Frequently Asked Questions
65+ Questions and Answers About the Gospel
Romans 10:17 “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”
This guide is created to help new believers and seasoned followers of Christ deepen their understanding of the gospel message— God’s rescue plan. It is the good news of Jesus Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and the promise of salvation.
By answering common questions about the gospel, we aim to enhance your faith journey and enable you to connect more personally with the transformative power of God’s word.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Gospel
What is the Gospel?
The Gospel, which means “news” in the Bible, points to Jesus Christ, His work on the cross, and His resurrection. The good news, or Gospel, of Jesus Christ is life-changing.
Why is it considered good news?
The Gospel is good news because it points people to Jesus Christ and His salvation. When someone accepts His good news, that person becomes a new creation.
What does the Gospel mean in the Bible?
Gospel comes from the Greek word “euangelion,” and it occurs 93 times in the Bible, all in the New Testament. The good news is Jesus Christ and salvation.
What in the Bible is considered the Gospel?
The first four books of the New Testament are Gospels. The synoptic Gospels refer to Matthew, Mark, and Luke because they tell similar stories about Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.
What’s the main message of the Gospel?
The Gospel’s central message is the good news of Jesus Christ—His birth, life, death, and resurrection. The main message also consists of salvation’s message and redemption for humans.
What is an example of the Gospel?
Mark’s Gospel says, “The time has come, he (Jesus) said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the Good News.” Mark 1:15 NIV.
Why is the Gospel so important?
The Gospel is important because it’s the truth. In John 14:6 NIV, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
What does Jesus say about the Gospel?
Mark recorded what Jesus said about the Gospel, “The time has come,’ he said. ‘The Kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news.’”
What’s the difference between the Gospel and the Word of God?
The Word of God refers to the entire Bible, both Old and New Testaments, which can be divided by the Law and the Gospel.
Also, John describes Jesus as the Word in John 1:1, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.”
What is the most essential thing in the Gospel?
As the expert in the law learned from Jesus, the most essential thing in the Gospel is to “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind;’ and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Luke 10:27 NIV.
Jesus validated the expert in the law when he replied in Luke 10:27 NIV, “’ You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. ‘Do this, and you will live.’”
The Authors of the Gospel
Who wrote the Gospel?
The first four books of the New Testament are called Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Matthew, one of Jesus’ disciples, wrote the Gospel of Matthew; John Mark wrote Mark; and Luke, a companion to Paul, wrote the Gospel of Luke.
The Gospel of John was written by Jesus’s disciple named John.
How does the Gospel differ across Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John?
Each Gospel writer wrote from their point of view—they were God-inspired but unique in personalities. According to TirzahMag.com, Matthew focuses on Jesus as the Messiah; Mark emphasizes Christ Jesus’ authority; Luke conveys Jesus’ longer parables; and John stresses Jesus as the Word.
What is the shortest Gospel?
The Gospel of Mark is the shortest in the New Testament.
What are the 3 reasons why we need to know the Gospel?
There are 3 reasons we need to know the Gospel: for salvation, to grow in our faith, and because we still need forgiveness. We need to know about Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection; we need to grow in our faith so we stay on course; and we need reminding that we still sin and need to repent.
Who are the four Gospels in the Bible?
The four Gospels of the Bible are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and the first three are called synoptic Gospels.
The Gospel of John is stylistically different from the other three Gospels because John reminds readers of Genesis 1:1 and writes in contrasts, light/dark, belief/rejection, etc.
Which Gospel is most accurate?
All four Gospels are accurate and historically reliable because they were written by eyewitnesses, such as Matthew and John, near the time they happened. Also, the Gospels were written by people who were Jesus’s disciples or disciples of the apostles.
Why is John different from the other Gospels?
John’s Gospel is stylistically different from the first three Gospels (the synoptic Gospels recount the same events, such as Jesus’ baptism, his early ministry in Galilee, the crucifixion, and Jesus’ resurrection). John’s Gospel also includes other events that the synoptic Gospel writers omitted.
How is Luke different from the other Gospels?
The Gospel of Luke stands out from the other Gospels because it goes earlier in Jesus’s life, with the birth of John the Baptist, beyond the resurrection to include Jesus’ ascension. Luke wrote a sequel, the Book of Acts.
How is Mark different from the other Gospels?
