May 19, 2017
Dear Rose,

For Christ suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God... - 1 Peter 3:18

Most people know that 'gospel' means 'good news,' but what makes it so good? Some might say, "It is good because we don't have to go to hell," or "it's good because we get to go to heaven!" Others might say, "It is good because this means that God in Christ will reign justly over the earth" or the "curse will be lifted off of creation!" or "we are forgiven our sins and Christ's righteousness is imputed to us!" All of these things are true and wonderful; but the best part of the good news is that we are brought back into relationship with God, our Father.

God is the best news of the gospel. In fact, if you take God out of the equation, then all of these wonderful things cease to be wonderful. This is not only true when considering the glories of the New Heavens and the New Earth; it is also true now as we wait for Christ's return. This fallen world has many things about it that are good (though tainted by sin): family, friends, fulfilling work, starry skies, and sunsets; but we will not enjoy these things the way we are supposed to, if we are not enjoying them with God, who is our supreme treasure.

By Grace,

Pastor Andrew
Jn. 17.3