The Simplicity of the Gospel

It is so simple that a ten-year-old can understand it. One does not need the brain of the proverbial rocket scientist, nor a degree in theology.

The salvation message can be condensed into one sentence. Jesus came to show us how to live, was crucified to forgive sins and give eternal life to those who will repent, believe and obey.

To prove He could indeed overcome death, Jesus rose from the grave. The Bible tells us the disciples saw and spoke with Him at least three times after the resurrection (John 21:14). Incidentally, the Internet Public Library says the Bible is “by far the world’s best-selling book of all time.”

We all need the salvation of Jesus because everyone falls short of God’s standard of the ten commandments. We have all broken at least one, if we are honest. The Bible says “for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).

The Collins English Dictionary defines sin as “a transgression of God’s known will; the condition of estrangement from God arising from such transgression.”

What a pity the word sin has disappeared from the platforms of many of today’s churches. To them sin is unpalatable, it is not popular with the listeners. However, the Bible does not mince words. Because of sin we are separated from God. So God sent Jesus to redeem us. The Bible says: “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace.” Ephesians 1:8-9 (chapter 1 verses 8, 9).

Jesus says no-one comes to the Father [God] except through Him. John 14:6.

He says those who believe go on to eternal life, those who disbelieve, the wrath of God is upon them. (John 3:36).

Many are misled to think all this is “just religion.” It is much, much more. Jesus insists He is the difference between eternal life and eternal death, whatever title anyone gives it.

There is no fence-sitting with Jesus. There are no shades of grey. At death a person is either saved or they are not. They are born again or they are not. Jesus says those not born again cannot enter God’s kingdom (John 3:3). They will not be written in the Book of Life (Revelation 20:15).

Anyone refusing Jesus’ salvation can be likened to the person drowning 100 yards from the beach. He says to the surf lifesaver: “Go away, let me drown.”

So it all comes down to simple choice. Do we believe Jesus is who He says, and what He says, or do we not believe? Will we trust in Him or ignore Him?

Anyone choosing the lake of fire of Revelation 20:15 goes there by their own choice. They decide to reject or ignore what Jesus offers.

So we are faced with a choice: accept or reject the gospel. What will your choice be?