The Gospel Truth

Wednesday - January 13th

Devotionals from the Book of James

Scripture to Read Today: James 1:21-25

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You also were included in Christ when you heard

the message of truth, the Gospel of your salvation.

Ephesians 1:13a

While Lesli and I were watching a TV show recently, a character accused of a crime professed his innocence and gave his version of what happened. A law enforcement character pushed back on the accused's story. Continuing to proclaim his innocence, the accused forcefully said, "That's the Gospel truth!"

One person uses this common expression to convince another person they are telling the truth. The roots of this expression come from the core of Christianity - the Gospel. The phrase has become commonly used by non-Christians as well as Christians. The expression is used to say something is the core, simple, and straightforward truth. It removes any complications. It is the truth reduced to its simplest form.

James reminds us in James 1:21 that it is the Word of God that saves us. In Greek, the word for Gospel means the "good word" or "good message." That good word or message centers on how all people are sinners and that Jesus came to offer us the free gift of salvation in His death, burial, and resurrection. Paul told the church at Ephesus in Ephesians 1:13 that they were included in Christ when they heard the message of truth, the Gospel of their salvation. That is the real "Gospel Truth" from which the common expression comes.

Is "The Gospel Truth" something more in your life than merely an expression to persuade others? Have you come to faith in the person and work of Jesus? If you haven't, let today be the day you embrace the Gospel!

When we receive the Gospel found in God’s Word, it provides not only for our eternal salvation but also for our spiritual transformation. If you have embraced the Gospel, are you letting the Word of God transform your life? Do you embrace the Word of God and what it teaches you?

The Gospel Truth saves and transforms us. The Gospel Truth is rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ!