The Visible Church is the Kingdom of Heaven
Benj. Keach. Matthew 25:1-13 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened to ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.… I. IN WHAT RESPECT THE VISIBLE CHURCH MAY BE COMPARED TO A KINGDOM. 1. Because it is under kingly government. 2. Because it is a distinct state from any other kingdom or sort of government. 3. Because every kingdom consisteth of divers sorts. 4. Because the same laws bind all sorts of persons within the compass of the kingdom. 5. Because ignorance of laws is not allowed in excuse of wrong-doing. 6. Because in every kingdom there is a statute book, and officers to govern. 7. Because in a kingdom all who violate the laws are called to account and punished. II. WHY IS THE CHURCH CALLED THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN? Because — 1. Its constitution and laws are not of this world. 2. The same King reigns as in heaven. 3. The doctrine, faith, order, rule, and government promote a heavenly life, and so lead to heaven. 4. The saints are the subjects of heaven. 5. The Church is the figure of heaven. 6. The Church ought to show the glory of heaven begun below. (Benj. Keach.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. WEB: "Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom.