Scripture Reading: Isaiah 52:7

Introduction

A. Sometimes we just don’t know good news when we hear it.

B. Many don’t see the gospel as good news on first acquaintance with it, but there is no greater news that has ever been told.

Discussion

I. The gospel has the power to make both friends and enemies.

A. The gospel truly is good news (1 Corinthians 15:3–5).

B. The gospel has been an extraordinary catalyst for peace (Ephesians 2:14–18; Galatians 3:28–29; Philippians 4:6–7).

C. The only thing more extraordinary than the gospel’s ability to make peace is its power to offend (Matthew 10:22, 34).

II. Good news is not always welcome.

A. David did not welcome good news regarding the battle for his kingdom (2 Samuel 18:19–33).

B. The gospel of Christ was not always welcome in Paul’s experience (Acts 13:44–45; 14:11–20).

C. The gospel is not always welcome today either, as it insists that we accept responsibility for our sins (Acts 2:36) and bring our lives into conformity with God’s will (Romans 12:1).

Conclusion

A. If you are lost today, the good news is that you don’t have to stay in that condition (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:8; 1 Peter 4:17).

B. The gospel of Christ may be foolishness to the world, but to us who are saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18)!