What Is The Gospel? | N.T. Wright Online

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding the Meaning of the Gospel

1. Introduction to the Word "Gospel":

   • The word "gospel" in Greek is "euangelion," which translates to "good news."
   • In the first century, the term "good news" was significant, especially in Roman culture where inscriptions would honor the emperor for bringing peace to the Roman world.

2. Historical Context:

   • The concept of "good news" was not only prevalent in Roman culture but also had roots in ancient Jewish scriptures, specifically in Isaiah chapters 40 and 52.

3. Jesus and the Good News:

   • When Jesus began his ministry, he proclaimed the arrival of the good news of the kingdom of God, echoing the prophetic words of Isaiah about the reign of the Creator God.

4. Misconceptions about the Gospel:

   • There is a common misconception that the gospel is solely about individuals going to heaven if they believe in Jesus, often misinterpreted from Romans 1:16-17.
   • However, the true essence of the gospel, as explained by Paul in Romans 1:3-4, revolves around Jesus being declared the Son of God through his resurrection and establishing his lordship on earth.

5. The Gospel Message:

   • The gospel is not just about personal salvation but about living under the lordship of Jesus, turning away from sin, and embodying the new creation that God is bringing about on earth.

6. Roots of the Gospel:

   • The gospel message has roots in the prophecies of Isaiah and also challenges the Roman imperial beliefs, where Caesar was considered the son of god, by proclaiming Jesus as the true Son of God.

7. Living Out the Gospel:

   • Embracing the gospel means being transformed by Jesus' message and living as examples of the new creation, showcasing the redemptive work of God in our daily lives.

8. Conclusion:

   • The gospel is not just a message but a new reality brought about by Jesus and energized by his spirit, inviting us to be active participants in God's plan of redemption and transformation of creation.

By following these steps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the true essence of the gospel message as explained in the video by N.T. Wright Online.