# The law and the prophets

This refers to all of God's word that had been written up to that time.

# were in effect

"had authority" or "were what people needed to obey"

# John came

This refers to John the Baptist. Alternate translation: "John the Baptist came" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]])

# the gospel of the kingdom of God is preached

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I am teaching people about the good news of the kingdom of God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-activepassive]])

# everyone tries to force their way into it

This refers to the people who were listening to and accepting the teaching of Jesus. Alternate translation: "many people are doing everything they can to enter it"