The Gospel

By Javan Shashaty

“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived, and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”—Titus 3:3–7 (NIV)

Growing up in the church is a great experience. But there was a point in my life where it started to get old. I enjoyed the services and hanging out with my friends, but that was pretty much it. Don’t get me wrong, I knew a lot about God! I could recite the lyrics to the latest hit worship song. I could recount all the main stories in the Bible. And of course, I could tell you all the things you weren’t allowed to do as a Christian. I thought I knew what it meant to follow Jesus. But, I was missing the most important thing: the gospel. 

The gospel is not knowing about God. The gospel is about knowing God! Why would someone want to know God? Well, that’s a great question with an even greater answer! God is holy and righteous and because of His perfection, He cannot associate with sin. Our sin condemns us to a life separated from our Creator. The only way back to God would be if God Himself laid down His life. An unimaginable exchange. Our sin for His perfection. What kind of God would do that? 

There’s only One! Our God sent Jesus Christ, His beloved Son, to live a perfect life on earth. Jesus died a criminal’s death on a cross. Why did He have to die? In order to pay the price for our sin and mend our relationship with Him (Romans 6:23). Jesus rose again from the dead three days later proving that death is no longer the end. And now, for those who follow Jesus, they don’t just get heaven . . . The perfection of Jesus is credited to their account! That’s right. When God looks at you, He sees the righteousness of Christ! This is the gospel that changes EVERYTHING! 

As we begin the devotional plan, we have to start with the foundation of our faith. If we cannot understand and articulate the gospel of Jesus Christ, we have missed the goal of following Jesus. The gospel is fundamental to who we are and what we believe. It is the good news that saves us, but it doesn’t stop there. The gospel is the reason why we’re called not to stay stagnant, but to grow in our faith. It’s also the motivation to live on a mission and reach others for Christ. We have to start with the gospel. The gospel is like the box to a really difficult puzzle. Without it, nothing else makes sense. 

As you read these passages today, look for the language of the gospel and let it remind you of what Jesus did for you!