KNOWN FOR THE GOOD NEWS
Nichol DeGroot
Today’s Scripture: Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you” Acts 13:38, ESV
Theme: Christ followers should be known for what we are for—the “Good News” of forgiveness through Jesus—and not for what we are against.
If someone who didn't know Jesus was asked to describe Christians, what would they say we're known for? Would they say we're known for what we're against? Do you think they might say we're known for the hope we have in Jesus?
In Acts 13, Paul stood before a crowd and proclaimed the greatest news the world has ever heard, not a list of rules or a catalog of people's failures, but the message that forgiveness of sins is available through Jesus Christ. Notice what Paul emphasized. He didn't ignore sin, but he didn't stop there. His focus was on the solution God already provided. Through Jesus, forgiveness is offered freely to everyone who believes.
As followers of Christ, we are called to offer forgiveness also. Broken people are ususally already aware that they are broken. People carrying guilt, shame, regret, and the weight of mistakes they wish they could erase. They desperately need someone to tell them there is hope. Jesus came to forgive, restore, and make all things new.
Sharing the Good News doesn't compromise the truth. Rather, truth and grace go hand in hand. Our message isn't simply, "Here's what's wrong." Our message is, "Here's the Savior who can make you right with God." Today, consider what your life and words communicate. When people interact with you, do they leave knowing about what you're against, or do they leave having experienced the incredible love and forgiveness found in Jesus?
May we be people who are known not merely for our convictions, but for proclaiming the Good News that through Jesus Christ. Forgiveness is available to all.
Make It Personal: This week, intentionally communicate what you wish to be known for. If this is a big shift for you, that’s okay. Before each conversation, silently pray, "Lord, let my words attract people to You." Look for one opportunity to encourage someone with the hope and forgiveness found in Jesus. It doesn't have to be a long conversation, it could be a kind word, sharing your testimony, offering to pray with someone, or reminding a friend that God's grace is greater than whatever they are struggling to overcome.
At the end of each day, ask yourself:
"Did the people I encountered today leave knowing more about my opinions, or more about my Savior?"
That's a simple question that can reshape the way we represent Christ every day.
Pray: Lord, help us reflect Your heart of compassion and forgiveness today. Let our words and actions point people to the hope of the gospel. Help us be known for sharing the Good News of forgiveness through Jesus rather than simply pointing out what's wrong. Thank You for forgiving us and giving us the privilege of sharing that same hope with others. Amen.
Read: Proverbs 18:21; Proverbs 13:3; Ephesians 4:29; Isaiah 55:11
Weekly Memory Verse: For the one who is not against us is for us.” Mark 9:40, ESV