Lord’s Day 31
Q84. How does preaching the gospel open and close the kingdom of heaven?
As Christ commanded: The kingdom of heaven is opened when believers are told that all their sins are truly forgiven by God because of what Christ has done. The kingdom of heaven is closed when unbelievers and pretenders are told that, as long as they do not turn from their sin, God's anger and eternal punishment remain on them.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Matthew 16:19
John 3:31–36
John 20:21–23
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What happens when believers are told that their sins are forgiven because of Christ?
- 2
What happens when unbelievers are told that God's anger remains on them?
- 3
Why is it important that the church speaks both of these messages and not just one?
Illustration
A lifeguard at the pool does two things: he calls swimmers to safety, and he blows his whistle to warn those in danger. Leaving out either job would be a failure. The church preaches the open door of forgiveness to believers and the closed door of judgment to those who refuse to repent. Both messages come from Christ himself.
Application
This week, thank God that the gospel is an open door for everyone who trusts in Christ. Pray for someone you know who has not yet believed. Ask God to use the preaching of his Word to bring that person through the open door.