Everyone loves receiving good news. Whether it’s hearing that we made the football team, the honor roll, got the ACT score, got into the dream college, got on student council, or simply got what was on our birthday wish list. But good news can often get stale for us – over time, we lose the initial wonder, amazement & excitement at the news. The story of the gospel and the life of Christ can unfortunately get stale for us. It is helpful to stop and reflect on the amazing reality of the gospel ever so often.
In this message, we’ll get a reminder of the Good News that should transform and inspire us every day.
Message Outline
1. Good News: The Old Testament isn’t the end of the story
Matthew 4:16-17
The Old Testament and it’s heroes all point to Jesus
Jesus is the better Adam, Moses, Joshua, Judge, He is the one of whom the Prophets foretold, The perfect Priest who would go before God on our behalf, and the perfect King who would lead in righteousness, peace, and full trust in the father
Personal application: Whatever you’re experiencing in life right now isn’t the end of the story
2. Good News: Jesus came to the right place at the right time
Galatians 4:4-5
Right place: a Jew, descended from Abraham, from the tribe of Judah
Right time: The oppression of Israel by Romans, the spiritual climate, the people who were alive, the people who were in charge.
God was purposeful with the timing & place of Jesus’ birth
Personal application: God is purposeful with your life & circumstances
Psalm 103:19
3. Good News: Jesus came to reconcile everyone to God
Your sin was the problem, Jesus’ life was the price, you becoming a child of God was the prize.
Ephesians 2:1-10Personal application: We are always in need of the gospel
Long Story Short: Your sin was the problem, Jesus’ life was the price, you becoming a child of God was the prize.
Discussion Questions
What is some good news that you’ve recently received?
Where in your life right now do you most need the reminder that it isn’t the end of the story?
Where in your life right now do you most need the reminder that God is sovereign over your life and circumstances?
How can you keep the good news of the gospel fresh & exciting in your life?
Who can you share the good news of the gospel with?
The Bible is one cohesive story written over the course of 1500 years, by 40 different authors recording the history of God’s unwavering extension of His love to humans who immediately chose to go their own way when given the choice. The Bible isnt just a history book or a self-help novel. It is a record of God’s love being made known and available to humanity. Long Story Short is an effort to give teenagers a general handle on the expanse of biblical history with a special focus on events & people that are foundational for an accurate Christian worldview. We hope that students walk away from this summer series with a greater hunger to dive into God’s word, learn more about God’s love for them, and live their lives in light of the love they have experienced.
