The gospel is not a myth or a benevolent spiritual concept. It is the true story of a real historical person.
John the apostle wrote these amazing words:
We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. 2 This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us.1 John 1:1-2 (NLT)
The apostle Peter, who was an eyewitness to everything that happened, wrote the following in one of his letters:
For we were not making up clever stories when we told you about the powerful coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We saw his majestic splendor with our own eyes 17 when he received honor and glory from God the Father. The voice from the majestic glory of God said to him, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.” 18 We ourselves heard that voice from heaven when we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:16-19 (NLT)
The gospel is the true story of a real person and all he accomplished on our behalf, who he is right now, and what he will do in the future. It continues to impact the world and determine eternal destinies.
Jesus’ incarnation, birth, ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension are all historical facts that were witnessed by many. His future coming as the glorious judge will one day be seen by everyone. At that moment, it will be obvious to all that Jesus is a real person, the most important person who ever lived, and that the Bible is true; but then it will be too late for those who rejected God’s offer of reconciliation.
Currently the gospel gives people the opportunity to acknowledge the historic Jesus’ identity as the Lord of lords and bow the knee to him while there is still time.
As God’s representative, I beg you not to reject this marvelous gift of God’s kindness!
For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT)
Prayer
Lord, I will no longer spurn your kind offer to be reconciled to you through the blood of your Son. Please forgive my sins. I receive all that Jesus did for me, and I give my life to you. I acknowledge that Jesus is Lord. Come, Holy Spirit, into my life. Fill me to overflowing. Change me on the inside to be more like Jesus. Help me to tell others about him. Amen.
