In what ways can we share the gospel as "promised beforehand" with others? The Gospel Promised Beforehand • Romans 1:2 – “which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures” • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures … He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” • Luke 24:27 – “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself.” Why the “Promise” Theme Matters When We Share • It roots the message in God’s reliability; He keeps His word. • It shows the unity of the Bible: one story from Genesis to Revelation. • It answers skepticism that the gospel was a late invention. • It invites listeners to examine prophecy and fulfillment for themselves. Practical Ways to Share the ‘Promised Beforehand’ Gospel • Begin in Genesis 12:3—God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham—and trace that blessing to Jesus. • Walk a friend through Isaiah 53; then read any New Testament passion account side-by-side. • Create a simple “prophecy/fulfillment” chart (handwritten or digital) and give it away. • When discussing current events, pivot to God’s long-range plan revealed in Scripture (e.g., Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews 8:8-13). • Offer to read a Gospel with someone, highlighting Old Testament quotations in the margins. • Use holidays: at Christmas point to Micah 5:2; at Easter to Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53. • Invite skeptics to investigate messianic prophecies as historical evidence, not just religious claims. Key Prophecies Worth Highlighting • Genesis 3:15 – first hint of the Savior who will crush the serpent. • Genesis 22:8 – “God Himself will provide the lamb.” • Psalm 22:16-18 – “They have pierced my hands and feet … They divide my garments among them.” • Isaiah 7:14 – virgin birth promise. • Isaiah 9:6-7 – the divine-human Child who will reign forever. • Isaiah 53:5 – “He was pierced for our transgressions … by His stripes we are healed.” • Micah 5:2 – birthplace in Bethlehem. • Zechariah 9:9 – King riding on a donkey. • Jeremiah 31:31 – the new covenant. Everyday Conversation Starters • “When you read history, do you ever see anything predicted centuries in advance and fulfilled exactly?” • “Have you noticed that Christmas carols quote ancient Hebrew prophets?” • “What do you make of Isaiah 53 describing crucifixion 700 years early?” • “Did you know the resurrection was foreshadowed in Psalm 16:10?” Living Proof: Fulfillment Seen in Us • Our transformed lives echo Ezekiel 36:26—new hearts and new spirits. • The Spirit’s presence (Acts 2:16-17) shows God’s promise now active. • Love across cultures in the church embodies Genesis 12:3’s blessing to “all peoples.” • Personal testimonies link ancient promise to present reality: “What He foretold, He did in me.” |
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