1. In Revelation John saw a number of angels who served God in various ways. 2. This particular angel had something very special -- "the everlasting Gospel." 3. The everlasting Gospel is for the benefit of everyone on the earth. 4. In vs.7 this angel made an appeal for everyone to have a proper relationship with God (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). 5. The everlasting Gospel is the key to accomplishing this (Mark 16:15-16). 6. Since the everlasting Gospel is so special, we are studying a text of Scripture that reveals some important information about it: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8. 7. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL PLAYS AN ESSENTIAL ROLE IN CHRISTIANITY
A. (vs.1) Paul was presenting the same message he had earlier preached in Corinth. 1. We read about Paul's work in Corinth in Acts 18. 2. Some time later, he wrote this letter to the Christians in Corinth. 3. It is unfortunate, but it had become necessary for him to present the same message he had already taught them. 4. (vs.3a) Paul did not invent this message -- he had "received" it [the Lord had revealed it to him -- Galatians 1:11-12]. B. Christians have responsibilities that relate to the Gospel. 1. (vs.1b) We are to "stand" in it. 2. (vs.2) We are to keep it "in memory." C. The Gospel allows us to enjoy a special blessing. 1. (vs.2a) It is by the Gospel that we are saved. 2. This is why we must stand in the Gospel and always keep it in memory. D. These verses show us that the Gospel plays an essential role in Christianity. E. Let us turn our attention to . . . II. THE PRIMARY FACTS OF THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL
A. (vs.3b) First, the death of Christ is mentioned. 1. Notice that Christ died "for our sins." a. According to Hebrews 2:9, Jesus came in the flesh for this purpose. b. He did not die for His own sins because He had no sin -- He died for our sins. 2. All of this was "according to the scriptures" (see Isaiah 53:4-6). B. (vs.4a) Second, the burial of Christ is mentioned. 1. An interesting prophecy was made in Isaiah 53:9. a. We know that the Lord was crucified between 2 thieves -- He died with "the wicked." b. He also made His grave with "the rich." 2. We learn from Matthew 27:57-60 that a rich man named Joseph buried the Lord's body. C. (vs.4b) Third, the resurrection of Christ is mentioned. 1. He rose from the grave on the 3rd day. 2. This was "according to the scriptures" (Isaiah 53:10). 3. How do we know that Jesus was resurrected? (Many witnesses saw Him -- vs.5-8). III. HOW ARE WE SAVED BY THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL?
A. This is explained in Romans 6:3-7, 17-18. B. This is what the people in Corinth did when Paul preached the Gospel to them (Acts 18:8). Conclusion:
1. Have you been saved by the everlasting Gospel? 2. Are you keeping the everlasting Gospel in memory? 3. Are you standing in the everlasting Gospel?
