What Is the Gospel?
If you're exploring Christianity or seeking to better understand your own faith, there's no more important question than this: What is the gospel?
For many, the gospel has been reduced to a simple formula: Jesus died for your sins so you can go to heaven. While that’s true, it’s actually just a part of the much bigger story the Bible tells. If that’s the whole message, then why was Jesus preaching the gospel before He ever went to the cross? And why did the early church place so much emphasis on the resurrection and the kingdom of God?
Let’s rewind a bit.
The Gospel According to Jesus
Mark 1:14–15 tells us:
“Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.’”
Wait—Jesus is preaching the gospel before His death and resurrection? What does that mean?
According to Jesus, the gospel—the good news—is that the kingdom of God is near. It’s not just about forgiveness. It’s about a king coming to set everything right.
Good News… Like a King Has Been Born
In Jesus' world, the word "gospel" (Greek: euangelion) wasn’t just religious—it was political. It was used to announce the birth of a new ruler or a major military victory. It was news that changed everything. So when Jesus and His followers declared the gospel, they were saying something massive: A new King has come. His name is Jesus. And He is bringing God's reign to earth.
This makes sense of Jesus’s birth (a royal announcement), His life (demonstrating what God’s kingdom looks like), His death (a seeming defeat), and His resurrection (the ultimate victory). The gospel isn’t just about how we get to heaven—it’s about heaven coming to earth through Jesus.
So What Is the Gospel, Really?
Here’s a fuller picture:
The gospel is the good news that the long-awaited King has come. His name is Jesus. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He is making everything right—starting with us.
This good news means forgiveness for the past, transformation in the present, and hope for the future. And if that’s true, then it changes everything.
Your Next Step
Jesus’s invitation is simple and profound:
“The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe the good news.” (Mark 1:15)
To repent means to turn around—to stop living your own way and start following the King. When you do, you’re welcomed home, forgiven, restored, and given a new purpose: to be part of God’s kingdom work in the world.
If you’re ready to respond to that invitation, or you simply want to explore further, we’d love to walk with you. Reach out, ask your questions, or let us know if you've taken that step. There’s a whole family of faith ready to welcome you home.
