The Big Gospel

 

And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:35-28 ESV).

 

Yesterday we a series surrounding the “bigness” of God. Today, we will look at the first word describing God’s big mission: Gospel. “Gospel” is the Old English translation of the Koine Greek term εὐαγγέλιον (euangélion), meaning "good news". The definition that I think captures just how big and amazing this good news is: “The gospel is the good news of God’s reign, grace, and love in and through Christ for the redemption and renewal of all things.” This definition shapes everything we should be doing in the mission field God has given to each of us. I like Pratney’s quote in the attached meme: Every Christian is a missionary; every non-Christian is a mission-field. The Gospel is meant for everyone.

 

We see this definition at work here in our reading. Jesus announces and proclaims the good news that God’s kingdom has arrived—our God reigns! This good news is not just an announcement; it comes with a powerful demonstration of this life-changing message. Filled with compassion and love, Jesus heals people of “every disease and sickness.” What’s more, Jesus longs to see his team multiply and bring this good news to a world that is desperate for hope and love.

 

In a day when good news is hard to find, there is no better news than the good news of Jesus. There is no better calling than to share this good news with others. “The harvest is plentiful” … we can be the laborers to go into that harvest! (v. 37).