“And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.””
Luke 24:45-49
Gospel = Good News. Jesus Christ is Good News. It is His atoning death and the wonder of His resurrection. It is His sending of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, working in and through us. It is the declaration of the present rule of God among us, as we live in a sin-soaked world. It is that Jesus Christ, alive and real, can and would be present in the life of every person who would come to Him, in repentance and faith, right now.
The Gospel is news about new birth (1 Peter 1.3). Fresh growth (Isaiah 11.1, Romans 15.2). A wind that releases life (John 3.6-8). A star that shines bright in the morning (2 Peter 1.19). A fragrance that blesses – and can also offend (2 Corinthians 2.14-16). It is the message of the Word made flesh – alive, active, powerful in penetrating into hearts (Hebrews 4.12). The Gospel is a powerful instrument. Use is wisely. Never forget or underestimate its ability to transform the world you live in and the people around you.
I thank you, Heavenly Father, that my Lord Jesus Christ ever seeks to enter the door of human hearts, again and again. To come in, healing lives to live more fully; transforming minds to think ore wholesomely; to save and rescue from darkness, sin, despair and hopelessness. Strengthen me in confidence and ability to handle this power of the Gospel, in releasing others from the dominion of Satan and leading them into new life in Jesus Christ. Amen.
