The Gospel: The Good News Jesus Commanded Us to Preach
The word gospel comes from the Greek term eacute;vangelion, meaning good news. It represents the joyful proclamation of Christ's message and the covenant He offers to humanity. In this article, we delve into the essence of the gospel, its origins, and why it remains the best and most significant good news ever proclaimed. We will also explore the commandments Christ gave us regarding the gospel and how it continues to guide our lives and faith.
Genesis: The First Gospel
The story of the first gospel is found in Genesis 3:14-15. Although this passage initially seems to deliver a curse upon the serpent, it's the good news that follows which truly underlines the gospel's significance. Here, God proclaims the serpent's defeat immediately, laying the foundation for future redemption:
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel. - Genesis 3:15
This prophecy points to the promise of one who will crush the serpent's head and bring salvation to humanity. This seed refers to the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ.
The Four Gospels in the New Testament
The New Testament comprises four gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—which provide a detailed account of Jesus Christ's life and teachings. These books offer insight into the life of Jesus and the fulfillment of God's promise of enmity between the serpent's seed and the woman's seed:
Matthew 1:18-25: A description of the miraculous conception of Jesus.
Luke 1:26-38: The annunciation to Mary about Jesus's birth.
Luke 1:5-25: Preparing a believing couple for the birth of John the Baptist, who would later prepare the way for Christ.
The Gospel and its Spread
The gospel is not just a story or a historical account; it is the message of redemption and transformation. It is the source of joy, hope, and faith. In Luke 1:76-77, it's written, By the tender mercy of our God, with which the dawning or breaking forth of light shines upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. This speaks to the liberating and transformative nature of the gospel.
The Great Commission and the Gospel
The command to spread the gospel comes from Jesus Himself in Matthew 28:18-20:
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.’
Jesus emphasizes the importance of teaching the disciples to follow His commands and to remain with them until the end. This commandment compels believers to be studious and diligent in spreading the good news, always guided by Christ's teachings and presence.
The Role of Prayer in the Gospel
An essential part of the gospel is the role of prayer. Jesus teaches us that we must pray to the Father, but that this can only be done through Him. According to John 16:23-24:
And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
This passage highlights the intimate relationship we share with Christ and our great dependence on Him in prayer.
In conclusion, the gospel is not merely a collection of historical narratives but a living, transformative message of salvation and guidance. It teaches us to seek God, to find peace in Christ, and to spread the message of hope and redemption. As Jesus commanded, we must continue to be faithful to His teachings, spreading the good news with love and integrity.