freely to those who love and serve Him
05:55 – Heaven vs. heavenly rewards — why most believers confuse them
06:34 – Six reasons the church has lost sight of rewards
07:00 – #1: Cultural egalitarianism and equality of outcomes
09:37 – #2: Overcompensation for works-based salvation
12:17 – #3: Neglect of eschatological teaching and eternal focus
14:18 – Reward is preparation for judgment, not optional theology
15:07 – #4: Sentimental views of heaven — endless rest vs. real responsibility
17:05 – #5: Biblical illiteracy and missing the motivation for faithfulness
20:29 – #6: Spiritual apathy and the loss of deferred gratification
22:22 – Instant gratification Christianity — “they have their reward”
23:36 – Rewards as divine justice — God’s public vindication of faithfulness
25:17 – Misunderstandings about forgiveness and evaluation
26:07 – Do our works still have merit after salvation?
27:20 – Why rewards don’t contradict grace but confirm it
27:57 – Theological dissonance: no more tears vs. weeping in heaven
30:02 – Understanding “weeping and gnashing of teeth” in Matthew 25
31:14 – Reconciling Revelation 21:4 and Isaiah 25:8 — the real meaning of “no more tears”
34:56 – Tears end with death, not judgment
35:50 – Final insight: There will be no more dying—but not necessarily no more tears
Scripture References1 Corinthians 3:8–15
Matthew 10:41
2 Corinthians 5:10
Revelation 22:12
Revelation 21:4
Isaiah 25:8
Matthew 25:24–30
Daniel 12:3
Episode Notes RecapWeek 5 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
- Explains why there will be tears in heaven and what those tears mean.
- Outlines six reasons the church overlooks the doctrine of heavenly rewards.
- Defines rewards as divine justice—God’s public vindication of faithfulness.
- Clarifies the difference between forgiveness of sin and evaluation of works.
- Calls believers to reject instant gratification and live for eternal commendation.
- Sets up Week 6: Five Values of the Rich That Offend God.
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In this message, Dr. Cooper shifts from the question of eternal life to its cost. Using the lawyer’s test in Luke 10:25–37, he shows that “to inherit eternal life” was ancient covenant reward language—it referred to sharing in the blessings and rule of God’s coming Kingdom.
Key Themes & InsightsA Question of Reward, Not Salvation
The lawyer’s challenge wasn’t ignorance; it was a theological test. He already knew justification came by faith (as Abraham did). His question concerned reward—how to ensure participation in the Kingdom.
Jesus’ Answer: Love & Obedience
Jesus quotes the law: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and your neighbor as yourself.” This isn’t a path to salvation but the measure of faithfulness that determines Kingdom participation.
The Good Samaritan as Kingdom Example
True righteousness expresses itself through compassion and mercy. Helping the hurting demonstrates covenant faithfulness—living as one fit to rule under God’s government.
The Rich and the Costly Entrance
Jesus’ warning about the camel and the needle’s eye reveals that wealth easily divides loyalty. To enter the Kingdom, one must abandon self-reliance and depend entirely on God.
The Kingdom of God Defined
It is not a place (that’s the Kingdom of Heaven).
It is a rule—God’s reign on earth through His Son.
It is power, not talk (1 Cor 4:20).
It is the perfection of divine government and justice.
The Mystery Revealed
Paul called this the mystery of God—the power of God displayed through man. The greatness of the coming rule is “unimaginable” to human minds, yet revealed by the Spirit (1 Cor 2:9–10).
Rewards, Not Participation Trophies
The future reign of believers will not be automatic. Each Christian’s rank and role in the Kingdom depends entirely on faithfulness now. These are not symbolic prizes—they are eternal responsibilities.
Modern Analogy: Christ’s Campaign Slogan
Just as earthly rulers promise “change” or “greatness,” Christ’s Kingdom comes with its own unshakable platform—perfect justice, perfect peace, and perfect rule. The question is whether our lives today align with that campaign.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – To inherit eternal life: asking about entering God’s Kingdom
00:13 – Why is entering the Kingdom of God so expensive?
