February 20, 2023

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16

Because of their knowledge of the written word, God’s plan to teach salvation to the world began with His chosen people. Paul points out the advantage of the Jews by saying to them were committed the oracles of God (3:2).

As Jesus preached and taught in the synagogues of Galilee, He encountered those who had unclean spirits. Today we might call it mental illness.

Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!” Mark 1:23-24

Although the Scriptures contained recorded details of Lucifer and the other heavenly angels who accompanied him in disobedience, the Jews of Jesus’ day had lost touch with the reality of God’s power over evil angels. After Jesus rebuked (v.25) the head demon (based on the text, there were numerous demons) [the Jews] were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” (v.27)

Beloved, let it not be said of us that demons recognize Jesus when we do not! Let it not be said of us that they obey Him better than we!

The gospel of Christ is not only the good news of forgiveness of our past the moment we trust in His sacrifice on our behalf, but it is also the power of God to salvation, meaning the help and grace of the Holy Spirit to lead us to a life of obedience. There is a beautiful song that says: “Trust and obey, for there’s no other way . . .”

Millions in the world today profess Christ; but the “Jesus” that they believe in places his blessing upon a lifestyle of sin that blends in a “works” theology of checking off certain boxes, all while continuing in sin. This is definitely a “gospel” to be ashamed of. It is an idolatrous, “carved image” message; a message designed to please unregenerate people. The most effective way to help others stay clear of this broad snare is to steer clear of it ourselves.

I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ to a different gospel  . . . Or do I seek to please men? . . . But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. Galatians 1:6,10,11

Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 2 Timothy 4:2-4