Obeying the Gospel Involves Belief (Mark 16:15-16)
Introduction:
1. We learn from Mark 16:15 that the Lord wants everyone to hear the Gospel. 2. As we pointed out 2 weeks ago, "obeying the Gospel involves hearing God's Word." 3. Three weeks ago we showed from the Scriptures that we must obey the Gospel of Christ to be saved from our sins. 4. In this lesson we are covering passages which show that "obeying the Gospel involves belief." 5. Let us begin with the point that . . .
Discussion:
I. "BELIEF" IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE PLAN OF SALVATION
A. In Mark 16:15-16 Jesus included "belief" in the Great Commission. B. Earlier, in John 3 Jesus taught very clearly that "belief" is essential. 1. According to vs.14-16, those who believe in Jesus will be blessed with eternal life. 2. Jesus continued in vs.18 by showing that unbelief will result in condemnation (see John 8:24). C. Paul told the jailer in Philippi to believe on Jesus to be saved (Acts 16:30-34). D. Paul also connected "belief" and salvation in Romans 10:9-11. E. Now that we know that "belief" is a requirement for salvation, let us turn our attention to . . .
II. WHAT THE LORD REQUIRES US TO BELIEVE
A. Let us consider the meaning of the word translated "believe" [Thayer: "A conviction, full of joyful trust, that Jesus is the Messiah - the divinely appointed author of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God, conjoined with obedience to Christ"]. B. In Acts 8:35-37 the eunuch showed that we are to "believe that Jesus Christ in the Son of God." C. Now that we know what we are to believe, let us consider some . . .
III. EVIDENCE THAT LEADS US TO BELIEVE THAT JESUS IS GOD'S SON
A. The testimony of God 1. God identified Jesus as His Son at His baptism (Matthew 3:16-17). 2. God also identified Jesus as His Son at His transfiguration (Matthew 17:5). B. The Scriptures (John 5:39) C. The miracles of Jesus (John 20:30-31; 2:23; 3:2) D. The testimony of John (John 1:32-34) E. The testimony of many other people 1. Nathanael (John 1:45-49) 2. Peter (John 6:68-69; Matthew 16:15-16) 3. Martha (John 11:27) F. The resurrection of Jesus (Romans 1:3-4)
IV. BELIEVING IN JESUS ALSO RELATES TO CHRISTIANS (Those who have been saved]
A. Believing in Christ is a great source of comfort (John 14:1). B. Believers are to set the proper example (1 Timothy 4:12). C. Those who believe on Jesus enjoy special blessings (1 John 3:22-24; 5:5, 13).
Conclusion:
1. Christ wants everyone to hear the Gospel because He wants everyone to believe on Him. 2. Have you accepted His invitation (Matthew 11:28-30)?
