The Really Good News

Read: Mark 16:9-20

He told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Mark 16:15

IN WORD

The word gospel is part of the basic vocabulary of most Christians. We use it to describe the message of Jesus, one of the first four books of the New Testament about Jesus’ ministry, or a genre of music. Many are aware of its common translation as “Good News.” We take it for granted that the gospel equals Jesus equals goodness.

But there’s a difference between our intellectual understanding of “gospel” and how we apply it to our lives and the lives of others. In the experience of many, the gospel hasn’t been very good news at all. Some believers, misunderstanding the freedom it gives or the depths to which it can take them, feel burdened by its high standards or unrealized fulfillment. And those outside the faith tend to equate it with the condemnation they sense from Christians, the political views of vocal Christians, or a holier-than-thou facade Christians often present. None of that seems good.

What is the truly good news Jesus sent His followers to preach? That the Kingdom is coming, and the King is very kind, generous, and welcoming—even to those who do not accept Him. This King will put everything right, heal all wounds, wipe away every tear, and establish true freedom in this world. Life on earth will be “as it is in heaven,” and heaven is better than human stereotypes have portrayed it. This Kingdom is the desire of all nations and the longing of every human heart.

IN DEED

Much of what we preach to all creation is not the Good News. Many Christians preach the Good News to some of creation—usually those who agree with them—while those who preach to all creation often present news that isn’t very good. The true gospel is always appealing, always winsome, always a blessing to those who need it. Not every hearer will recognize its goodness or its value, but they should at least hear of it. Our assignment as Kingdom citizens is to make sure they do.

ADDITIONAL READING: Isaiah 52:7

Christ’s riches are unsearchable, and this doctrine of the gospel is the field this treasure is hidden in.

THOMAS GOODWIN