Lesson 1 of the Gospel teaches us that Christianity is not just a set of beliefs, but a living relationship with Jesus Christ, who is the center of our faith. To truly understand the Good News, we must first recognize our sinful condition and our need for salvation. Only through God's grace and the redemptive work of Jesus can we be reconciled with Him, receive new life, and live with purpose, joy, and eternal hope.

faith begins with Jesus

  • Christianity is not just a philosophy or moral code — it's about a person: Jesus Christ.

  • John 14:6 – Jesus is the only way to the Father. He is the way, the truth, and the life.

  • Emphasize: Knowing about Christianity is not the same as knowing Christ.

Knowing Christ

  • The Gospel centers on Philippians 2:11 — “Jesus Christ is Lord.”

  • Why is He Lord? Because of His incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and His return.

  • Acts 2:38 – Faith in Christ leads to repentance, baptism, forgiveness, and the Holy Spirit.

Lordship Must Be Declared

  • John 20:28 – Thomas calls Jesus “My Lord and My God.”

  • A Christian believes, repents, is baptized, and surrenders fully.

  • If Jesus is not Lord and God, then our faith is not real — it’s fantasy.

Making a Commitment to Jesus

Encourage 4 key steps:

  1. Confess your sins (specifically and honestly).

  2. Receive God’s mercy with thanksgiving.

  3. Declare Jesus is Lord and commit to follow Him.

  4. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s help to remain faithful.

Once committed:

  • Connect with a pastor.

  • Join a church community — “God doesn’t have orphans.”

  • Be baptized (if not already) — baptism strengthens the commitment.

Understanding the Bad News: Sin

  • You can’t preach the good news without starting with the bad news.

  • Romans 3:23 – “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

  • Sin separates us from:

    • God

    • Our neighbor

    • Creation

    • Ourselves

The Human Condition

  • God created man good (Genesis 1).

  • Man chose sin, resulting in:

    • Guilt → Shame → Death

    • A broken relationship with God

  • Isaiah 59:2 – “Your sins have separated you from God.”

  • Ephesians 2:1 – “You were dead in your trespasses.”