by Matthew C. Harrison “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). The kingdom of heaven is God’s good Gospel gift. Luther commented, “If our dear Father were not to give the kingdom to us, we would never buy it from Him or earn it. The word is give, give, give. Therefore, we should thank Him with a cheerful heart and not boast about our worthiness” (Luther, St. L. IX.1812; my translation). John the Baptizer saw this king...
