The Gospel

The very first verse of the Gospel of Mark says, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” This is the title of this gospel, but at the same time is an introduction to its theme. (1) “Gospel” means “good news.” (2) The gospel has existed even before the earthly appearance of Jesus Christ. What the prophets of the Old Testament spoke about was the message of the gospel itself. Going back further in time, Abraham also heard the gospel. Moreover, if we trace it all the way back, Adam also heard the gospel in the Garden of Eden. This is seen in Genesis 3:15: “And I will make enemies of you and the woman, and of your offspring and her descendant; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise Him on the heel.” (3) Ultimately, the message of the gospel has existed in the heart of God even before the creation of heaven and earth. However, the full revelation of this gospel came through the events of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. The gospel is the “mystery that has now been manifested.” Today, the fullness of the gospel is revealed to us, which is solely by the grace of God. (4) Mark is about to begin this gospel with the appearance of John the Baptist, which is indeed, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior? Remember how wonderful that is and let’s give thanks to our God the Father.

The Son of God

This gospel is about the Son of God, Jesus Christ. (1) “Son of God” signifies that Jesus is the one who shares the same nature and glory as God the Father. (2) Matthew begins his gospel with the opening statement, “The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham,” putting the focus on Jesus’ humanity. In contrast, Mark starts with Jesus’ divinity. (3) Jesus who is both fully human and fully divine, loved us, got on the cross for us, and rose on the third day. Let’s continue to be thankful again today, that we are made alive by the gospel. Let’s pray to God, asking Him to send us those who seek salvation.