The Whole Gospel

1 Thessalonians 1:5
For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.

Paul notes four distinct and important values in effectively sharing the Gospel. The Gospel must be shared in word, by nature it is a verbal message. Throughout the New Testament we find the Gospel in dialogue. This means the Gospel is an interactive, verbal message. While a picture is worth 1000 words, we cannot choose which words; 1000 choice words are priceless. Second, the Gospel must be shared in power and authority that only comes by the Word of God - the Scriptures. Paul reasoned with the Thessalonians from the Prophets (Acts 17). God's Word is powerful and effective and will not return void, it will accomplish what it was sent out to do (Isa. 55:11, Heb. 4:12). Our words cannot be our own, they must be the vary words of God which alone have the power to change hearts and minds and lives. Third, it must be shared in the power of the Holy Spirit and His leading within both the sharer and the hearer. Apart from the conviction of the Holy Spirit and His compelling call there is no salvation (John 16:7-15). Finally, the Gospel must be shared in deed - in lives that are consistent with the message we proclaim. By our deeds our message is validated and assurance is found by both the sharer and the listener. The message is strengthened when it is married to good deeds and moral lives that are above reproach. When our proclamation reflects all this we can be sure and secure, knowing that we have done our part. Does the Gospel message I proclaim reflect all this? Do I proclaim in word and Scripture and Spirit and deed?

Father - may the Gospel I proclaim reflect these values and consistently point to You in every way. Make me diligent to make my Gospel message complete. Open my eyes to how and when I may share it each day and make me bold to share. Amen.