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Acts 14:21-22 After preaching the Good News in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia, where they strengthened the believers.
Interestingly, the word “Christianity” is rarely used in the New Testament. There’s a brief mention of people being referred to as Christians, but in the majority of cases those who adhered to Jesus’ teachings were simply known as His disciples or followers. When His disciples did share the message of Jesus with others, they often referred to it as “Good News.”
Today, some modern translations of the Bible translate the Greek word used for Good News as “Gospel.” Yet it’s clear in the text that every time this term is used, the person sharing the Gospel with somebody is sharing it in such a way that it is Good News.
Christians today may miss out on opportunities to share our beliefs with others when we share the Gospel in such a way that it is not received as Good News. The message of Jesus is indeed good, and we it ought to shared as such.
READING & PRAYERS:
ACTS 8:4-13, 14:21-22 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What is it about the Gospel that first drew you to come closer to Jesus and ultimately place your faith in Him? In what ways did you hear and understand the Gospel as “Good News?”
DIGGING DEEPER: When you share the Gospel with others, how consistently do you share it as “Good News?”
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess there are times when I haven’t shared the Gospel as “Good News.” Continue to help me grow into somebody who experiences Your love and grace so deeply that when I share of it with others, they will see, hear, and know that the Gospel really is “Good News.” I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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