The Italian Memorandum

controversy, n. [L. controversia, from controversus, turned in an opposite

direction; contra, against, and versus, to turn] 3. a discussion of a question in

which opposing opinions clash

“…the LORD has a controversy with the inhabitants of the land…”

(Hosea 4:1)

Introduction: There is controversy about the kingdom of heaven.

The Gospel of Matthew makes this explicit (esp. Matthew 1-7).

1. Matthew 1

2. Matthew 2

3. Matthew 3

4. Matthew 4

5. Matthew 5-7

Conclusion: Jesus is still at the center of a controversy because his kingdom is a controversial kingdom. Now, where do you stand in this controversy?