WHAT IS THE GOSPEL?
Since becoming the nation’s capital in 1800, Washington D.C. has been a place of messaging. Every incoming president has offered messages and slogan to outline their vision for America. Examples include:
· I like Ike.
· Are you better off than you were four years ago?
· It’s time to fix America.
· Change and hope.
The greatest message needed in Washington D.C. is not a political one, but a spiritual one. That message is the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. In a day of religious confusion, see what the Bible says about the Gospel.
Mark 1:1
“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;”
The Gospel is the message of Jesus Christ. Late night comedians make Him the object of mockery and derision. Hollywood actors use His name in vain in many of the blockbuster movies. Yet, He is the exalted Son of God. There is no good news apart from Jesus Christ. A religion without the Son of God is a dead one.
1 Corinthians 15:1–4
“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”
The Gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. His death on the cross was for our sins. His burial in the grave gave the disciples a temporary feeling of defeat and despair. But His resurrection proved to the world that He was the Son of God and that He could give life to all who will believe on Him. A cross-less gospel is a cheap one. A church that denies the literal resurrection of Christ cannot offer victory. There is no good news without the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.
Mark 16:15
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
The Gospel is God’s message for mankind. He wants every man to hear it. In 2024, it was estimated by the mayor’s office that more than 700,000 people reside in Washington D.C. God wants every person in every ward to hear the Good News. He wants every visitor walking the National Mall to hear it. He wants every elected official and public servant to hear that Jesus saves.
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”
The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. Those that believe on Christ are transformed by a power that is supernatural. Man cannot reform himself and erase his guilt. He can self-medicate and salve his conscience with the man’s best teachings and the trappings of organized religion. But in the end, only the power of the Gospel can change a man’s life.
Romans 10:15
“And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”
The Gospel is peace. Peace is something that man has sought after since the beginning of time, and yet it always seems to elude him. On any given day, war is taking place somewhere on this earth. However, the greatest of battles is taking place in the heart of men and women every day. They have no peace. If you are looking calmness, assurance, and forgiveness, look no further than the Gospel.
Colossians 1:5
“For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;”
The Gospel is the truth. Lies and falsehood may bring temporary delusion and happiness, but in the end, they result in deception and destruction. The truth will bring light to your eyes and help to your weary soul. It is still possible to find the truth if you are willing to look to the Gospel.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a social or political message. It is a life-giving one. Now that you have read what it is, consider the next question. What will you do with it?
Acts 16:31
“. . . Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved . . .”.