Not, what is the specific meaning of the word here or there; but, generalizing its various applications, and combining its several shades of signification into one view, What is the Gospel? Is it a particular set form of words?
Certainly not. If it were, no man could preach it, except by the mere repetition of those words. Then, what is it? To answer briefly, I would say, It is God's proclamation of a plan of mercy to sinners. It is the divine revelation of grace to fallen man. It is the publication of forgiveness and eternal life through the mediation of Jesus Christ.
Hence, whatever announces Christ as the Redeemer, and holds forth forgiveness and salvation through him, comprises and proclaims the Gospel. We call that the Gospel which narrates the Savior's history, simply and only because it is an account of the Redeemer. We apply the same term to the peculiar doctrines, ordinances and precepts which constitute the Christian system, for the reason that in these Christ is proposed and given to the believing and obedient in all his saving efficacy.
The same word is used to denote the scriptural promises of forgiveness and mercy, in contrast with the exactions of the law; but all these various applications are easily resolvable into the one great, original idea of God in Christ reconciling the world unto himself.
The Gospel in Leviticus
No comments:
Post a Comment