The Power of the GospelSample
The Gospel Truth About Jesus
We used to have a big, black Suburban (which we named “The Black Pearl”).
It had some problems. One major one was that the gas gauge showed “full” all the time until suddenly it would drop to “empty. " Then, you had about fifteen kilometers to go before she would be completely out of gas.
One time, I was traveling on a long stretch of highway. Someone else had been using the vehicle just before me, and I assumed they had filled it with gas.
Well, there I was with my three youngest children (aged three to eight at the time), and the fuel gauge suddenly dropped to “empty.” The closest gas station was seventy kilometers away. Though I prayed for a miracle, my expectations were a lot less. Sure enough, we ran out of gas.
I needed a rescuer.
Now, I don’t know if I would recommend this today, but I found myself and my three young children hitchhiking on the side of the highway. They thought it was awesome; I felt I was in contention for the “Worst Dad of the Year” award.
Fortunately, we found our rescuer. We were picked up and brought to the next gas station. We got our gas and then hitchhiked our way back to the Pearl.
I couldn’t have done it on my own. I needed someone to help fix the situation.
The truth is that we have no possible way of gaining eternal life on our own. We have sinned and made a terrible mess of things. We are desperate for a Saviour.
Jesus Christ came to earth, lived a perfect, sinless life, and then allowed Himself to be killed to pay the penalty for our sins.
This is definitely good news! We can experience full forgiveness for all of our sins and a perfectly restored relationship with God Almighty—all because of Jesus!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have given Yourself for me. You who are perfect in every way have sacrificed for me, who is full of sin. Thank You for the gift of Your life. Thank You for saving me. Amen.
Reflection: It can be really hard for guys to admit they need help. We can be slow to go to the doctor, ask for directions, and acknowledge that we have no idea what we are doing. It is our pride that keeps us this way. God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Are you living a life of humility or pride towards God?
Scripture
About this Plan
The Gospel tells us the truth. “Gospel” means “good news.” We like good news. Tell me there’s a check in the mail. Tell me it’s going to be a mild winter. Tell me I’m getting a promotion at work. This week, we will explore the good news of this Gospel. Written by Tim Bergmann of Alliance Community Church in Sylvan Lake, Alberta.
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