The power of the Gospel

For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Ghost, an in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were amoung you for your sakes. I Thessalonias 1:5 KJV

Bro. Chad Johnson

The word gospel means good news. There is much talk in most churches about the gospel. Some have added things like baptism and keeping the law to the gospel.

We can plainly see in I Corinthians 15:14 that the gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul said in verse one, “I declare unto you the gospel.” He never once mentioned baptismal regeneration or keeping of the law. our text verse says first that the gospel came not in word only. Now the word of God is the seed that must be sown in the heart of man to bring about a new birth. However, unless it comes in power and in the presence of the Holy Ghost, it will be in vain.

We learn this also from the parable of the sowers. The power here is not about the one who preaches it. Some preachers think that is about the loudness and forceful way in which they preach. This is a false thinking. The power and assurance that was shown forth in Paul’s preaching came from God.

Unless God honors the gospel that is preached with his power, it will fall on deaf ears. I believe we have churches full of lost people because man centered methods have been used to trouble the water that God is not troubling. As we preach, let us remember it is God that gives the increase. Amen!

For pulpit supply or Bible conferences write to:

Bro. Chad Johnson

897 Sycamore-Duncan Rd.

Auburn, KY 42206