What other scriptures emphasize the importance of sharing the gospel message? Jesus’ Traveling Pulpit (Luke 8:1) “Soon afterward, Jesus traveled from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with Him.” (Luke 8:1) • Jesus models constant movement and continual proclamation. • The good news is verbal, public, courageous—and meant to spread. Echoes in the Gospels • Matthew 28:18-20 – “Go and make disciples of all nations … teaching them to obey…” • Mark 16:15 – “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” • Luke 24:47 – “Repentance for forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” • John 20:21 – “As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.” These parallel commands underline that Jesus never limited the gospel to one group or location. Acts: The Church Takes the Baton • Acts 1:8 – “You will be My witnesses … to the ends of the earth.” • Acts 8:4 – “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” • Acts 13:47 – “I have made you a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” Persecution, travel, and missionary journeys all serve God’s purpose of multiplying witnesses. Voices from the Epistles • Romans 1:16 – “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” • 1 Corinthians 9:16 – “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” • 2 Corinthians 5:20 – “We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us.” • Ephesians 6:19-20 – “That I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.” • Philippians 2:15-16 – “Shine as lights … as you hold forth the word of life.” • Colossians 1:28 – “We proclaim Him … so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” • 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” Each letter treats gospel proclamation as a non-negotiable duty for every believer, not just leaders. Old Testament Anticipation • Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the herald who brings good news.” • Psalm 96:2-3 – “Proclaim His salvation day after day. Declare His glory among the nations.” The call to spread God’s salvation predates the church age; it has always been God’s heartbeat. Putting It Into Practice Today • Follow Jesus’ example—look for “next towns and villages” in your own routine. • Trust the gospel’s power; Scripture declares it effective for salvation. • Speak boldly yet kindly, remembering you are Christ’s ambassador. • See spreading the gospel not as an optional task but as obedience to a clear biblical mandate. |
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