THOUGHTFUL THINGS
The Whole Gospel to the Whole World
The heart of the Great Commission is found in the words of Jesus Christ: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:1920, KJV). This command is not limited to a certain group of people, nor is it confi ned to one culture or nation. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a universal message meant for every man, woman, and child across the face of the earth.
The word “gospel” means “good news.” The good news is that through Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, we have forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Paul reminds us of the very foundation of this gospel when he writes, “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4, KJV). This simple yet powerful truth is the heartbeat of our mission.
Jesus declared, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14, KJV). The gospel is not meant to be hidden or reserved for a few; it is a light that must shine in every dark place, a message that must reach every ear. From the crowded cities to the most remote villages, God’s desire is that all would hear and believe. “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4, KJV).
When the people heard Peter preach this gospel on the Day of Pentecost, they were convicted and asked, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37, KJV). The answer he gave was clear and life- changing: “ Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38, KJV). This was not only the fulfillment of Christ’s command but also the demonstration of how the gospel is applied to our lives—through repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.
As believers, we are called to be the messengers. The Lord has entrusted us with the responsibility to share His Word, whether across the street or across the ocean. Paul wrote, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16, KJV). The gospel is not powerless, nor is it outdated. It is still transforming lives, breaking chains, and bringing hope to the hopeless.
Our part is simple: to go, to speak, and to live the message of Christ. The whole gospel must go to the whole world, and it begins with us being willing vessels. May we carry this good news with boldness and love, knowing that every soul is precious in the sight of God.
We invite you to visit us at The Family Church, 9456 Hwy 146 N, Hardin, TX. You can also watch our services live via Facebook at @tfchardin.