Have You Heard The Good News?

The word "gospel" means good news.  In the Bible it refers to the good news of Jesus Christ.  It is absolutely essential that you understand the gospel.  You cannot go to heaven unless you know the gospel, because we are saved by faith in the gospel, and you can't put your faith in something that you do not know.  Also, if you do not know the gospel, then you cannot lead anyone else to Christ.  You won't be able to lead your children, or grandchildren, or friends to be saved.

So what is the good news of Jesus Christ?  It is a very simple message that can be summarized with four words:

CREATION:  God created you to glorify Him -- to have a friendship with Him in which you love and serve Him and reflect His holy nature.  1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God."

CORRUPTION:  You have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."  The punishment for sin is eternal separation from God in hell.  Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

CROSS:  Jesus Christ died in your place for your sins so that you could be forgiven and receive eternal life.  Romans 5:8 says, "But God proves his own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  The penalty for your sin was paid in full by the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

CHOICE:  Whoever believes in Jesus will have eternal life.  John 3:16 says, "For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."  Christ has done everything necessary for your salvation.  Now, the ball is in your court.  You must make the decision to repent (turn from your sins) and put your faith in Jesus.  We are not saved by good works, but by trusting in Christ's work on the cross. 

This is the good news.  The best news.  Learn it.  Believe it.  Share it with everyone you know.