The Power of the Gospel

Psalms 19:7; Romans 1:16

David said the “Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” What an amazing statement that is accompanied with a major truth. That truth is God changes lives! If you read a couple of verses down David also said that the “Fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever.” The Law of God had the power to change a life because it had a way of inciting a good wholesome fear. The Law was given to accomplish two important things in salvation history. First, it showed how holy and perfect God is. Second, it showed just how easily depraved man is. It brought a dividing line between God and man who was made in his image. It is a marred image, but nevertheless there is still some likeness. But yet, the Law is able to convert the soul and help restore that image once again into the likeness of God. How does this work? None other than through Jesus Christ!

Two things were said in the New Testament about the Law and Jesus. Paul said in Galatians the the “Law was a schoolmaster bringing us to Christ.” (Galatians 3:24) A schoolmaster in Biblical times was what we call a tutor in modern times. In other words, the Law was to teach Israel of their total depravity and lead them to a total dependency upon the grace of God revealed in Jesus Christ, the savior of the world. The second thing is that Christ came not to destroy the Law but to fulfill it. (Matthew 5:17) Paul once again said the “Christ is the end of the Law concerning righteousness to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4) He is saying that the righteousness of God was not only revealed in Christ, but also fulfilled in Christ.

Because of Gods great work of redemption in Jesus Christ the divide between God and man that was revealed in the Law, had been joined together by the bridge of Jesus Christ. The Law converted through fear, but Christ converts through faith by way of Gods divine favor. The Gospel has the power to change a life. And because of that the Gospel has the power to change the world. Finally, Paul wrote once again that the Gospel is “The power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes…” (Romans 1:16) This is the good news in a world full of evil, pain, and suffering. That’s why it is important for the Gospel to be proclaimed. Tell someone today about the power and love of Jesus Christ to change their life. By doing so the world can get a little better, one converted soul at a time.

Pastor Robby