Do We Say "Gospel" or "Good News"?
A sharp journalist recently said, “Luis, you’ve always been adamant about calling the Gospel the Good News. Why is that phrasing so important to you?”
I replied, “Because other than journalists, people like good news.”
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is Good News. The point of our message is basic. It’s the same message the angel carried to the shepherds: “I bring you good news of great joy that shall be to all people” [Luke 2:10].
In English, the word “gospel” means nothing to most people. But “good news” does. In general, Christians have spoiled some of our power by communicating messages in insider theological terms.
Now, I am an avid student of theology. It’s vital. But why separate everyday people from the simplicity of Jesus? Why make saying yes to His invitation any harder than it needs to be? A good ambassador speaks a common language with those to whom they are sent.
Romans 1 impressed me ages ago. There Paul talks about the good news from God the Father about His Son, Jesus. I love that.
It’s good news on our conscience, because sins are forgiven. It’s good news in relationships because we love other people. And it’s good news because we know we’re going to heaven when we die.
Believe me, most people won’t react badly if you say, “Hey! I have good news for you.” Try it!
“It’s good news on our conscience, because sins are forgiven. It’s good news in relationships because we love other people. And it’s good news because we know we’re going to heaven when we die.”
Romans 1:3-4
“The good news is about God’s Son. He was born into the family line of King David. By the Holy Spirit, he was appointed to be the mighty Son of God. God did this by raising him from the dead. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.”