The gospel is the power of God for salvation, and, sadly, many churches are ashamed of proclaiming it (Rom. 1:16). As a result, we may not be experiencing the fruit of transformation (Col. 1:4-6; 2 Peter 1:3-9). Gospel transformation is most often found in the company of gospel proclamation. The gospel can be (cautiously) summarized in the following manner:

God sent His Son, Jesus Christ to live our life, die our death and rise again triumphantly to bring forgiven sinners together by the Holy Spirit to live as his Kingdom people under his gracious reign.

The focus of the gospel is not on the inadequacy of mankind (including the transformation), but rather on the glory of God. I am transformed when I live in line with the gospel (Gal. 2:14)—avoiding both legalism and licentiousness—and pursuing the joy found in complete and utter surrender of my unrighteous life in exchange for His righteous life expressed graciously through every aspect of my Christian walk (Gal. 2:20). The gospel is what makes us right with God (justification) and it is also what frees us to delight in God (sanctification). The gospel changes everything. ... The grace of God extends down to us, not because we deserve it, but even as we do not deserve it (Rom 5:8). Our works, even attempts at good works are not adequate to contribute to our salvation or sanctification. Once the Spirit regenerates our dead souls, we by faith receive the completed work of Jesus who accomplishes our justification—a declaration of His righteousness on us. As His grace continues to work in our lives, the gospel comes to fruition (Col. 1:6; 2 Peter 1-3-9) in every aspect of our life. Pastor Scott is the president and director of Acts 29. This post is excerpted from the Acts 29 blog.