00:22 – Introduction: What is the Kingdom of God? (Doctrine of Rewards continued)
01:00 – The lawyer’s question: testing Jesus’ view of inheritance and law
02:00 – What “lawyer” meant in the New Testament context
03:00 – The question isn’t ignorance—it’s a theological challenge
04:00 – “Inherit eternal life” means to participate in the coming Kingdom
05:00 – Jesus’ answer: “Love God… and your neighbor as yourself”
06:00 – Commandments, love, and living fully in God’s Kingdom
07:00 – The Parable of the Good Samaritan: mercy as the mark of Kingdom life
08:30 – Serving those in need as evidence of true righteousness
09:30 – Inheritance as covenant reward language
10:00 – Why entering the Kingdom is difficult for the rich
11:00 – The cost: total dependence on God
12:00 – Defining the Kingdom of God vs. Kingdom of Heaven
13:00 – Participation in Christ’s future rule—what “enter” truly means
14:00 – 1 Corinthians 2:9–10 — the unimaginable greatness of the coming Kingdom
15:00 – “Unimaginable” ≠ “unknowable” — God has revealed it by His Spirit
16:00 – The mystery of God revealed through the Spirit
17:00 – The Kingdom of God as power, not talk
18:00 – The mystery defined: God’s power displayed through man
19:00 – The Kingdom is not a place but a rule — God’s government on earth
20:00 – The perfection of divine rule: “rulers of the ruled”
21:00 – How believers today determine their rank in the coming Kingdom
22:00 – Rewards are earned through faithfulness, not participation
23:00 – Why the rich young ruler’s question was profound not trivial
24:00 – Presidential campaigns vs. Christ’s eternal rule
25:00 – The Kingdom of God as the ultimate government of righteousness
26:00 – If you were Christ’s campaign manager—what would His slogan be?
27:00 – The cost and promise of ruling with Christ in His Kingdom
27:17 – Preview of next episode: “Six Reasons Your Church Probably Doesn’t Teach the Doctrine of Rewards”
Scripture References:Luke 10:25–37
Matthew 19:16–24
Mark 10:17–31
1 Corinthians 2:9–10
1 Corinthians 4:20
Deuteronomy 4:21
Psalm 37:9–34
Episode Notes Recap:Week 4 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
Clarifies that the lawyer’s question was about Kingdom participation, not salvation.
Defines “inherit eternal life” as covenant reward language.
Distinguishes the Kingdom of God (rule) from the Kingdom of Heaven (place).
Reveals the mystery of God—His power displayed through faithful believers.
Emphasizes that faithfulness now determines rulership later.
Sets up Week 5: Six Reasons the Church Overlooks the Doctrine of Rewards.
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In this episode, Dr. Cooper reframes the rich young ruler’s question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”—showing it was never about entering heaven but about living a kingdom-worthy life that God rewards.
He begins by defining eternal life as a measure of quality, not duration. Every soul—believer or unbeliever—will live forever, but only those who live righteously will experience eternal reward. Drawing from the Old Testament and Jewish covenantal thinking, Cooper explains that “to inherit eternal life” was reward language rooted in God’s promises to His people.
Key themes include:
Covenant Reward Language:
“Inheritance” in the Jewish mind referred to receiving what God promised through His covenant—something based on faithfulness, not birthright alone.
Deuteronomy 4 & Psalm 37:
Israel’s inheritance of the land pictured God’s future reward for those who lived justly and obeyed Him.
Daniel 12:2–3:
The resurrection will reveal differences in the quality of eternal life—some will “shine like stars,” representing faithfulness and moral righteousness.
Quality vs. Quantity:
Eternal life isn’t merely existing forever but living in a way that reflects God’s holiness and earns divine approval.
Two Types of Righteousness:
Positional Righteousness: Given by faith (like Abraham).
Moral Righteousness: Demonstrated through obedience and holiness in daily life.
The rich young ruler sought moral righteousness—a life that would please God in the coming Kingdom.
The Doctrine of Rewards:
Every believer will stand before Christ’s Bema Seat to have their life evaluated—not for salvation, but for reward or loss. Cooper calls it the pass/fail test of the Christian life.
