A Full Gospel

2 Samuel 21-23; 1 Thessalonians 1

“…our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.”

1 Thessalonians 1:5, 6

How are we communicating the Gospel?

Paul pointed to his ministry in Thessalonica as more than just words. He reminded the Thessalonians of a Spirit-filled Gospel, an incarnational Gospel, a costly Gospel, and a joyful Gospel. I love the balance in this full Gospel expression. Paul arrived in Thessalonica from a Philippian jail cell and a severe beating. With blood on his clothes, Paul joyfully preached of Jesus raised from the dead. The Holy Spirit anointed Paul’s words and confirmed them through the Scriptures and with signs of the power of God. The Thessalonians could see Paul’s courage and willingness to endure suffering for the Gospel, so they, like Paul, willingly paid a price for the costly Gospel of grace. 

If the only Gospel our neighbors would ever see and experience came through our lives, would that Gospel transform them?

“Lord Jesus, live and speak through me so others clearly see you and your Gospel, for your glory.”