The Simple Gospel Message

"The simplicity of the gospel gives what the complexity of human wisdom promises but never delivers."  - John MacArthur

In life, there are many instances where we are required to demonstrate our proficiency/knowledge before we are permitted to perform a certain task, or work in a chosen field.

Common examples are acquiring a driver's license, completing a course of study and an examination to become a doctor or dentist, or fulfilling requirements to become a licensed contractor.

Many balk or hesitate at becoming a Christian because of their lack of knowledge in understanding the gospel message. They somehow feel intimidated, or unworthy of doing so. But nothing could be further from the truth!

God does not require a person to first show their expertise in understanding the gospel message before they can become a Christian. There is no test of competency or skills to take.

God in His infinite wisdom knew this might concern some, so He made it simple. It (the gospel message) doesn't have to be understood by those who seek Him. It only needs to be received in simple faith.

Let me clarify this even more. It isn't our total understanding of the gospel that gives us the blessing, rather, it is believing and receiving it. Unfortunately, there are some who "know" all about the gospel, but haven't progressed from there.

Nicodemus, in the Gospel of John, is a good example. He was was a leading member of  the Jews, a good moral, religious man; very educated, and meticulous in keeping with the letter of the law.

Yet with even all his "knowledge," after hearing Jesus speak he felt he was missing something. He recognized something special about Jesus. Jesus possessed a new quality of life in Him that aroused Nicodemus' interest.

Nicodemus asked Him about this. Jesus told him that unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). He then explains the "new birth" further, which we can see in John 3:16.

In His brief, but powerful response, Jesus was trying to make it clear to Nicodemus that he didn't have to substantially raise his moral standards, or acquire more education. Neither are there any proficiency exams required.

What Nicodemus needed was to receive a new quality of life (eternal life) which begins in this world and transfers into the next. The first step of which begins with receiving the gospel message in faith.

The basics of the gospel message can be summed up as follows:

- All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23); A sinner must admit his guilt before God in order for forgiveness to happen, and  understand that the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

- Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for our sins; of which we could never be able to do on our own efforts.

- His death and resurrection was a victory over final death; the horrible penalty of sin. Instead, believers are promised "eternal life" with Him in heaven.

- Jesus Christ offers a free gift of salvation to all who believe. If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9).

Now you see, God has made His plan of redemption within reach of everyone. The essential idea of the of the gospel's saving message can be found within the pages of the Bible that sits on your shelf. The rest is up to you!

Scripture: Mark 1:1; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 1:16; John 3:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21;

Prayer:  Dear God, You showed us Your love by sending Your One and Only Son into the world that we might live through Him. May we reciprocate this act of love by giving You glory and praise from our hearts every day. Amen.

Bless you always,

Brielle