Through this lens, Jesus’ response to the rich young ruler was not about earning salvation but about revealing what true kingdom loyalty costs—wholehearted devotion and moral faithfulness.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – The issue isn’t living forever—it’s the quality of that eternal life
00:27 – Introduction: The rich young ruler’s question reframed
01:16 – Defining the Doctrine of Rewards
02:00 – Why misunderstanding this doctrine distorts Jesus’ message
04:00 – Matthew, Mark, and Luke: three perspectives on the same encounter
05:00 – “Inheriting eternal life” as covenant reward language
07:00 – What inheritance meant in Jewish covenant theology
09:30 – Deuteronomy 4 & Psalm 37 – inheritance of the land as a promise
13:00 – Daniel 12: Resurrection as fulfillment of God’s covenant
15:00 – Faithful vs. unfaithful believers—who “shines” in eternity
20:00 – Resurrection and reward distinctions
22:00 – Every person lives forever—but not all experience the same quality of life
27:00 – Two kinds of righteousness: positional vs. moral
30:00 – The Bema Seat: “How do I pass the test?”
32:00 – Misunderstandings about judgment and rewards
35:00 – The rich young ruler’s real concern—quality of eternal life
36:00 – Preview of next episode: Jesus’ response to the ruler’s question
Scripture References:Matthew 19:16–22
Mark 10:17–31
Luke 10:25–28
Deuteronomy 4:21
Psalm 37:9–34
Daniel 12:2–3
Romans 9:13
Revelation 20:11–15
Episode Notes Recap:Week 3 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
Clarifies that “eternal life” = quality of life, not duration.
Defines inheritance as reward within the covenant.
Explains moral vs. positional righteousness.
Warns that careless living forfeits reward.
Prepares for Week 4: Jesus’ response to the rich young ruler’s question.
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In this second episode, Dr. Cooper reframes the question “Does God hate?” by showing that divine hatred reflects rejection of what is false rather than emotional anger. Using the prophet Amos as a starting point, he illustrates how God condemned Israel’s feasts, offerings, and songs because they lacked justice and compassion. The problem wasn’t the rituals themselves—it was the absence of kingdom-minded living, where love for God produces mercy, fairness, and obedience.
From there, Cooper connects this truth to Jesus’ words in Matthew 6: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth.” The issue isn’t the acquisition of wealth but the devotion of the heart. A “healthy eye” represents singleness of purpose—a believer whose loyalty is wholly directed toward God’s Kingdom rather than earthly reward.
Through the parable of the laborers (Matthew 20), Dr. Cooper exposes how envy and comparison reveal divided motives. The “evil eye,” he explains, isn’t greed but resentment toward God’s generosity. Such attitudes betray a heart not centered on the Kingdom.
Finally, he outlines three things God hates:
Religious behavior without heart devotion – outward worship that lacks inward obedience.
Divorce that violates covenant faithfulness – breaking promises that reflect God’s character.
False doctrine – teachings that twist truth and merge the culture’s values with God’s name.
Each represents a failure of kingdom-minded living, where believers trade faithfulness for convenience. Cooper closes by urging listeners to pursue a life that pleases the King—rooted in love, justice, and truth—so that when we stand before Christ’s judgment seat, our works will stand the test of fire.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – Opening Thought: “Religious behavior without heart devotion—God hates.”
00:27 – Introduction: The doctrine of rewards and God’s selective favor.
02:04 – Romans 9:13: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated” — the meaning of divine choice.
03:25 – The Kingdom-Pleasing Life: Living in a way that earns eternal reward.
05:16 – Amos 5:21–24: When worship becomes offensive to God.
09:23 – Justice and Righteousness: The marks of true kingdom devotion.
10:02 – Religious Behavior vs. Heart Devotion: Why God rejects empty religion.
11:06 – Matthew 6:19–24: Treasures, loyalty, and the undivided heart.
16:58 – The Eye as the Lamp: Seeing life through a kingdom lens.
20:34 – The Laborers in the Vineyard: God’s generosity and the “evil eye.”
27:02 – Doctrine of Rewards: Understanding God’s pay scale for faithfulness.
28:14 – No Man Can Serve Two Masters: The loyalty test of money and devotion.
29:00 – Isaiah 1 & Malachi 2: God hates hypocrisy and unfaithfulness.
31:32 – False Doctrine and Cultural Compromise: The works of the Nicolaitans.
