From First to Last

For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” Romans 1:17 (NIV)

We love to receive good news. It might arrive as a joyful announcement—a wedding invitation, the birth of a child, or a medical breakthrough. Sometimes it’s spoken aloud in worship, as a prayer answered or a burden lifted. Good news has a way of stirring hope and inviting celebration.

When we hear the word gospel, we often think of the four accounts—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. But the word itself, euangelion, means “good news.” The Gospels are testimonies of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—God’s good news embodied in human history.

This good news didn’t begin with Jesus’ earthly ministry—it was anticipated long before. Paul’s words in Romans 1:17 echo a promise from the Hebrew Bible, found in Habakkuk 2:4: “The righteous will live by faith.” This ancient affirmation of trust in God’s justice and mercy becomes a thread that runs through the entire gospel story. From the prophets to the apostles, God’s invitation to live by faith has remained constant—revealed more fully in Christ and carried forward by those who followed Him.

Faith in Jesus Christ brings healing, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. When we receive this good news, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, washing away sin and planting righteousness. We begin to walk in a new direction—led not by fear or shame, but by grace and truth.

And like any good news, it begs to be shared. As grandparents delight in showing pictures of the little ones, so we delight in sharing the gospel. We want others to know the freedom we’ve found. As Paul writes in Romans 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

Holy God, thank You for the good news that began in Your heart, was revealed through Your Son, and continues through Your Spirit. From first to last, you have been faithful.  

Let our lives reflect the righteousness You’ve planted within us. Grant us courage to share the story—not just with words, but with love, mercy, and joy. May our witness be a continuation of Your gospel, reaching hearts still waiting to hear. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim