“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16)
What is the gospel? If I am going to preach, I must preach the gospel, because the scripture says: “Woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” And men of the past have rightfully declared before that I am not the only one in danger. If you are going to hear, “Woe is unto you, if youhear not the gospel!” Eternal life and death hinges on whether or not The Lord God has revealed the truth of the gospel to us.
So, what is the gospel? As simply as I know to state it, the gospel is the good news of what Christ accomplished for ruined sinners. Sinners who were Spiritually dead because of their sin, and could not do one thing to save themselves from eternal destruction. But Christ came and suffered their destruction for them. He died a perfect death as them, and gave His perfect life to them. The gospel is all about how Christ took our place, and gave us His. It can be summarized in this one word: Substitution! It has nothing to do with our works; the gospel is all about His work! It has nothing to do with our decision or will; it has everything to do with His purpose and His will. The message of the true gospel is not a “How To” be saved, but a declaration (an announcement) to every child of God that has been given an ear to hear and a heart to believe, that he or she HAS ALREADY BEEN SAVED! Christ has already finished the work!
Ruined sinner, you have been redeemed be the blood! Just rest! It’s done! That is such good news to me! I pray it is to you too.