34:55 – Final Appeal: Choose a life that God can reward—a kingdom-minded life.
Scripture ReferencesRomans 9:13 · Amos 5:21–24 · Matthew 6:19–24 · Matthew 20:1–16 · Isaiah 1:12–17 · Malachi 2:16 · Revelation 2:6, 15 · Psalm 91:14–16 · Matthew 22:37–38
Episode Notes Week 2 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series:
Defines “hate” as divine rejection rooted in righteousness.
Explains that wealth and worship are neutral until the heart misuses them.
Emphasizes kingdom-minded living—devotion, obedience, and justice.
Warns that divided loyalty forfeits eternal reward.
Prepares the foundation for Week 3: “What Must I Do to Inherit Eternal Life?”
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In this thought-provoking opening episode of the Does God Hate the Rich? series, Dr. Cooper challenges one of the most ingrained ideas in American Christianity—the link between wealth and divine favor. Drawing from Scripture and cultural history, he asks whether our pursuit of prosperity aligns with—or opposes—the heart of God.
From the story of the rich young ruler to the parables of the rich fool and Lazarus, Dr. Cooper explores why Jesus spoke so sharply about money and why the Synoptic Gospels seem to frame wealth as a barrier rather than a blessing. He also contrasts modern teachings of the “prosperity gospel” with the biblical doctrine of rewards and generosity.
Whether you’re a business leader, a believer, or simply wrestling with the role of money in your life, this episode will deepen your understanding of God’s perspective on wealth, stewardship, and eternal priorities.
Timestamps & Key Topics00:00 – Opening Thought: “With every dollar you gain beyond your daily needs, you move one step closer to God’s hatred.”
00:46 – Introduction: Welcome to Three Crowns Plus — exploring faith applied to everyday life.
01:30 – Setting the Stage: What does it mean to ask, “Does God hate the rich?”
02:00 – The American Dream: How cultural ideals of success shape our theology.
03:30 – Prosperity in the Church: Dave Ramsey, the prosperity gospel, and the myth of divine wealth.
05:10 – Scriptural Foundations: Understanding Romans 9:13 — “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”
07:00 – The Nature of Divine Hate: How “love” and “hate” function in Hebrew and Greek contexts.
13:40 – Jesus and the Rich Young Ruler: Why wealth is portrayed as an obstacle to discipleship.
16:00 – Woes to the Rich: Prophetic judgment and divine displeasure.
19:30 – Wealth as Spiritual Barrier: “It’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle…”
23:00 – The Widow’s Offering: Why two pennies outweighed millions.
25:30 – Theological Summary: God’s active opposition to self-sufficiency.
30:00 – Practical Application: How generosity transforms the purpose of wealth.
32:30 – Closing Reflection: “The problem is not the coming in—it’s the going out.”
Scripture ReferencesRomans 9:6–13 · Luke 6:24 · Luke 12:16–21 · Luke 16:19–31 · Matthew 19:16–24 · Mark 10:17–22 · Luke 1:53 · Matthew 10:37
Episode NotesWeek 1 of the Does God Hate the Rich? series
Explores how Jesus, Paul, and the prophets viewed the rich and the poor
Clarifies the doctrine of rewards and how generosity aligns with Kingdom principles
Prepares the foundation for next week’s episode: “If God Hates—What Are the Things He Hates?”
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Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
The Gospel of God: The Great Separation
Question: Will there be negative consequences for unfaithful disciples?
The Gospel of God:
Is the promise of the final permanent physical manifestation of God on the earth in Sovereign Power.
Judgment vs. Deliverance
Repentance vs. Faith
The failure to recognize the distinction between the GG and the GC results in interpretation errors concerning the eschatological end.
There is going to be a great Separation! At the Eschatological End: Wheat vs. Weeds; Good Tree vs. Bad Tree; Good Seed vs. Bad Seed; Good Fish vs. Bad Fish; and Sheep vs. Goats
Matthew 25:14-30 The Parable of the Talents –
Who do the Servants Represent? Believer vs. Unbeliever Mix
Proofs:
Command to Stay Alert
The Servants are His Own
These are Servants [δοῦλος]
Servants [δοῦλος] are ENTRUSTED
Servants are judged at the Master's return
Servants have identical relationships
Servants received their commission
Unfaithful Servant Lost Reward
Believers Can Suffer Loss
Commendation – Exaltation – Honoration
Criticism – Demotion – Isolation
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
The Gospel of God: The Great Separation
Question: Will there be negative consequences for unfaithful disciples?
