The Gospel Provides Special Blessings (Romans 1:13-17)
Introduction:
1. In Romans 1:13-17 Paul mentioned "the Gospel" as well as his commitment to preaching it. 2. Gospel: "good news" 3. The primary facts of the Gospel are revealed in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. 4. The fact that Jesus died, was buried, and was resurrected on our behalf is certainly good news. 5. The Gospel is also good news in that there are a number of blessings associated with it. 6. In our lesson we are concentrating on 4 special blessings that the Gospel provides. 7. Being mindful of these blessings will help us to stand in the Gospel and to keep it in memory (1 Corinthians 15:1-2).
Discussion:
I. SALVATION (Romans 1:16)
A. Through the Gospel, salvation is offered to all [this is why Christ wants the Gospel to be preached to "all nations"]. B. However, only those who believe will be saved (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14). C. This applies to both Jew and Gentile (Acts 15:6-11).
II. LIFE AND IMMORTALITY (2 Timothy 1:8-10)
A. The true Gospel focuses on Christ and His will. B. He came to provide "the abundant life" (John 10:10b).
III. PEACE (Ephesians 6:15)
A. The Gospel makes peace possible between man and God (Ephesians 2:11-13). B. The Gospel also makes peace possible between men, including Jews and Gentiles (Ephesians 2:14-18).
IV. HOPE (Colossians 1:21-23)
Conclusion:
1. These final verses sum up what we have been studying. a. We learn from the Gospel how we can be reconciled to God. b. The Gospel makes it possible for us to be presented "holy, unblameable, and unreproveable" in the Lord's sight. 2. (vs.23) "If" indicates that this is conditional. 3. In order to be reconciled to God and to be prepared to face the Lord when He returns, we must: a. continue in the faith grounded and settled b. not be moved away from the hope of the Gospel. 4. The fact that the Gospel provides hope ought to cause us to want to obey it. 5. According to 1 Peter 4:17-18, there will be no hope for those who refuse to obey the Gospel.
