The Gospel is a term often used to refer to the message of personal salvation. Some see it as only a formula for how a person can be forgiven and have a personal relationship with God. This is too small an understanding of the Gospel. In its original context, the Gospel included the message of personal salvation and a great deal more.
Gospel comes from the Greek work euangelion, meaning good news or glad tidings. The Hebrew equivalent occurs often in Isaiah’s prophecies. These Old Testament references refer to the Messianic Kingdom coming to earth. Isaiah 40:9-11 and Isaiah 52:7 are examples of the prophet declaring the good news (Gospel) of the Messiah coming and establishing Yahweh’s kingdom on the earth.
The references to good news in the New Testament draw on this Old Testament background. Israel’s long-awaited Messiah had finally arrived. His name is Jesus Christ. When the angel announced the birth of Jesus, he said, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people,” (Luke 2:10). The message was understood in the context of the Kingdom Isaiah presented. This is what the people of God were waiting for.
Gospel: Glad Tidings
Gabriel told Mary (Luke 1:32-33) that God would give the Messiah the throne of David, and He would reign over the house of Jacob. His kingdom would be an everlasting kingdom. Notice what the glad tidings were not.
They were not that Jesus was coming to offer a system of personal salvation, or that He was coming to make it possible for every person to have a relationship with Him. These things are part of the Good News and should never be minimized, but Gabriel’s emphasis was more universal.
The Gospel is summarized by the announcement that Jesus is Lord and His Kingdom is being established. The full realization of this will not be apparent until He comes again. His work of redeeming creation started with the Gospel proclamation. That work continues through the Body of Christ today as we carry out the Great Commission.
So when Paul speaks of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it should be understood as the conquering, triumphant entry of a new King and Kingdom that affects every area of life. There is no area the Gospel doesn’t touch. The Gospel proclamation is the announcement that He is Lord over all of creation and every area touched by the curse.
Stan – Guest Post
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