The Gospel of God:
Is the promise of the final permanent physical manifestation of God on the earth in Sovereign Power.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ:
Is the promise of spiritual salvation through faith in the atonement sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Judgment vs. Deliverance
Repentance vs. Faith
The failure to recognize the distinction between the GG and the GC results in errors of interpretation at the eschatological end.
At the Eschatological End:
Good Trees vs. Bad Trees
Wheat vs. Chaff
Good Seed vs. Bad Seed
Good Fish vs. Bad Fish
Sheep vs. Goats
Righteous vs. Evil people
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
The Gospel of God: Crown of Thorns and Crown of Gold
Gospel of God: the promise of the final permanent physical manifestation of God on the earth in sovereign power.
Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee...From that time, Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matt 4:12, 17
A baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Luke 3:3
What was John PROMISING?
This verse may seem to be simple, but it is probably the most difficult verse in the entire Gospel of Mark, not only because of some of the difficult terms but because of the unsuspected complication in the syntax.
John had baptized men who confessed their sins so that they might escape judgment.
[I. Howard Marshall, The Gospel of Luke: A Commentary on the Greek Text, New International Greek Testament Commentary (Exeter: Paternoster Press, 1978), 136.]
In short, John’s baptism was a step toward the Promised One’s forgiveness.
Darrell L. Bock, Luke: 1:1–9:50, vol. 1, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 1994), 289.
What Shall We Do?
Give Evidence of Genuine Repentance:
The Crowd – Generosity (clothing and food)
Tax Collectors – Honest in Business (Tax Collecting)
Soldiers – Content with wages (Extortion and Lying)
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
The Gospel of God: Crown of Thorns and Crown of Gold
The Gospel of God: the promise of the eschatological permanent physical manifestation of God on the earth in sovereign power. [Jude 14-15]
Mark 1:14-15 – The Three Pillars of the Gospel of God
- The Time is Fulfilled
- The Kingdom of God has come near
- Repent and believe the gospel
Repentance is God's requirement for both sinners and saints to escape the temporal judgment of God.
In summary, repentance is for believers and unbelievers. It can occur before or after regeneration. It can even aid a person in coming to faith in Christ. However, repentance is not a condition of eternal life.
Luke 3:7ff
He said therefore to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?” And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.”
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
The Gospel of God: Crown of Thorns and Crown of Gold
The Gospel of God: Crown of Thorns and Crown of Gold
εἰσέρχομαι: a--move into; b—happen; c—begin; d--begin to experience
Luke 7:1; Romans 5:12; Luke 9:46; and Luke 22:40
“It is necessary to go through many hardships to participate in the sovereign administration of God.” Acts 14:22 (COOP)
Matthew 25:20-21
The man who had received five talents approached, presented five more talents, and said, ‘Master, you gave me five talents. See, I’ve earned five more talents.’ “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy.’
Sovereignty can be received over a realm, but you cannot receive a realm!
The Parable of the Ten Minas – Luke 19:11ff
As they were listening to this, he went on to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem, and they thought the kingdom of God was going to appear right away. Therefore he said, “A nobleman traveled to a far country to receive for himself the authority to be king and then to return. He called ten of his servants, gave them ten minas, and told them, ‘Engage in business until I come back.’ “But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We don’t want this man to rule over us.’ “At his return, having received the authority to be king, he summoned those servants he had given the money to, so that he could find out how much they had made in business. The first came forward and said, ‘Master, your mina has earned ten more minas.’ “‘Well done, good servant!’ he told him. ‘Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, have authority over ten towns.’ “The second came and said, ‘Master, your mina has made five minas.’ “So he said to him, ‘You will be over five towns.’ “And another came and said, ‘Master, here is your mina. I have kept it safe in a cloth because I was afraid of you since you’re a harsh man: you collect what you didn’t deposit and reap what you didn’t sow.’ “He told him, ‘I will condemn you by what you have said, you evil servant! If you knew I was a harsh man, collecting what I didn’t deposit and reaping what I didn’t sow, why, then, didn’t you put my money in the bank? And when I returned, I would have collected it with interest.’ So he said to those standing there, ‘Take the mina away from him and give it to the one with ten minas.’ “But they said to him, ‘Master, he has ten minas.’ “ ‘I tell you, that to everyone who has, more will be given; and from the one who does not have, even what he does have will be taken away. But bring here these enemies of mine, who did not want me to rule over them and slaughter them in my presence.’”
