134. Gospel is about the kingdom's power.

The Gospel is not just about a King and his Kingdom but also about the kingdom's power to advance and overcome anything and everything. Paul who was called to be a 'servant of the Gospel' by commission (Colossians 1:23-25) says the reason he is not ashamed to preach it is because of its power. 'I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation of everyone who believes ...' (Romans 1:16) Therefore he said to the Thessalonians: "Our Gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction." (1 Thessalonians 1:5) The power of the Gospel is the Holy Spirit. What is substantiated with Scriptures has to be vindicated by the Spirit because 'the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.' (1 Corinthians 4:20) Therefore the 'Lord confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders.' (Acts 14:3) The Gospel is called the 'message of grace' because it is the message of God's power to save and deliver. When Paul pleaded with the Lord to take away the 'thorn in his flesh', the Lord said, "My GRACE is sufficient for you, for my POWER is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:8-9) POWER is therefore the synonym of GRACE. Wherever you read the word 'GRACE', substitute it with the word 'POWER', and the Gospel takes on a new dimension. Paul made it his life's mission to testify to this 'power'. "I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's 'power'." ( Acts 20:24) Are you ashamed of the Gospel? It is the most glorious message you will ever hear! It has the power to change your life and that of others. Every other news will be forgotten but the Gospel alone will shine in the light of eternity! Therefore, do not shy away from sharing this good news with others because 'those who impart wisdom will shine like the brightness of the heavens and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.' (Daniel 12:3) Let's make this our mission in life. Amen.