UNDERSTANDING THE GOSPEL – PART 2 Nahum 1:15; 1 Thess. 1:5; 1 Thess. 2:3-5

God has entrusted the mystery of the kingdom (enclosed in the Gospel) into the hands of mortal men.  We, as human beings have been entrusted with the sacred things of the kingdom of God, to bear the living oracles of God (Acts 10:1-5; 2 Cor. 4:7).

Important things to understand:

1. There must be reconciliation between the message and the messenger (1 Thess. 1:5; 2:3-5; 2 Cor. 4:2). God is interested in the personal life of the one who bears the vessel.

2. The Word of God is one of the major instruments we need to effectively preach the Gospel. The Word cleanses us from spiritual dirt, strengthens our feet, gives us authority over darkness and represents the Rod of His strength (John 15:3, 13:5-10, Luke 10:19, Psalm 110:2)

3. Whereas it is foolishness to the world, it is our destiny, our power, our life! It is a ministry whereunto we have been called... (1 Cor. 1:18-24, Mark 16:15)

4. The Gospel of Christ is a gospel of selflessness (Romans 12:10). It’s not a ‘bread-and-butter’ gospel (Mark 8:34-38; John 12:24-25)

5. The message of the cross (gospel) draws men to Christ (John 12:32-33)
The cross is a place of exchange, where people cease to live, and allow Christ to live through them (Gal. 2:20)

6. People are entrusted with the ministry (word) of the Gospel, so that the church of God can come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of Christ (Eph. 4:11-13).

What are we to expect? / What are the things expected from us?

1. Bearing the marks of Christ (His sufferings and reproaches) – 2 Cor. 11:23-27; Gal. 6:17. Identify with the sufferings of Christ.
Expect the envy and wrath of others....expect murmurings, gossip, but don’t let any of these deter you from fulfilling the Master’s call.

2. You will lose many friends. Even associates and close relatives might end up forsaking you (John 6:66-67)

3. You will become a threat to many, authorities inclusive (John the Baptist - Mark 6:18; Paul and Silas – Acts 16:19-24)

4. Expect a great reward from the Lord, in this world and in the world to come (Luke 18:28-30; Mark 10:28-30; Matt. 19:27-29)

Proof(s) of the authenticity of the Gospel

1. The testimony of Christ (John 10:41-42; Acts 14:3)
2. Signs and wonders will follow.... (Mark 16:20)
3. You will be acceptable to God, approved of men... (Rom. 14:17-18; 2 Cor. 8:21)

Prayer: Lord, baptize me with the Spirit of the Gospel. Let my life portray the Gospel of Christ. Let my life draw men to Christ...

Lord, empower me to be a witness unto You in my generation. It takes the anointing of the Holy Spirit to preach the Gospel effectively... (Isaiah 61:1, Acts 1:8, 10:38)

pastor nath.SADELA

Resident pastor{GACikeja}

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