Wednesday, April 19, 2023
Get the Basics Down
For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. (Ephesians 6:15 NLT)
It’s amazing how many Christians think that good works will get them to Heaven. They believe that God has some kind of point system, and if they do enough good things, it will outweigh the bad things they’ve done. But nothing like that is taught in the Bible.
The problem is that many Christians don’t understand the basic message of the gospel. They point to their own works as to why they will go to Heaven. And some people who claim to be Christians think that Jesus Christ isn’t necessarily the only way to God. They think that all roads lead to God, as long as people are sincere in their hearts.
However, Jesus made radical and exclusive claims. He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NLT). Any examination of the basic message of the gospel will quickly reveal that Jesus Christ is the only way to a relationship with God.
While it’s true that non-Christians need to hear the gospel, it’s also true that Christians need to learn the gospel. We need to know the gospel before we can share it with others.
The apostle Paul wrote this about the Christian’s spiritual armor: “For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared” (Ephesians 6:15 NLT).
In Paul’s day, the Roman soldiers wore sandals with nails or cleats on the soles to give them firm footing. They could dig in and hold their ground. In the same way, the Good News, the gospel, gives us security and a firm foundation on which to build our lives.
When was the last time you went out of your way to share the gospel with someone? When was the last time you prayed for someone to come to Christ?
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Some Christians think Bible reading, prayer, fellowship, and sharing their faith are things they eventually move beyond. The truth is just the opposite. In What Every Growing Christian Needs to Know, Pastor Greg Laurie explores the foundational practices that help believers grow spiritually and stay strong in their faith. Whether you're a new believer or have followed Christ for decades, this practical guide will help you focus on the things that matter most. Request your copy this month with your gift to Harvest Ministries.
