Category Archives: gospel

no other gospel

Galatians 1:1-10.  You have probably never thought to yourself, “man, I wish I could be circumcised.” So you might be wondering if the message of Galatians is as important today as it was when Paul and the brothers wrote it. … Continue reading

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aiming for restoration

2 Corinthians 12:14-13:14.  Paul had visited Corinth two times: once to plant churches there, and then for a “painful visit” in which he had to make judgments and set right wrong behavior.  He is planning a third visit, and wants … Continue reading

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outside the box

1 Corinthians 9.  Paul’s critics in Corinth were convinced that he was a loose cannon.  Since he did not do his ministry the way the other apostles did,  they were suggesting that his missionary work was illegitimate.  Paul’s policy was … Continue reading

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a wisdom ahead of its time

1 Corinthians 2.  When Paul first shared the gospel with the Corinthians, he avoided demonstrating his considerable skill in Greek rhetoric, and he also avoided showing off his profound wisdom. He kept his message simple, and trusting God to make … Continue reading

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friends that help, friends that hinder

Romans 16.  In this final chapter of Romans, Paul puts flesh on the practical principles that he had been teaching in the letter. He does this by greeting and showing appreciation to his friends and fellow Christian workers who are … Continue reading

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the gospel in prepositions

Romans 5:1-11.  Christ died FOR us when we were ungodly sinners (6-8).  We were justified BY his blood — that is — his death on the cross, and will be saved completely BY his resurrected life (1,2,9,10). Our current standing … Continue reading

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the means of salvation

Romans 3:21-31.  Right standing with God is not bought by means of being part of any ethnic group — not even those who were given the Mosaic law.  It is a gift that God has given to those who have … Continue reading

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message empowered mission

Romans 1:1-17.  A few years ago, when preaching on this passage, I used the following outline:  1. The Gospel has the answer for every person. 2. Faith is the means of receiving this power. 3. The message must be effectively … Continue reading

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