Those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus… will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9
Aren’t you glad it says, “obey the gospel” not “obey the law”? There would be no hope for us, because no one lives a perfect life. If salvation comes by obeying the gospel, what does that mean? Obeying the gospel is about three things—repentance, believing, and following.
First, repentance begins when your life is no longer “all about me.” It is about Jesus, who loved you and gave Himself for you. Repentance is a decisive turning away from all that God calls “sin” in order to offer yourself to Christ. How could you ever make a change like that?
Second, believing in the Lord Jesus Christ is how you are changed. This is a real relationship in which you trust that He is the Son of God, you trust in His death for your sins and in the power of His resurrection for your life. You trust Jesus because He is altogether worthy of your trust.
Third, following Jesus, who laid down His life for you, is the proper response to His call. Jesus lays claim to your gifts, talents, time, money, and affections.
Maybe you have been saying, “I’ll think about Jesus later.” Don’t be passive. God is calling you right now to obey the gospel. Your eternity hangs on this.
How would you describe yourself today? 1. I’m trying to obey the law? 2. I’m obeying the gospel? 3. I’m trying to put off thinking about Jesus (being passive)?
