The Gospel in 5 Seconds
TEXT: 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Introduction: “The Gospel in 5 Seconds” does not address time, but things that are “second” in sequence, or in line, connected with the gospel.
The Gospel is the “good news” that Christ died for our sins and was raised for our justification.
The gospel is the complete story of God’s power, love and desire that all who hear it, believe and obey it will have everlasting life.
Discussion:
The gospel is contained in a “Second Covenant.” Cf. Heb. 8:6-13; 10:9. John 1:17 says, “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” This second law is that which saves us eternally. Cf. Matt. 5:17; Col. 2:14; Gal. 3:19; Gal. 6:2.
The gospel commands a “Second Birth.” Jesus told Nicodemus: “...except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Question: How are we born again? ANSWER: John 3:5, “...born of water and the spirit…” The second birth involves baptism for the remission of sins (Cf. Acts 2:38; 1 Pet. 1:22-23; 3:20-21).
The gospel promises a “Second Coming” of Christ. Heb. 9:28 says, “...He will appear a second time…” There is much speculation on when Christ will return and what will happen when He does. Cf. Mark 13:32; 1 Thess. 4:13-18. Christ’s return is true (Acts 17:31). Our responsibility is to prepare for His return (Matt. 24:44).
The gospel warns of a “Second Death.” To be born once is to die twice. To be born twice is to die once. Physical death is separation of body & soul (Jam. 2:26). Second death involves separation of a person’s soul from God forever (2 Thess. 1:9; Rev. 20:14). However, the second death has no power over those that have experienced the first resurrection (Rev. 20:6; Rom. 6:3-4).
The gospel contains a “Second Law of Pardon.” To the rebellious Jonah, the word of the Lord came “...the second time…” (Jonah 3:1). The Lord gave weak and denying Peter a second chance. The Prodigal Son received the Father’s mercy and forgiveness, even though he had willfully disobeyed. Peter told Simon, “your heart is not right in the sight of God” (Acts 8:21). Simon was further told to repent and pray to God for forgiveness.
Conclusion: We live under a second law and can experience the second birth; living in hopeful expectation of the second coming of Christ while avoiding the second death and always knowing there is a second chance as long as we live.
(From Mark N Posey)