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
"How to Enter the Sovereign Administration of God"
Multiple Conditionalities to Enter the Kingdom of God:
-
Suffer to Enter it - Acts 14:21-22
-
Lose it - Matthew 21:43
-
Difficult/Rich - Mark 10:23
-
Inherit it - I Corinthians 6:9
-
Worthy to Enter it - 2 Thes 1:5
-
Born of Water/Spirit - John 3:5
-
Must Seek it - Matthew 6:33
To Receive the Righteousness of God – Faith
The Kingdom of God is not Equal to Salvation
One Can: 1. Enter; 2. Receive; 3. See; 4. Cast Out
“It is necessary to go through many hardships to enter the sovereign administration of God.” Acts 14:22b
εἰσελθεῖν εἰς – enter in
A. move into
B. happen
C. begin
D. begin to experience
εἰσέρχομαι: to begin to experience an event or state—‘to begin to experience, to come into an experience, to attain.’
[Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 806–807.]
Joel Marcus, Entering into the Kingly Power of God, JBL 107/4 (1988) 663-675
The plausibility of this interpretation of “entering the basileia” is increased when we observe that “to enter into an action” corresponds not only to modern English idiom but also to ancient Semitic and NT usage.
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
"Understanding the Gospel from God the Father"
Mark 1:14-15 [7.9.23]
The Kingdom of God: Realm vs. Rule
The Sovereign Administration of God
Jude 1:1-5 – the physical manifestation of God
Vv. 14b-15
“Look! The Lord comes with tens of thousands of his holy ones (1) to execute judgment on all and (2) to convict all the ungodly concerning all the ungodly acts that they have done in an ungodly way, and concerning all the harsh things ungodly sinners have said against him.”
Revelation 14:6-7 -- The Eternal Gospel
“Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”
The Permanent Physical Manifestation of God on the Earth
Power over Satan and his Demonic Forces cannot resist Jesus and those who exercise his power and authority. Luke 11:14-20
The Finger of God equals the power of God.
Power over Spiritual forces
Power over natural law
Power to forgive sins
Power to heal diseases
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
"Understanding the Gospel from God the Father"
Mark 1:14-15 [7.2.23]
What Time is It? – The Year of God's Jubilee
Luke 3:3
Luke 24:44-49
What is the Kingdom of God?
Kingdom (Greek: βασιλεία): Realm or Reign?
Kingly Rule – reign, rule, sovereignty, kingly power
Sovereign Administration – join the Biden Administration.
Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be your name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Luke 16:16
The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it.
Βιάζεται:
The verb βιάζεται can be understood as a middle or a passive. The active βιάζω is ‘to constrain, force’; the middle is ‘to overpower by force, press hard; to act with violence’; the passive is ‘to be hard-pressed, overpowered.’
I. Marshall, New International Greek Testament Commentary (Exeter: Paternoster Press, 1978), 629.
Βιάζεται: Everyone is hard-pressed to enter into it. [Everyone is strongly encouraged to seek participation in it.]
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
"What is the Good News of God"
Mark 1:14-15 [6.25.23]
The Good News of God: "The time is fulfilled" (Πεπλήρωται ὁ καιρὸς)
Mark 1:15a (CSB)
ὁ καιρὸς : time; period of time, moment; Opportunity
Horst Robert Balz and Gerhard Schneider, (Grand Rapids, Mich.:Eerdmans, 1990), 232.
