Wednesday; April 12

When we think about the message of Christianity, what comes to mind? Unfortunately, to many people, they envision a harshness that is designed to keep them from having any fun. Others perceive that the New Testament is intended to keep one particular type of people down. Still others believe that the message is filled with hatred, meanness and oppression. Yet, I want to ask us to set aside our preconceptions for just a second and take a look at the original intent of the message of Jesus. Throughout the New Testament, the message of Jesus is referred to as the “gospel”. According to the original meaning, the gospel is good news. When you really analyze it, the message of the Bible – especially the New Testament – is that Jesus came to save us from our sins and that is the best of news.

Through the years the precepts of the uplifting message of Jesus trek to earth have been misconstrued, but when we go back to the beginning, to the original message of salvation, we can still share the good news with mankind – however we must be intentional with what we are teaching. When the Apostle Paul reflected on his ministry, he noted, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (Romans 1:16). Let’s not get bogged down in what people might think the message of Jesus might be – let’s make sure we teach the good news of the salvation offered through Jesus.

Think About It!

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