Everyone loves good news. When the doctor says the treatment worked, we cheer. When our family gathers to hear that we are expecting a child, there is a celebration. When we land that well-paying job, we have a party and revel in the great announcement. Even the evening news highlights a segment featuring “good news.”

So, it struck me this week that we all might need to be reminded that there is an even more amazing kind of positive news, and it is found in the Bible. When the New Testament was written, the writers used the word “euangelion” to express the amazing, good news that Jesus Christ died for our sins, that He rose again and now sits at the right hand of God the Father, triumphing over all of God’s enemies.

Simply stated, we call this good news, the gospel.

Mankind needs this good news because we rejected God’s original plan to dwell among His people in joy and harmony (the Garden of Eden). He started His relationship with one man and one woman. And He gave them one rule. And instead of taking God at His word, they decided to express their own selfish ambitions and broke His one law. Their sin ruined God’s original design (Romans 5:12).

But each of us have reinforced that sinful nature with our own choices and sin. We desperately need help and spiritual relief.  And so, God immediately began a grand plan to redeem men and women from their sin. That wonderful plan is the gospel, the good news that Christ chose to go the cross in our place and offer Himself up for our sin (Eph. 2:8-9).

Paul calls this good news of “first importance.” We might say it is a very big deal.

So, if you find yourself struggling under the shame and guilt of choices you have made, turn your face toward the Lord Jesus and receive His good news.

1. Acknowledge that you are a sinner. Turn away from your selfish lifestyle and repent of your sins.
2. Recognize that Jesus went to the cross to pay for those sins.
3. Realize that He also rose from the dead for you. He wants to give you new life.
4.  With a simple prayer of confession and commitment, ask Jesus to become your Lord and Savior.

Embrace the GOSPEL…it is GOOD NEWS!