Title: “The Power Of The Gospel”
Scripture: Romans 1:16-17
Introduction:
The gospel is the one and only message that has tremendous power and the one thing that Christians should not be ashamed of. It is a message that came from God, and is centered around His Son, Jesus Christ. As God’s chosen people we need to realize and explore the power that this gospel contains.
I. POWER FOR SALVATION
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
A. Man has made great strides, but none of his achievements can bring forgiveness and cleansing to his own heart and soul
B. The gospel is the power of God to bring salvation to all mankind
Illustration:
“To preach a social gospel without the redemptive background of the individual salvation from sin of the individual sinner is like launching a glider instead of a high- powered plane. A glider may soar for awhile on the fickle currents of the wind, and climb high on some sudden up-draft, but it is the four whirl-wind motors that will carry a bomber to the stratosphere and jet-propulsion and rockets that will take a plane beyond the speed of sound”
C. When we surrender to God in total commitment, the Holy Spirit cleanses and fills us with the love of God
II. POWER FOR SERENITY
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
A. All of man’s amazing scientific achievements have failed to bring peace
1. There are more strife’s
2. There are more conflicts
3. There are more wars than ever before
B. The only source of real and lasting peace today is found in the power of the gospel
C. When we accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of our life, we may claim the promise, “The peace of God…shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”
(Philippians 4:7)
III. POWER FOR SECURITY
“To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
(1 Peter 1:4-5)
A. Millions are searching for security through education, popularity, and accumulation of wealth
B. The only real and lasting source of security is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ
C. Earth’s treasures wear out, rust, and decay
1. The love of God, salvation, and the assurance of eternal life are forever
2. They are lasting and eternal
IV. POWER FOR SERVICE
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)
A. Many Christians are weak, faltering, lacking in courage, concern, and the power to do God’s work
B. When Christians make a total commitment to God, they are cleansed and filled with the Holy Spirit
C. Surrendered Christians are empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling them to work, witness, and win the lost to Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8)
Conclusion:
The gospel is the good news that God gave us his Son, so as to obtain for us everything that would be good for us. Therefore the gospel is the power for salvation, serenity, security, and service. It alone can triumph over every obstacle in life and bring us to eternal joy.
