King James Bible
"From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
This marks a pivotal transition in Matthew's gospel—Jesus moves from private preparation (baptism and temptation) to public ministry. The phrase signals the formal launch of his teaching mission immediately after John the Baptist's arrest. Jesus' central call demands metanoia—a complete change of mind and direction, turning from sin toward God. This echoes John the Baptist's message but carries greater authority as it comes from the Messiah himself. The long-awaited reign of God has drawn near in the person of Jesus, requiring urgent response. Matthew's distinctive phrase 'kingdom of heaven' (rather than 'kingdom of God') reflects Jewish reverence in avoiding direct use of the divine name.