The Glorious Gospel
The glorious gospel of Christ, oh what words can I use to describe it. What a marvelous thing it is that can breathe life in to a dead soul. Can cleanse it from unspeakable decay making it fit for service to the almighty God of heaven. What amazing thing it is that such grace would be bestowed on any! Nonetheless a race of criminals of the worst kind deserving of eternal destruction in unending torment day and night. What a mystery that God would choose any to grant salvation through His gospel. We have been in rebellion against the King who now seeks to save us from our due punishment. What a glorious gospel indeed that is mighty to save such a wretched and undeserving people. How can we be ashamed of such astounding grace?
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation”
Romans 1:16
The Power of God
This is why the gospel is described as the power of God. There is nothing else that can satisfy justice and extend mercy resulting in imputed righteousness towards the sinner. There is nothing of man in it. It puts to shame his works and schemes of self-righteousness. It becomes foolishness to them who pursue a self-made path. (1 Corinthians 1:18)
As the power of God it is complete and sufficient to save. The gospel is unto salvation. Where affected upon man by God its end is salvation. It is not merely a way to salvation or an attempt to bring about salvation. No! It will result in salvation because it is the power of God for that purpose. Look at the words of God to Jeremiah (23:29) “’Is not My word like a fire?’ says the LORD, ‘And like a hammer that breaks the rock into pieces?’” The gospel is the power of God that breaks the heart of stone and inserts a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26) It is the two-edged sword that slays the prideful and lays open the heart bringing conviction of sin and righteousness. (Hebrews 4:12) It is a mighty weapon that casts down the arguments of man and bring submission to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5) Oh, why would we rely on anything else!
Do not cast aside in shame the gospel. It is the only thing that is effectual in the salvation of men. Stand firm on its foundation and do not surrender to pressure to please men. Lift up Christ as you witness and put your trust in the power of God and not yourself. For it is the LORD who is strong and mighty; It is the LORD who is mighty in battle. (Psalm 24:8)
Go and share your faith with boldness!