“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16 KJV
Many people don’t watch the news because it’s disheartening. In fact, it seems as though bad news is more rampant than the good ones. However, there is one particular news that is constantly good and that’s the news of salvation that brings eternal life through our Lord Jesus.
The Greek word for the word “gospel” is “euaggelion” which means “good news”. This type of news do not negatively affect one’s mood. Instead, it changes one’s life forever.
In Romans 1:16, Paul described this good news as the power of God:
“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 KJV
Think about it, how else would you describe a message that is able to save one from eternal death and condemnation? What better way is there to describe a message that translates one from darkness into the kingdom of God’s dear Son? It has to be powerful! (Colossians 1:13).
Let’s look at a few reasons why the message of the gospel is good news:
First, it is for everyone. The Bible clearly says that whosoever believes in Him has eternal life (John 3:16, Rom 8:14).
Please note that “Him” here refers to Christ – His death, burial and resurrection.
Secondly, the gospel is a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9). In Nigerian parlance, “na dash” because there’s no way we could have earned it. It was lavished on us in Christ (Ephesians 2:4, 1:3-8).
More good news? The gospel isn’t just free, it comes with the seal of the Holy Ghost. This is our assurance of eternal life (Ephesians 1:13). We don’t have to worry about the durability of what we received because the one who started the good work in us is able to complete it (Hebrews 10:14, Philippians 1:6, Hebrews 12:2).
Another reason this message is good is that it doesn’t condemn. It is a message that gives life, freedom from sin, and satisfaction. (2 Cor 5:17, Rom 8:1, John 4:14).
Lastly, it is simple and accessible. The only thing that is required from you is to believe – simply believe and you will be saved (Rom 10:9-10, John 3:16).
On a final note, there is a way to respond to this good news; we rejoice and we tell the world (Mark 16:15). Remember that this news can never become stale, therefore our response must also remain the same – rejoicing and telling the world.
Bible Reading Plan:
Mark 7:1-23, 1Cor 12:1-13, Psalms 88, Judges 13-15.