What Is the Gospel? A Bible Answer
The word "gospel" means good news. The Bible doesn't leave us guessing what the news is: Paul summarizes it in two sentences, and it is all about what Christ has done.
What the Bible says
- Scripture
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
1 Corinthians 15:3-4 Paul's summary is the gospel in miniature: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, all "according to the scriptures."
- Scripture
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Romans 1:16 The gospel is God's power for salvation to everyone who believes: it does the saving, not us.
- Scripture
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Mark 1:15 Jesus' own command pairs the gospel with response: repent and believe.
A grounded way to understand this
The gospel is news before it is advice: something done for you, not by you. Its proper response is repentance and faith.
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People also ask
What does 'gospel' mean?
"Gospel" translates a Greek word meaning "good news": the announcement that Christ died for our sins and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
What is the gospel in one sentence?
Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day, so that whoever believes in Him receives eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:3-4; John 3:16).
How do I respond to the gospel?
Jesus said, "repent ye, and believe the gospel" (Mark 1:15): turn from sin and trust in Christ's finished work.
Every answer is grounded in Scripture (KJV) and written to bring clarity, comfort, and truth.