A Reminder

I have to return to the basics sometimes in my meditations about God and the Lord Jesus Christ. I remind myself of the good news (gospel) of God concerning his Son (Jesus) delivered by the Apostle Paul. Here are the basics:

The Son of God, Jesus Christ, died for the sins of mankind

He was buried and remained in the tomb for three days and three nights

He was resurrected to life

"Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it...I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said." (1 Corinthians 15:1, 3-4)

When I believe those three things I feel blessed and have peace, joy and hope. When I question or am tempted to stop believing those three things, I lose hope.

"For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with HOPE to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say." (Titus 2:11-15)

It is sad that many go to church filled with the peace, joy and hope of salvation only to leave with a load of guilt piled upon us by well meaning, but wrong minded, pastors, evangelists, teachers and friends.

God finished the work of Salvation at the cross. It is ours to rest in and enjoy. We should share this good news with other sinners without adding anything to it. Then daily thank Him for such a wonderful free gift and try to live life in appreciation for what he has done for us.

"This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers. Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them." (1 Timothy 4:9-11)

"...love your enemies and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil people. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:35-36)

It has been a long time since the simple gospel has been preached in the Church. As best I can tell it left the church on June 19, 325 AD when the Council of Nicaea was called to order, yet it remains on the pages of Scripture in Paul's letters (Romans through Philemon) should anyone be inclined to search it out.