Have you ever wondered why the New Testament seems to introduce various “gospels”? From Matthew to Revelation, different labels like “gospel of peace,” “gospel of the kingdom,” and “eternal gospel” are used. It’s crucial to recognize that these are not separate gospels but different dimensions of the one true gospel, collectively providing a comprehensive view of God’s redemptive plan.
Our journey into the heart of the gospel begins with the Gospel of Grace, aptly described by the Apostle Paul in Acts 20:24. This gospel is not built on doctrines or theologies but on the person of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 reinforces this, stating that Jesus is full of grace and truth.
Grace sounds like Jesus.
Jesus is the embodiment of God’s graciousness.
Christ’s sacrificial death for our sins.
His burial.
His resurrection in accordance with Scriptures.
His appearances, validating the reality of resurrection.
This gospel declares the finished work of Jesus, something unattainable through human efforts. Romans 1:16 emphasizes that it is the power of God for salvation through faith in Christ.
1. The Gospel of Grace is Not Advice to be Followed, But News to be Declared:
While good advice can guide us through life, the gospel is not advice; it’s news. Unlike advice, news declares something that has already happened, changing our lives. The shepherds, interrupted by the angel with the news of Jesus’ birth, didn’t need steps or rules but received joy through the good news.
2. Grace is Not a Part of the Gospel; It is the Gospel:
Emphasizing one aspect of the gospel over others can lead to an incomplete understanding. Grace is not a part; it is the essence of the gospel. Separating grace from the gospel leads to joyless legalism. Galatians 3:3 warns against seeking perfection through self-effort.
3. Grace is Not Cheap, But It is Free:
Critics may label grace as “cheap,” but the Bible describes it as abundant, surpassing, and precious. Grace is free to us but came at a great cost – the blood of Jesus. While critics argue for “easy believism,” Jesus made salvation accessible, countering the burdensome loads imposed by religious leaders.
As we wrap up Part 1 of “The Gospel of Grace,” remember that the good news of grace isn’t just a part of the gospel; it is the gospel. It’s not advice to be followed; it’s news to be declared. And though it’s free to us, it came at a great cost. Embrace the truth of God’s grace, and let it transform your understanding of the gospel. Stay tuned for the upcoming parts of this series as we explore further dimensions of the gospel message.
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We exist to declare + demonstrate the gospel to everyone, everyday, everywhere.