Episode 281: “[God] has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” (2 Timothy 1:9–10, NIV84)

It is still “through the gospel” that we come to know the life and immortality of Christ today. It is still “through the gospel” that we gain access to the promise, body, and inheritance today (Ephesians 3.6). We must believe, accept, and obey “the gospel of your salvation” (1.13) to be incorporated into Christ Jesus. As Christians, we need to value the gospel. In order for the gospel to impact our lives, we must value it as revelation from God. Think of the parable Jesus told about the pearl of great price (Matthew 13.44-46). We have that which is of ultimate value. The gospel was all Paul had. The gospel is all we have. We must pay attention to, be defined by, and solve our problems with the gospel.

The gospel is not merely about getting to heaven; it is about life here and now as well as over yonder. It captures our initial conversion and our daily walk as disciples. It touches on our forgiveness and how we ought to forgive others. It speaks to God’s unfathomable love for us and how we ought to love one another. With so many implications upon life right now, it is no wonder Paul calls it “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3.8). And then we gather with the saints once or twice a week and think we’ve got it? No! We only start unwrapping the gift here; you take it home and finish the job the rest of the week.

Question of the Day: Are Mormons Christians?