And this good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world, as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come (Matt. 24:14).
The unchanging nature of the gospel is rooted in the character of God Himself, who is described as immutable. Malachi 3:6 states, “For I, the LORD, do not change; so you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.” This divine constancy assures believers that the message of salvation through Christ is reliable and steadfast.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the unchanging nature of the gospel. In Galatians 1:8-9, he declares a powerful warning. He states a conditional scenario. He warns: “Even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, he should be under a curse!” As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse! Here, Paul underscores the importance of adhering to the original message of the gospel, warning against any alterations or distortions.
Core Elements of the Gospel
The core elements of the gospel include the recognition of human sinfulness and the need for repentance. They also include the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ and His resurrection. There is the promise of eternal life for those who believe. Romans 3:23-24 explains the human condition and offers the provision of grace. It states, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” It also declares that individuals are “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”
The resurrection of Christ is a pivotal aspect of the gospel, as it validates Jesus’ victory over sin and death. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 , Paul succinctly shares a crucial gospel message. “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures. He was buried, and He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”
The Gospel’s Universality and Timelessness
The gospel is universal in its scope, intended for all people regardless of ethnicity, culture, or social status. This universality is highlighted in the Great Commission. In it, Jesus commands His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20 : “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey all that I have commanded you.”
Despite the passage of time and the evolution of human societies, the gospel remains relevant and applicable. Hebrews 13:8 affirms, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This verse reassures believers. It emphasizes that the message of Christ’s love and redemption is as pertinent today. This message is as relevant as it was in the first century.
Challenges and Preservation
Throughout history, the gospel has faced challenges from false teachings, cultural pressures, and philosophical ideologies. Yet, the church has been called to preserve the purity of the gospel message. Jude 1:3 exhorts believers to “contend earnestly for the faith once for all entrusted to the saints.”
The preservation of the gospel is not merely a defensive act but also involves the active proclamation of its truths. Paul, in Romans 1:16 , declares, “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” It is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. It is first to the Jew, then to the Greek.
In summary, the unchanging gospel is a testament to the enduring truth of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. It remains a beacon of hope and a source of life for all who embrace its message.
May your journey be blessed with wisdom and grace.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
All Scripture references are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) unless otherwise noted.
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