Good News

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 may come in the form of an announcement, like a wedding invitation or card announcing the birth of a new baby. It may be a new release about a new treatment for cancer or Alzheimer’s. Or, It may be spoken in Sunday morning service of a congregational prayer that has been answered. 

When we think of the word gospel, we are likely to think about the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. But the word gospel comes from the Greek word euangelion, which translated to Old English as “gōdspel,” meaning “good news.” The Gospels are the authors' remembrances of the events of Jesus’ life, His bringing the good news of salvation to all humanity.

When Saul experienced his conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19, 22:6-16, 26:12-18), Jesus revealed his good news. Thanks to the Gospels, the letters of Paul, and the other authors of the New Testament, the good news of Jesus is revealed to us today. 

All those who have faith in Jesus Christ and its message of healing and promise of eternal life can be saved. In our acceptance, we are filled with the Holy Spirit, who takes up residence in our souls–washing away the sin that was formerly there and replacing it with righteousness. We desire to live and move in a new direction, guided by the Spirit.  

When we hear good news, we want to share it. It’s too good to keep to ourselves. As a grandparent, I look forward to sharing stories and pictures of the grandchildren. It is the same with the gospel. We don’t want others to remain bound in sin but to experience the spiritual freedom found in Jesus. As Paul writes in verse 16, “For 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.”

Gracious Father, thank you for sending Your Son, Jesus, the bearer of the good news. By our faith in Him, we are made righteous. You fill us with the Holy Spirit and lead and guide our feet in Your path. Help us, Lord, to share Your message of deliverance with others. Give us the courage to speak boldly about our transformations from darkness into the light. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim