What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?
1) The Gospel (The Good News)
The word “gospel” means good news. But to really understand why it’s good news, we first have to understand the problem—this is what we talked about and began to unpack during the last session.
The Bible teaches that everyone has sinned. This means we have all fallen short of God’s perfect standard—through our thoughts, actions, and choices. Because God is holy and perfect, sin separates us from Him. The result of that separation is spiritual death, meaning we are cut off from the life and relationship God created us for.
In the Old Testament, God gave His people a system of sacrifices. Animals were offered as a way to temporarily cover sin. But these sacrifices were never meant to be the final solution—they were pointing forward to something greater.
That’s where Jesus comes in.
Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life.
He died on the cross in our place.
He took the punishment for our sin.
He rose again, defeating sin and death.
Jesus became the final and perfect sacrifice. He did what we could never do for ourselves.
Because of this, anyone who believes in Him—who trusts in what He has done—can be forgiven, restored, and have a real relationship with God.
So the good news is this:
We were separated from God, but through Jesus, a way has been made for us to come back to Him.
That is the gospel.
Reflection
How would you explain the gospel to someone who had never heard it before?
What part of the gospel is most meaningful to you today?
2) Why Sharing the Gospel Matters
The gospel is not just good news for us—it’s good news for everyone.
Jesus calls us to share this message with others so they can also experience forgiveness, hope, and a relationship with God. Many people are searching for meaning, healing, and peace, and the gospel speaks directly to those needs.
Sharing the gospel doesn’t mean having all the answers; it simply means:
Telling others what Jesus has done.
Sharing your story and what God has done in your life.
Showing love, kindness, and truth.
When we share the gospel, we are offering others the same hope that has been given to us.
Reflection
What fears or concerns do you have about sharing your faith?
How can your actions reflect the love of Jesus this week?
3) God's Promises
God Promises That the Gospel Has Power
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes..."
— Romans 1:16 (NIV)
God Promises to Be With Us
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
— Matthew 28:20 (NIV)
God Promises That His Word Will Accomplish His Purpose
"So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."
— Isaiah 55:11 (NIV)
God Promises to Make Us His Witnesses
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses..."
— Acts 1:8 (NIV)
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the incredible gift of the gospel and for making a way for us to know You through Jesus Christ. Thank You for forgiving our sins, restoring our relationship with You, and giving us the hope of eternal life.
Help me never to lose sight of how life-changing this good news truly is. Fill me with compassion for those who do not yet know You, and give me the courage to share Your love with kindness, humility, and truth. Let my words, my actions, and my life point others toward Jesus. Empower me through Your Holy Spirit to be a faithful witness wherever You place me.
May I continue to grow in my understanding of the gospel and live each day with gratitude for all that You have done for me.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
