The gospel is the good news of God's salvation for man. It answers the question "How can a just God accept unworthy sinners?"
Because of Adam and Eve's first sin in the Garden of Eden, sin entered the world and tainted God's perfect creation. One of the primary effects of this disobedience is that all of mankind is now spiritually dead (Eph. 2.1), an enemy of God (Rom. 5.10), and a slave to sin (Rom. 6.17). Because God is holy and just, He must punish sin. Therefore, everyone is deserving of eternal punishment for transgressing God's law and is without excuse.
However, God, being rich in mercy, made a way for man to have salvation. God the Father sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, into the world as an atoning sacrifice, thereby appeasing God's holy wrath and allowing God to forgive while maintaining His justice. Thus, whoever believes in Christ and accepts God's grace through faith as the only means of salvation will inherit eternal life. Salvation is not based on works, then, but on faith; not on us, but on God.
Accepting salvation is a matter of repenting of your sins and believing in God, as He is revealed in the Bible. The result of salvation is a new nature that loves God and hates sin. Sanctification is a process, but a Christian will consistently bear fruit respective to his/her nature.
If you have any questions about the gospel, please feel free to contact me:
ccodycurtis@gmail.com
