What If You’re Missing the Best Part of the Gospel?

Response & Benefits (39–43) (7/14)

Jesus, help us and empower us as we invite people to surrender to you. We don't use the word "repentance," but it is that concept we proclaim. We want people to turn from their path and follow your teaching and example. It's a life-changing decision.

There are so many benefits of the gospel, of knowing and following you, and they cannot be expressed with any one word. Forgiveness is not a major theme in the Gospels or Acts, but it is a powerful aspect of the gospel. So is the empowering of the Spirit of God. And healing, in all its dimensions.

But the goal is to be transformed to be like you, Jesus. And to be prepared for the New Jerusalem. It will be a utopian society on earth as heaven comes down. We are not aiming for some eternal destiny in a far-off heaven. It's not some ethereal, spiritual state. We will be made fit for a social experience—a right and restored relationship with you, others, ourselves, and creation.

But it's not about the benefits. It's about you. That's the heart of the gospel. Knowing you. Lord Jesus, make that my desire above all else!