The Gospel is for All

Steven’s Scribbles
“The Gospel is for All” 
1 John 2:1-3

    One of my favorite songs is “The Gospel is for All.” This was a novel concept to the first century Christians, especially in the early days of the church. They were so used to the Jews being “God’s chosen people,” they had a hard time conceptualizing that the Gentiles were able to be saved. Acts 15 records, what we refer to, as the “Counsel of Jerusalem.” This is where the apostles and the elders came together to discuss the conversion of gentiles, which was first recorded in Acts 10, and how it should be addressed going forward. They even wrote a letter to the brethren concerning it (Acts 15:22-29). While the majority of the Old Testament was written to Israelites, they shouldn’t have been surprised by the Gospel going to “all the Nations.” “That they may possess the remnant of Edom and all the nations who are called by My name” (Amos 9:12). “It will come about after this that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind” (Joel 2:28). “Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together” (Is. 40:5). The Old Testament Scriptures are replete with prophecy concerning all of mankind having abundant access to God. Indeed, the blessed Gospel is for all. We have to make sure we go forth, to all nations, and preach what it takes to be a child of God (Matt. 28:18-20; Gal. 3:23-29). 


In His service,
Steven Hugley