Bible scholars believe that Matthew, Luke, and John used Mark’s Gospel as a template to explain Jesus’s life, crucifixion, and resurrection. Mark is also very fast-paced compared to the other Gospel writers and uses “immediately” 41 times in his Gospel.
Was Mark a disciple or an apostle?
Mark was neither a disciple nor an apostle of Jesus. Instead, Mark was Peter’s disciple.
What is the Gospel?
What does the term “Gospel” mean?
The word Gospel in the Bible can be traced to the word “euangelion.” “Eu” means good or pleasant, and the word “angelos” or “angelion” means message.
What is the Gospel according to Christianity?
The Gospel is the good news of God’s rescue plan for humanity. It’s the good news about what God accomplished through Jesus Christ.
What are the key components of the Gospel message?
The Gospel message is God’s rescue plan for all of humanity. Its key components include that we’re sinners needing forgiveness, Jesus Christ took on the punishment for our sins, and we now have new life in Christ when we receive salvation through faith and repentance.
Why is the Gospel important?
We can’t ever work our way into God’s good graces because we all fall short of God’s glory due to our inherent sinfulness. Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the path to receiving God’s redemption when we accept it in faith.
How does someone respond to the Gospel?
You can be part of God’s rescue plan when you respond to Christ’s invitation through faith.
Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV says, “For by grace you have been saved by faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by your works so that no one can boast.”
Is the Gospel relevant for everyone?
Yes, the Gospel is relevant for everyone since Jesus ascended into heaven. In Romans 3:23-24 NIV, Paul says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Can the Gospel be summarized in a simple way?
The Gospel outlines how Jesus took the punishment for our sins; this unique act not only cancels out our sins but also grants us new life and restores our relationship with God.
The new life found in Christ is a gift through faith and repentance when we turn away from our sins and embrace Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
How does the Gospel impact the lives of believers?
When we hear the Gospel, we are changed from our old life to our new one. In 2 Cor. 5:17 NIV, Paul writes, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old is gone, the new is here!”
What role does faith play in responding to the Gospel?
Faith plays a vital part in the good news. When you respond to the Gospel with faith and repentance, you trust God and embrace Jesus for salvation.
How can I learn more about the Gospel?
You can learn more about the Gospel by reading the first four books of the New Testament in the Bible. Daniel Rice’s book #Gospel: Life, Hope, and Truth for Generation Now is a helpful resource.
The Gospel in Romans
What is the Book of Romans?
The apostle Paul wrote a letter to the community of believers in Rome living under Nero; the letter makes up the Book of Romans. Paul asks the Roman Christians to help him spread the Gospel to the western part of the Roman Empire.
Who wrote Romans in the Bible?
Paul wrote to the Romans with help from a scribe named Tertius.
When was the Book of Romans written?
Paul wrote the Book of Romans in 57 AD from Corinth, a Greek city in the Roman Empire.
What is the central theme of the Book of Romans?
The power of the Gospel is to bring salvation to everyone who believes in Christ.
Romans 1:26-27 NIV sums up the theme when Paul writes, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
“For in the Gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written, ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”
How does the Book of Romans address salvation?
Romans emphasize the Gospel as a gift from God and the power of God for salvation.
Romans 1:16-17 ESV says, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel as the power of God for salvation.”
What are some key verses from the Book of Romans?
Romans compares God’s holiness with our sinfulness; it doesn’t matter where you come from—everyone has sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.
These verses lay out why all of us need the Gospel:
- Romans 1:16
- Romans 2:28-29
- Romans 3:23-24
- Romans 3:28
- Romans 6:23
- Romans 8:1
- Romans 8:28
- Romans 8:34
- Romans 12:1-2
- Romans 13:1-2.
What is the significance of Paul’s teachings on grace in Romans?
Paul used the word “grace” the most in Romans. Paul defines grace in Romans as we don’t earn salvation, but instead, we’re saved because of God’s grace (which means unmerited favor).
How does Romans address the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God’s Plan?
Through salvation, both Jews and Gentiles can now become part of God’s family. Paul explains that salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ, regardless of their background.
What role does faith play in the Book of Romans?
Paul says that salvation comes from faith in Jesus, making it the central message to the Romans. Paul also stated that people can’t work their way to heaven; it all relies on faith and God’s grace.
