“For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.” 1 Thessalonians 1:5
The gospel, or the good news of Jesus Christ, is succinctly defined in 1 Corinthians 15:1-3, where Paul reminds the Corinthians of the core of his preaching:
“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.”
From this passage, the gospel is the message that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day, all in accordance with the scriptures.
How Does the Gospel Come to Us and to Others?
1. It Comes in Word:
The foundational way the gospel comes to us is through the word of God. As Romans 10:17 says, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” This highlights the importance of preaching, teaching and sharing the Scriptures so that others can hear and believe.
2. It Comes in Power:
The gospel is not just words, but it is accompanied by the divine power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.
“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.” Romans 1:16
This power transforms lives, proving that the message is not merely human words but the very power of God.
3. It Comes in the Holy Ghost:
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the transmission of the gospel. He not only convicts people’s hearts of their need for salvation (John 16:8) but also indwells and empowers believers to live out and share the gospel with power.
4. It Comes in Assurance:
The gospel provides assurance of eternal life. 1 John 5:13 tells us, “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” This assurance encourages believers to live faithfully and share the gospel boldly, knowing their eternal destiny is secured.
This understanding of the gospel’s power and its impact will deepen our appreciation and commitment to sharing this life-changing message with others.
