What is the Gospel?

We have just begun a series with the Youth in Romans, and as we look at chapter 1:1-17, we see that Paul is anxious to preach the Gospel to those in Rome. But wait ... he's writing to Christians. Why would he want to preach the Gospel to Christians?

That depends on what the Gospel is in the first place.

If we take the somewhat common approach that the Gospel is the message of "how to get saved," then Paul isn't making any sense. And based on all that Paul wrote, especially the book of Romans, Paul doesn't seem like the kind of guy who rambles nonsensical platitudes.

Clearly, the Gospel is more than just the message of salvation.

One way to approach the question of "what is the Gospel?" is to just read the entire book of Romans. That's the Gospel! More than just the message of guilt ("for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," 3:23) and justification (being declared righteous before God, 5:1), the Gospel includes sanctification (the lifelong process of being conformed into the image of Christ, 8:29). The Gospel includes walking by the Spirit (8:1-11). The Gospel includes exercising the giftedness God has given us for the purpose of building up His Church (12:3-8). The Gospel includes being transformed by the renewing of our minds (12:1-2).

In other words, the "Gospel" is the message of the entire Christian life. The whole package. Not just "getting in" but also the whole journey that ensues. The Gospel is the message of an entire life yielded to God for His glory.

Paul was anxious to preach the Gospel to people who were already saved because the Gospel includes so much more than just getting saved.

If you claim the Gospel, I encourage you to remember the fullness of the Gospel you are claiming.