How does the Book of Romans encourage believers daily?
Romans encourages and advises believers to live transformed lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. Gospel believers must obey God, love one another, and persevere through trials.
The Roman Road’s Part in Spreading the Gospel
Why were Roman roads an essential part of spreading the Gospel?
Roman roads allowed safe travel throughout the Roman Empire. Because of the roads, Paul’s letters and other parts of the Bible spread.
What is the Roman Road?
The Roman Road in Romans explains the way of salvation using critical verses from Romans. The Roman Road is a simple and easy way to witness to non-believers.
What verses make up the Roman Road?
Here are the Roman Road key verses found in Romans:
What is the Roman’s Road prayer, also known as the sinner’s prayer?
God, I know that I’ve sinned against you and deserve punishment. Thank you for Jesus taking away my sins when he died on the Cross and rose three days later so I can be forgiven. I trust you for my salvation. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness. Amen.
Why is it called the Roman Road?
You won’t find the term “Roman Road” in the Bible, but it’s the name given to passages in Romans that clearly show how we have sinned against God, how we need His forgiveness, and how Christ provides that forgiveness through His sacrifice on the Cross.
What is the purpose of the Roman Road?
The Roman Road provides a simple explanation throughout Romans of God’s grace through Jesus’ death on the Cross and His resurrection. The Roman Road also describes how someone can be saved through grace.
How can the Roman Road be used in evangelism?
The Roman Road provides a roadmap of salvation that starts with our sinfulness and deserves death. Paul goes on to write the way of salvation through Christ and God’s abundant grace.
What role do the verses of the Roman Road play in understanding salvation?
The Roman Road verses clearly connect our sinfulness to our need for atonement. We can’t work our way into God’s grace. Instead, we need Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross as the road to salvation.
The Gospel in Evangelism and Discipleship
What does it mean to “spread the Gospel?”
Spreading the Gospel, or sharing the Good News, means telling others about salvation through Jesus Christ.
Why is spreading the Gospel important?
Jesus commanded his followers to spread the Gospel in Matthew 28:19 NLT, “Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
How can I spread the Gospel effectively?
Use the following tips to spread the Gospel in your corner of the world effectively:
Know who you’re talking to and avoid using Christian slang.
- Build bridges by connecting with the people you’re talking to about the Gospel.
- Focus on listening that includes compassion and love for the person you’re talking with about the Gospel.
- Jesus used parables to spread the Gospel; use your testimony and the parables in the Bible.
- Be compassionate and understanding when someone asks tough questions.
- Interweave your faith naturally into the conversation; don’t force the Gospel message.
- State your purpose for this conversation and provide practical steps for a response.
- Trust God to work in the unbelievers’ lives, so they see the Gospel’s truth.
Is spreading the Gospel only for pastors and missionaries?
No, Jesus clearly states in the Gospels that all His followers must preach the Good News.
How can I overcome fear or hesitation when sharing the Gospel?
Prayer should be a regular practice when sharing the Gospel (as well as other parts of your Christian journey). Ask God for boldness, to bring people to you who need to hear the Good News, and rest on the Holy Spirit’s guidance of what to say next.
Are there different methods or approaches to spreading the Gospel?
Yes, there are many ways to share the Gospel; remember that Jesus formed relationships with the people he ministered to during his earthly ministry. Being in a relationship with others will help them see the importance of the Gospel.
How can I share the Gospel with people from different cultural backgrounds or belief systems?
Remember Paul’s words about being kind and compassionate when sharing the Gospel. Also, respect the person’s culture when sharing the Good News in Jesus.
What role does prayer play in spreading the Gospel?
Prayer is tapping into God’s power (see Romans). Pray for wisdom, courage, love, compassion, and for the person you’re witnessing to—that their hearts will be softened to hear the Gospel.
How can I continue to grow in spreading the Gospel?
You can grow in spreading the Gospel by reading your Bible, learning more about the Bible, and getting involved in witnessing workshops.
Also, ensure a regular time for prayer, asking God to bring people to you who need to hear the Gospel message.
Bible Verses About Sharing the Gospel
What are some key Bible verses about sharing the Gospel?
In Matthew 28:19-20 NIV, Jesus commanded his disciples “to go out to all nations and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you to the very end of the age.”