Luke 16:14-16
What Time Is It? Luke 4:16-19
Four Peculiarities:
- Chronology
- Deletion and Substitution
- Apocopated Ending
- Quoted LXX
Tae Hun Kim
Luke’s account of Jesus' sermon at a synagogue in his hometown Nazareth on a sabbath has been discussed at length. It has been widely accepted as a programmatic summary of Luke’s entire enterprise. His placement of Luke 4:16-30 at the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry functions for the whole of Luke-Acts and anticipates the mission to the Gentiles.
Disciples Disciple (Reproduce)
"The Gospel of God"
Mark 1:14-15
After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Mark 1:14-15 (CSB)
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Mark 1:1 (CSB)
τοῦ εὐαγγελίου = __________________________.
I am amazed that you are so quickly turning away from him who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another gospel... Galatians 1:6-7a (CSB)
To Stop: 1. Illegitimate Totality Transfer; 2. Contradiction; 3. False Interpretation
....but there are some who are troubling you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. Galatians 1:7b (CSB)
Now I want to make clear for you, brothers and sisters, the gospel I preached to you, which you received, on which you have taken your stand, and by which you are being saved if you hold to the message I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: (1) that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, (2) that he was buried, (3) that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and (4), that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve.
What is the Good News (gospel) of God? Mark 1:14-15; Mathew 4:12-17;
Disciples Disciple
"The Gospel of God"
The Focus of Christ's Pre-Easter
Message and Ministry
Matthew 28:16-20: Make Disciples vs. Make Converts
The Great Commission is not ____________!
John F. MacArthur is incorrect!
Jesus Gave Four Explicit Predictions of Death:
- Only the 12 __________ it.
- God Prevented their ___________ of it.
- Jesus Never Explained _________.
The Gospel of Christ – Pre-Easter Emphasis
The Jews Never Expected the Messiah to Die!
John 12:1, 12, 27-34
Psalm 89:36-37
2 Samuel 7:13
Isaiah 9:7
Luke 1:33
The Twelve Only Understood Post-Easter Sunday
Luke 24:18-21
Acts 1:1-3
Matthew, Mark, and Luke = Synoptic Gospels
The Gospel of Christ
Four Prophetic Predictions
Prediction One:
Matthew 16:21-23, Mark 8:31-38, Luke 9:22-25
Conclusions: 1. Six months before his death.
-
First time the Twelve ____________.
-
Only the Twelve __________________.
Prediction Two:
Matthew 17:22-23, Mark 9:30-32, Luke 9:43b-45
Conclusions: 1. The Twelve were _______________.
-
The Twelve were silenced.
-
God prevented their ______________.
-
Two months before his death.
Third Prediction:
Matthew 20:17-19, Mark 10:32-34, Luke 18:31-34
Conclusions: 1. Two Weeks Before ___________.
- Most Details Given.
Fourth Prediction:
Matthew 26:1-2, Mark 14:1-2
Conclusions: 1. Two Days Before His Death.
- No REASON for WHY!
What's the Difference:
The Gospel of God
Vs
The Gospel of Christ?
Mark 1:1 vs. Mark 1:14-15
The Good News of the Kingdom of God – Luke 4:40-44; 9:1-2
7 Conditions or Traits to Enter the Kingdom of God
A______________________________
B______________________________
C______________________________
D______________________________
E______________________________
F______________________________
G______________________________
What the Kingdom of God is NOT!
The Gospel of Christ – Matthew 16:21-23
From then on, Jesus began to point out to his disciples that he needed to go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders, chief priests, and scribes, be killed, and be raised on the third day. Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, “Oh no, Lord! This will never happen to you!” Jesus turned and told Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me because you’re not thinking about God’s concerns but human concerns.”
From What Time = "From then on" [[Ἀπὸ τότε]]
Proof – Peter's Response:
Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, “Oh no, Lord! This will never happen to you!”
The Gospel of Christ is the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin so that a person can go to heaven when he or she dies. This is the popular way of saying it. Yet, Matthew, Mark, and Luke are far more concerned about the Gospel of God. Listen as I develop the biblical basis for this claim.
Confusion about the relationship between works and salvation comes from a misunderstanding about the Gospel of God and the Gospel of Christ. If one does not understand the difference, he or she will certainly not understand many passages in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and some parts of John. The Gospel of God is the core of the message of Jesus Christ.
