That's the good news. But before we talk more about the good news, we have to talk about some bad news. We are all infected with the disease of sin. Sin has entered into our world, and we are all guilty of it. It is our very nature to sin. Sin is when we rebel against God, His commands, or His will. There is nothing we can do that can free us from our enslavement to sin. Not only does our sin separate us from God, but we deserve God's wrath and judgment because of our sin.
But God always had a plan to rescue and redeem His people from their sin. And that is why He sent Jesus Christ to the world. Jesus, who is God Himself come in the flesh, came and lived a perfect life, taught with authority, and performed many miracles. But most importantly, Jesus suffered and died on the cross in place of His people. He bore the wrath of God that His people rightfully deserve for their sin. On the cross, there was a great exchange: Jesus took the sins of His people and subsequently the judgment they deserved; and His people in return received the righteousness of Christ. And so all of His people-that is, all those who trust in Christ as their Savior-have their sins forgiven and are declared righteous before God. Jesus came to rescue His people from their enslavement to sin so that they can truly be forgiven and enjoy a restored relationship with God.
And then three days later, Jesus rose victoriously from the grave conquering sin and death. And after appearing to many of His followers, He ascended into heaven where He now sits at the right hand of God the Father. He is Lord of all, and He has promised to come back to fully and finally eradicate sin.
The gospel is the good news that Jesus came to rescue His people from their sin. And so the invitation goes out to all to truly trust in Christ. The cross of Christ stands at the center of human history to say, "Come to Christ and be saved!" All who humble themselves and trust in Christ and receive the grace that is in Him, He will not turn away but He will save. Those who are saved enjoy a restored relationship with God, the joy of His everlasting presence, and eternal life with God and all of His people in a renewed, sinless world.
Will you trust in Christ today? Will you believe the gospel and receive Christ as your Lord and Savior?
If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact Pastor Jim (jim@faithbiblejackson.org). We would love for you to come to church to hear the good news proclaimed and to see it lived out by God's people.