Studies regarding the central message of Scripture—The Gospel. This section explores the definition of the “Good News” and the vital distinction between the “Gospel of the Kingdom” preached by Jesus and the Twelve, and the “Gospel of the Grace of God” revealed to Paul for the present Church Age (Acts 20:24; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
The Ethiopians, represented in the New Testament by the Ethiopian eunuch, were among the first African people to embrace Christianity. Through Philip’s divine encounter in Acts 8, the Gospel reached Ethiopia, demonstrating that God’s salvation is for all nations, including Africa.
The Egyptians, one of history’s most influential peoples, played a key role in both the Old and New Testaments. From Jesus’ refuge in Egypt to the spread of Christianity in Alexandria, Egypt became a vital part of God’s redemptive plan, demonstrating that salvation is for all nations.
The Syrians, a historically significant people in the New Testament world, played a major role in the early spread of Christianity. Through Jesus’ interactions with Syrian seekers, Paul’s dramatic conversion in Damascus, and the establishment of the church in Antioch, the Gospel expanded beyond Israel, proving that salvation is for all nations.
The Gentiles, once seen as outsiders to God’s promises, were brought into His kingdom through Christ. The New Testament reveals how God’s grace extends beyond Israel, fulfilling the prophecy that all nations would worship Him.
The Greeks profoundly shaped the world of the New Testament through their language, philosophy, and cultural influence, impacting both Judaism and early Christianity. While many Greeks resisted the Gospel due to intellectual pride, others, like those in Athens, Corinth, and Philippi, embraced Christ, proving that true wisdom comes from God, not human reasoning.
The Romans were the dominant force during Jesus’ time, shaping New Testament history through their governance, military power, and persecution of Christians. Yet, despite their opposition, God used Rome to spread the Gospel, proving that even the mightiest empires serve His divine plan.
Jesus declared that He came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, bringing them to their ultimate purpose in God’s redemptive plan. His teaching challenges believers to honor Scripture, pursue true righteousness, and live in obedience to God as an act of worship.
The Sermon on the Mount presents the kingdom of heaven as a radical, counter-cultural way of life centered on righteousness, trust in God, and eternal priorities. Jesus calls His followers to live as kingdom citizens, embodying His values in anticipation of His future reign.
The Sermon on the Mount and the Sermon on the Plain contain similar teachings but serve distinct purposes, with Matthew emphasizing the righteousness required for the kingdom and Luke focusing on practical Christian ethics for a broader audience. While both sermons reveal kingdom principles, they reflect different theological emphases, aligning with each Gospel’s unique message.
Paul’s instruction from the risen Christ transformed him from a persecutor into Christianity’s greatest missionary, receiving divine revelation that shaped the core doctrines of the faith. His unwavering commitment to grace, justification by faith, and the Church’s unity calls believers to stand boldly for Christ today.
The story of the two thieves on the cross presents a powerful contrast between rejection and repentance. It reminds us that salvation is by grace through faith and that no one is beyond God’s mercy when they turn to Christ in faith.
King Agrippa II’s encounter with Paul highlights the tragedy of being “almost persuaded” but failing to respond to the gospel. His story is a powerful reminder of the urgency to embrace Christ without delay.
The doctrine of Substitutionary Atonement is at the heart of the Christian faith, affirming that Jesus Christ, as our substitute, bore the penalty of sin on our behalf. It is a doctrine deeply rooted in Scripture, revealing God’s justice, holiness, and love.
Salvation is God’s gracious work from eternity past to eternity future, securing believers through Christ’s atonement and the Spirit’s indwelling.
Sin is rebellion against God, affecting humanity and creation, yet Christ provides redemption and restoration. A biblical understanding of sin highlights our need for salvation and God’s gracious provision.