Question: What actually is the gospel?

   Answer: The astute listener can observe many different definitions given to the gospel by different religionists. The Greek word for gospel is defined as, "..good news" (W.E. Vine). Certainly, the gospel announces good news: summed up in God's love as shown in the giving of his Son and man's opportunity to enjoy the salvation in Christ (Jn. 3: 16). However, as the student considers the expanded
meaning of "gospel," I believe they will agree with the restorer Walter Scott who said, "the gospel consists of facts to be believed, commands to be obeyed, and promises to be anticipated."

    Facts to be believed. The essential facts to be believed are found in I Corinthians 15: 1-4. Paul said, "Jesus died for our sins...was buried...and arose again the third day..." Hence, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.

    Commands to be obeyed. The fact that the gospel must be "obeyed" is indicative of the fact that the gospel contains essential commands. Belief is a command (Acts 2: 36). Repentance and baptism are also commands (Acts 2: 38, 10: 48). The Christian is commanded to grow and increase in knowledge (2 Pet. 3:18, 1: 5-10). Christians are commanded to be steadfast and productive (I Cor. 15:
58, Col. 1:10).

    Promises to be anticipated. The remission of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit is a promise anticipated by those not yet Christians (Acts 2: 14-47). God has promised to provide an escape with each temptation faced by the Christian (I Cor.10: 13). God has promised to forgive all sins which the Christian will confess (I Jn.1: 7-9). The ultimate promise is eternal life (Tit. 1: 1,2).

    Beloved, what is your view of the gospel? We urge you to receive the gospel in its original purity and fullness (Gal. 1: 6-9).