Before you hear anything about our church, we want you to know the most important news in the world called “the gospel.” What is the gospel? The word “gospel” means “good news.” It’s a message from God to humanity about the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ.
God
This message begins with God. There is one God who is the righteous and holy Creator of all things (Genesis 1:1; Isaiah 6:3). Since he created all things, he owns all things—all of creation is rightfully under his authority and rule (Psalm 103:19). And since he is holy, he cannot overlook sin (Romans 1:18).
Humanity
God as creator means he created us. We are part of his creation. Indeed, humanity is the pinnacle of creation because we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). This means that we were originally called to represent the rule of God over his creation. However, instead of accurately reflecting the character and nature of God, humans chose to rebel against his rule. This is what is called “sin.” Sin is any action, thought, or desire that is contrary to God and what he commands (Galatians 5:19-20; James 1:14-15). Sin is problem because God is holy, and because we are sinful, we deserve God’s just punishment (Romans 6:23).
Jesus
Enter Jesus! This is the very reason why Jesus (who is truly God—John 1:1) became a man (John 1:14). Some 2,000 years ago when Jesus walked the earth, he lived a life of perfection—the life we were required to live but couldn’t. And he died on a cross, bearing the punishment upon himself that sinners deserve (2 Corinthians 5:21). And three days later, he rose from the dead, demonstrating his defeat of sin and death (Romans 4:25). That’s good news!
Repentance and Faith
But how does the good news of what Jesus accomplished for sinners like us benefit us? We are called to respond to this good news with repentance and faith (Acts 2:36-41). Repentance means that we TURN FROM our sin and no longer live at settled peace with it. And faith means that we TURN TO Jesus, relying solely upon him and what he accomplished for sinners in his life, death, and resurrection. And ANYONE who repents of their sins and trusts solely in the work of Jesus on their behalf, are given right standing with the holy and righteous Creator of all things (Romans 3:21-26).