The Power of the Gospel

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘But the righteous man shall live by faith.’” Romans 1:16-17

People often wonder what happened to the disciples after the resurrection. Many became our first missionaries. Much of Peter’s work was with the Jews in Jerusalem; Philip went to Samaria, as did John. Later Paul traveled extensively carrying the gospel throughout Asia Minor, Syria, Macedonia, and Achaia. Those who traveled with him, Timothy, Titus, Luke, and Silas, also joined the missionary troop.

One might think the thrust of their message was complicated, but it wasn’t. They simply told others what Jesus had done for them and mankind through His life, death, and resurrection. The message of the gospel was so powerful that by the end of Nero’s life and rule in A.D. 68, Christianity was a movement that forcibly challenged all other religions.

Judaism, the Mosaic Law, and the worship of false gods were no match for the gospel message - neither are the false religions of today. Only a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ has the power to break the stronghold of sin, guilt, and legalism.

The most effective tool we have apart from the Word of God is our Christian testimony. When you tell others what Jesus has done in your own life, you join the ranks of members of the early church.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation...” Romans 1:16