Jesus Christ came into the world to redeem men from sin.
This was the opening quote yesterday and identifies the second gospel truth. We were all sold under sin and need to be redeemed.
Romans 7:14 English Standard Version (ESV) For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin.
Why did God allow this to happen?
Romans 8:20 English Standard Version (ESV) For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope.
What was God hoping for? If we were to read the rest of Romans 8 we would come to realize that God hoped that we would love Him in return for the love He offers us. Love is not love if it is not free to choose. “We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved.” These words from Romans 8 identifies us as sons and daughters of adoption by faith. Why can I say by faith? Because of His next words.
“Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
Hebrews 11:1 English Standard Version (ESV) Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
The gospel message is sown in the bible. The seed of hope is scattered throughout and needs to be gleaned to understand the full context of God’s plan and promise. Understanding the gospel message requires a comprehensive reading of all related passages and not just one liners.
John 3:16-17 English Standard Version
16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
This is simple but not the whole truth.