Value #3 - The transforming power of the Gospel.
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
On December 23rd, 1979 my life was forever changed when I embraced the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom. These changes were radical but somewhat transparent to the eyes of men. It was more than the external life-style changes that took place as I repented of my ways (although this is important). It was much more. I was transformed in three very distinct ways: My relational position with God, my daily practices, and my ultimate destiny of being in the presence of God. The gospel is the beginning and the end of a transformed life. It really is “good news.”
The Gospel powerfully transforms a person’s standing or position with God. The truth that all men are spiritually dead in sin may not be recognized by the natural man but it is true nonetheless (Rom 3.23, 6.23). When a person places trust in the Good News of God’s plan of reconciliation through His Son, Jesus Christ, they shed spiritual deadness and enter into eternal life. (Jn 3.16, 5.24, 2 Tim 1.10, Rom 1.16)
The Gospel powerfully transforms a person’s daily practices in God. Understanding God’s love for us and our new found security in Jesus compels us to live life differently. But transformation is a result of much more than earthly efforts; it is the work of God (Phil 2.12-13). We start a sanctification process from the moment we embrace the Gospel (Rom 16.25, 1 Cor 15.1-4, 2 Cor 9.13, Phil 1.5-6, Col 1.5-6).
The Gospel powerfully transforms our ultimate destiny with God. One day, as a result of receiving Jesus Christ, we will be glorified. It is our eternal end state. It is a state of perpetual blessing in the presence of Jesus Himself. Our relationship with God will be completely reconciled in position, practice, and presence (2 Thes 1.8-10, Rom 8.17, 30, Phil 1.23, Col 3.1-4).
The Gospel (Good News): Man can be given right relationship with God in His Kingdom through person and work of Jesus Christ.
What are your favorite verses of Scripture on the Transforming Power of the Gospel? Feel free to post them below.
(Gal 2.20)
(Mark 10:29)
(Rom 12.2)
(2 Corinthians 4:3-7)
(Ephesians 1:13-14)
© 2008, 2009 Following Jesus by Chuck Wood All Rights Reserved
