The Suitcase Gospel
Part of our Mission Statement here at UTMC is that we are “Equipping Believers.” That means we share the ongoing work of helping each other be ready to serve in Jesus’ Kingdom. That doesn’t mean that I (pastor Nate) equip everyone—though I have a responsibility to make sure that is happening around here. No, it’s not one person’s job, we all share the job of equipping the saints. You see, God wants all of us recognizing and growing in the spiritual gifts we have and then teaching and sharing those gifts with other believers to help them grow. Of course, we also use those gifts to serve and invite the lost back to God’s household. This week, though, is about equipping in an area we all must be taught in together—understanding the basics of the gospel message. This is just a part of the gospel story, but an important and helpful summary for us to carry around with us wherever we go, kind of like a suitcase.
Anchor Texts:
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 ESVUK - The Resurrection of Christ
Isaiah 53:3-12 ESVUK - He was despised and rejected by men
Questions to Ponder:
Why is the actual death and resurrection of Jesus so important? Can’t it just be a spiritual or symbolic event? (hint, look at 1 Cor 15:12-16)
Look at 1 Cor 15:1-2 - what does the gospel “do”? according to Paul? Now, is the gospel is capable of doing that (saving you) or does Jesus save you? How can the message save you?
How have you heard the gospel summarized before? Can you share that “summary”?
Paul says these things are of first importance, but what would you want to add as other key events of the gospel story? Why do you think Paul says these particular elements are of “first importance” compared to what you would add?
What do you think is the biggest hurdle the people in your life have in the way of believing the gospel as Paul states it here?
a. What are you going to do about that? (Hint - begin with prayer!)
The Theme in Song:
Here is a song that takes on a big challange - delcaring the gospel in song. Some people may want to debate whether every piece of gospel “content” is in the song, but that misses the point of the gospel. The gospel is the reality of Jesus’ life that changes ours and overflows now in a transformed life that we live in the power of Jesus and his Spirit. I think this song/video captures the story and the transformation just right!
The Theme in Art:
This painting is from 1290-1410AD and is an amazing reminder that the importance of the resurrection has not changed since the day it happened 2000 years ago. This 700 year old painting reminds us that there are so many Christians who have come before us who have been deeply transformed by the same gospel message that is proclaimed to us today.
Resurrection of Christ" ca. 1390-1410 Artist:, Andrea di Bartolo