Abraham is the biblical portrait of salvation by faith - Genesis 15:6 reports, "and he (Abram) believed the Lord and he (God) counted it to him as righteousness. Is it any wonder that people continued to be confused about how to "get" saved. Believing what the Word of God says is the cure for this problem. We again turn our attention to Paul's commentary on the faith of Abraham.
After 2000 years, the Church remains confused about the relationship between works and salvation. To receive salvation, some believe a person must work to get it. Others believe works are necessary to keep salvation. Still, there are others who believe works are necessary to prove one has salvation. None of these conclusions are correct. Works are directly tied to sanctification, which is a rewards issue and not salvation.
In this session, we continue our study of the Sermon on the Mount, by looking at our Lord's promise to those who live a life that can be characterized as clean-hearted. The clean-hearted people will have a reward worthy of their devoted service - they will see God. How is this possible given that God is invisible? Listen as I explain.
Matthew 5:7 continues our Lord's emphasis on the "ways" of life that ensure God the Father will commend. I call the Beatitudes the Commendables. These are the types of people God the Father will publicly commend at the Bema Seat Judgment. There is nothing more important than to be found faithful before God. This is another lifestyle that God will find pleasing: merciful.
As Jesus continues to discuss those who can count on God's commendation, we look at those who hunger and thirst for righteousness or justice. There are those who have a deep sense longing for God to be respected and honored in his creation as he should be. Men abuse God's grace, love, and mercy and take his mercy for granted. They use his name in vain. Those who hate this behavior will one day be honored by God. Matthew 5:6 contains this promise.
Jesus promises in Matthew 5:5 that God, the Father will reward all of those who decide to live their lives in a way that speaks to meekness at the Bema Seat Judgment. This is a person who does not fight back with those who take advantage of his or her way of life. Gentle, mild, meek are several ways to describe this person. God's reward is worth the effort.
As we continue in our study of the Sermon on the Mount, today we focus on Matthew 5:4. Jesus includes mourners among those who will receive special commendation by God the Father. Disciples who have a longing for the relief that Christ will bring with him when he returns. Those whose sufferings are not removed before death. Those who faithfully follow God's commands while suffering physically, mentally, socially. God will console them with his mercy at the resurrection.
Matthew 5:3 promises those who choose to suffer for the Kingdom of God by giving away the things of this world will receive a reward worthy of their sacrifice. Listen as we talk about "the Poor in Spirit."
Unfortunately, the word "Blessed" misleads most readers of Matthew's sermon on the mount. "Happy," "fortunate," or "blessed," does not convey the sense the Lord Jesus intended. In this life, there is nothing happy, fortunate, or blessed about suffering. Rather, Jesus is looking to the next life when how you lived in this life will really matter.
What the Bible teaches about "rewards" is confusing to a lot of people. Others have oversimplified the matter to the point of nonsense. Yet, it is the most critical doctrine a believer must understand after salvation by grace. Listen as I try to help you understand this critical teaching of the New Testament.
Cooper apologizes for incorrect teaching about "Grace." Sets the record straight. Grace in salvation is not the same as grace in sanctification!
Six times in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns his disciples about rewards. Instead of doing deeds to be praised by men which ensures you will have no reward with God, Jesus commands us to live to receive praise from God. Mathew, the gospel of rewards, has a sobering message for us today!
The nature of the people Jesus describes as citizens of his coming Kingdom rule are not your typical everyday run of mill folk. In fact, they are the opposite of what the world describes as successful people. Strive to be the people Christ wants you to be and you will be happy with his commendation, exaltation, and Honoration when his kingdom comes. Otherwise, you may be shocked and very disappointed at your disposition at the judgment seat of Christ.
To properly understand the Sermon on the Mount, you must understand what is a disciple and what was the meaning of the term 2000 years ago when Jesus began his ministry.
In this episode we look at the fundamental difference between the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of John. Matthew is concerned about the Gospel of God. John is focused on the Gospel of Christ. Do you understand the difference?
Even if you don't understand, you do want to reign with Christ in his kingdom. However, it is not automatic. You have got to earn it!
The Sermon on the Mount as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew is the best summary of what a person needs to do to participate in the Sovereign Administration of God. If you want reign with Christ in his coming kingdom you must earn it! The Sermon on the Mount tells you how to do it!