Devotion #4: The Power of The Gospel

At The River Church, the Gospel is at the core of our mission in reaching those who are lost. As Peter stood before the crowds at Pentecost, he boldly proclaimed the truth about Jesus Christ, including His divinity, His sacrificial death, and His triumphant resurrection. These verses serve as a powerful example of what it means to share the Gospel with clarity, conviction, and urgency. 

Acts 2:22–24 says, “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know - this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it.” 

Peter’s sermon was not filled with empty philosophy or self-help advice. It was rooted in the reality of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. He called people to recognize their sins, understand God’s sovereign plan, and respond to the truth of salvation. This is the same call that echoes in The Great Commission of Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His disciples to go and make disciples, teaching them to observe all that He commanded. 

Our mission to reach the lost starts with proclaiming Jesus, just as Peter did. The world is filled with people who do not know the truth, many of whom are searching for hope in temporary things that cannot bring satisfaction. Many of us understand this transient pursuit and know the emptiness and hopelessness that comes from it. Yet, we, like Peter, are called to proclaim Christ boldly. Our own experience with Jesus has hopefully transformed us, so we must be centered on His calling on our lives as it pertains to the Gospel (His life, His power, and the victory He secured over sin and death). Reaching the lost requires both truth and love. Peter was very direct in his message, but he was not speaking to condemn; he was speaking to call people to repentance and a new life. When we share the Gospel, we must also do so with compassion, remembering that Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Every person we encounter is someone whom Christ died to redeem. 

Additionally, we must trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to convict hearts. Peter’s words at Pentecost were anointed by the Spirit, and thousands came to faith that day. When we step out in obedience, sharing the Gospel with family, friends, coworkers, and strangers, we can trust that God is working to draw people to Himself. It is not rooted in our eloquent words or our crafty delivery but rather in the genuine convictions of our relationship with Him.  

We, at The River Church, are dedicated to Reach the lost, to Gather together with the Saints, and to Grow in God’s Word. Let me encourage you to be committed to boldly proclaiming the Gospel wherever God places you. It may be in our neighborhoods, workplaces, or across the world. We have been given the same message Peter preached: Jesus Christ, crucified and risen. 

Take a pause today and consider the following questions as we examine the Gospel and our ability to be a part of it with Christ.  

1. When was the last time you shared the Gospel with someone who did not know Christ?  2. Do you struggle with fear or hesitation when it comes to evangelism? How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit for boldness?  3. Who in your life is searching for hope? How can you intentionally share Jesus with them this week? 

If these questions leave you feeling unsure or if you have more questions about sharing your faith, do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to walk alongside you in this journey. You can text “riverchurch” to 97000, and one of our staff members will connect with you. Our goal is to equip and encourage you to confidently share Christ with others. You are not alone in this mission. We are in it together! 

Please join me in a short prayer, thanking God for His amazing gift of salvation. “Father, thank You for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Give us boldness to proclaim the Gospel with clarity and love, just as Peter did. Open the hearts of those who do not know You, and use us as vessels to reach the lost. May we always be faithful and obedient to your commandments in our life, trusting in Your power to save. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”