A Simple Reflection on the Core Message of the Gospel
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, then the end will come.” (Matt. 24:14)
Have you ever wondered if the gospel message we hear today is unchanged? Is it the same as what Jesus and His apostles preached? In today’s world, values and ideas are constantly changing. It’s easy to lose sight of the timeless and powerful truth of the gospel. Let’s take a moment to explore this and reflect on what the gospel really means.
The Spirit of the Age and Its Influence
Every era has its own values, beliefs, and cultural norms – what some call the “spirit of the age.” This can shape how we view the world, including our faith. Ephesians 2:2 describes this as the “course of this world.” It is a corrupting influence that often blinds people to the truth. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 explains that “the god of this age” has blinded unbelievers. As a result, they can’t see the light of the gospel.
Relativism is one major challenge today. It is the idea that all truths are equally valid. Truth is whatever an individual believes it to be. This concept sounds appealing. But, it undermines the core message of the gospel. The gospel is not relative but absolute. God is restoring our broken lives through Jesus Christ.
The Simple Yet Profound Message of the Gospel
At its heart, the gospel is “good news.” It is the announcement that, through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, God is bringing His kingdom. His rule and reign are coming into our lives. When Jesus began His ministry, He declared, “The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15).
This simple message calls us to turn away from our old ways (repent) and trust in God’s plan (believe). It’s not just about personal change. It is about being part of something much bigger: God’s kingdom. This kingdom brings righteousness, peace, and joy through the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).
Staying True to the Message
As Duncan Campbell, a Scottish Evangelist, once pointed out, there’s a danger in preaching a gospel. It is risky when the gospel “conveniently accommodates itself to the spirit of the age.” It makes no demand for godliness. Have we, in our wish to be culturally relevant, watered down the gospel? Is the message we hear today lacking the fire and passion that once stirred hearts and transformed lives?
Jesus’ gospel was anything but lackluster. When He preached, people were moved to repentance and faith. He healed the sick, confronted hypocrisy, and welcomed the outcasts. His message had power because it was rooted in God’s truth and love.
The Kingdom of God: Not of This World
Jesus often spoke of His kingdom, saying, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This doesn’t mean His kingdom is irrelevant to our lives—it means it transcends earthly systems and priorities. It’s about God’s rule in our hearts and lives. This rule leads us to live in ways that show His love, justice, and holiness.
Matthew 24:14 reminds us of a significant message. “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations. Then the end will come.” The “this” gospel explains the kingdom’s message. God is breaking into our world to renew it. He will also restore it.
Where Do We Go From Here?
In a time of turmoil and uncertainty, the world is hungry for hope and meaning. People are struggling with their faith, their finances, and their sense of purpose. What they need is not a diluted message but the life changing power of the gospel.
As followers of Christ, we are called to share the good news. It is the same message that Jesus and His apostles boldly proclaimed. It’s a message that addresses both our immediate needs and our eternal destiny. It’s a message of freedom, healing, and restoration.
So, let’s ask ourselves: Are we preaching the true gospel? Are we living as citizens of God’s kingdom, showing the world what it means to follow Christ? And most importantly, are we pointing people to the hope and joy that can only be found in Him?
The gospel is not just words—it’s life-changing truth. Let’s embrace it, live it, and share it with passion and purpose.
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 