Why on earth use "Kingdom of Heaven"?: Matthew's terminology revisited

Many current Matthean scholars argue that Matthew employs the phrase "kingdom of heaven" as a circumlocution for the divine name. However, by analysing the author's rhetorical and sociological strategies one finds that "kingdom of heaven" combines with other "heavenly&q...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:New Testament studies
Main Author: Foster, Robert L. 1970- (Author)
Format: Electronic/Print Article
Language:English
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Published: Cambridge Univ. Press 2002
In: New Testament studies
Year: 2002, Volume: 48, Issue: 4, Pages: 487-499
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Matthew / Kingdom of God / Terminology
IxTheo Classification:HC New Testament
NBQ Eschatology
Further subjects:B Heaven
B Kingdom of God
B Matthew
Online Access: Volltext (doi)
Description
Summary:Many current Matthean scholars argue that Matthew employs the phrase "kingdom of heaven" as a circumlocution for the divine name. However, by analysing the author's rhetorical and sociological strategies one finds that "kingdom of heaven" combines with other "heavenly" language (especially "Father in heaven") to reaffirm the reader's identity as the true people of God. This language defends Jesus as a Davidic messiah, showing that he came to establish a heavenly, not earthly, kingdom. Furthermore, the "heavenly" language reinforces the disciples' commitment to Jesus in the midst of persecution, reminding them that their identity, affirmation, and goal are in heaven.
ISSN:0028-6885
Contains:In: New Testament studies
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1017/S0028688502000292