For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3)
The last week has been a bit of a whirlwind for me. I have been growing more impressed with the power and preeminence of the gospel as I attend classes at the University of Jesus. His gospel is indeed precious because he is precious. His message of truth is really the basis for everything we say and do as believers.
The specific scope of being impressed has to do with the versatility of the gospel. As Christians we aim to live Christ-Centered, gospel-driven lives, therefore everything we say and do should flow from a proper understanding of and reaction to the gospel and in so doing bring much glory to God. So here is are some examples of the versatility of the gospel from the last seven days:
Wed, Dec. 13: I went to the jail here in Omaha and met with some men. The topic of conversation centered around the gospel of Christ. We read Scripture, discussed conversion, and exhorted one another towards being gospel centered.
Thu, Dec. 14: Met with some men to talk about the return of Christ, specifically his powerful reign as King.
Fri, Dec. 15: We had a Christmas party, we had a Q&A session with questions that dealt with our proper understanding of the gospel.
Sat, Dec.16: I was privileged to preach the gospel to our Sr. High group at OBC during their Christmas party.
Sun, Dec. 17: We had a baptism service where five individuals gave Christ’s testimony in their lives of how he brought the gospel to them with great power and effect.
Mon, Dec. 18: I was privileged to officiate a wedding for some friends. I exhorted them to have a Christ-Centered, gospel-reflecting marriage that exalts Jesus Christ.
Tue, Dec. 19: God was pleased to permit me to officiate a funeral. The funeral was made up in large part of Roman Catholics (with the exception of the handful of family members who invited me to preach). I stood just feet away from an open casket and preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and urged others to submit to the King and exalt in his work through the gospel.
Man I love the gospel. It is so powerful (Rom. 1.16) and so beautiful; to see its versatility here in meeting so many needs causes me to marvel. How glorious is our great Savior Jesus in his gospel!