- Here are other important Bible verses about sharing the Gospel:
- Mark 16:15
- Acts 1:8
- Romans 10:14-15
- 1 Peter 3:15.
What resources are available to help me spread the Gospel?
We live in a time where plenty of resources exist to help spread the Gospel. Here are some ways to help you:
- Learn how to witness
- Grow in your knowledge of the Bible
- Take Bible courses at a Bible college
- Listen to podcasts
- Read evangelicalism books, such as #Gospel
- Study a book of the Bible using online study tools
- Join a small group to continue to grow
- Go on a short mission trip.
Gospel in Practice
How do I live out the Gospel?
You can live out the Gospel in every area of your life, including repenting when treating others poorly. Forgiveness is another way to live out the Gospel; Paul talks about forgiveness in Ephesians 4:32 NLT, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
How do I tell someone about how the Gospel changed my life?
You first need to understand the Gospel message, starting with Romans 6:23 ESV, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Here are 6 tips for sharing the Gospel with unbelievers:
- Know your audience and avoid Christian jargon.
- Build authentic relationships by getting to know someone who hasn’t heard of the Gospel.
- Listen first, show genuine empathy, and employ active listening.
- Use your testimony, other believers’ testimonies, and the testimonies in the Bible to show, rather than tell, about the Gospel.
- When someone poses challenging questions, listen with compassion and understanding.
- Always pray that the Spirit guides you when discussing the Gospel with an unbeliever. Ask thoughtful questions so the person you’re talking with can share their opinions and foster organic faith conversations.
How does the Gospel drive charity?
The Gospel drives charity, also known as love, kindness, and compassion, because God first loved us, as John wrote in 1 John 4:19 NLT, “We love each other because he first loved us.”
We show charity when we help those who are poor, homeless, without food and clean water, refugees, and those in prison, as Jesus explained in Matthew 25: 31-46.
How does the Gospel drive justice?
In his article, Justice in the Bible, Tim Keller points out three areas of justice: the God of justice, the facets of justice (including generosity, equality, advocacy, and responsibility), and working for justice.
The Old Testament shows how God used justice to help the poor, widows, and orphans, and Jesus emphasized justice in the parables of the sheep and the goats, as well as the Good Samaritan.
How do I apply the Gospel in my daily life?
Jack Miller coined the term “Preach the Gospel to yourself.”
In other words, use the following six practices to apply the Gospel to your daily life:
- Read the Bible daily; use bible study tools to help you grow in your understanding.
- Join a community of believers who preach the Bible and believe in the Gospel.
- Sing theologically sound praise songs.
- Memorize Scripture to remind you of Gospel living.
- Read books that help you grow in your faith.
- Follow Gospel-centered preachers and teachers.
How does the Gospel change lives?
Through the Holy Spirit, discipleship, and Gospel messages, hearts soften, and identities start to change so that one can live out the Gospel. Discipleship helps new believers grasp the truth of the scriptures and spread the Good News.
What role does prayer play in my life?
Prayer helps you learn to trust God. Prayer also changes real-world issues, called trials in the Bible.
How does the Gospel work in my life today?
The eternal relevance of the Gospel was foreshadowed in the Old Testament and is anchored in the New Testament. The Gospel works in your life and is part of your spreading the Gospel by shining light in a dark world, inspiring hope amid uncertainty, encouraging community, and helping others find purpose in their lives.
How do I become more like Jesus?
There isn’t one Scripture that talks about becoming more like Christ. Instead, the following three verses encapsulate how we’re supposed to mature in our Christlikeness:
How can I become more compassionate and loving as a Christian?
You can learn more about how God wants your heart to change to become more compassionate and loving. Start by praying that the Spirit helps you develop spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22) and by reading the Word, starting with these verses:
Further Resources and Next Steps
As you continue to explore the gospel, there are plenty of resources to guide you along the way. Starting with the Gospels in the New Testament is a significant first step. If you want a more guided experience, why not sign up for our FREE 14-Day Devotional Series? Each day, you’ll get personal reflections and insights to help you connect more deeply with Jesus and His message.
For further assistance and answers about God’s rescue plan, delve into # Gospel’s various resources. We offer a specially designed book perfect for discussion leaders and anyone eager to understand the gospel. This resource is created to help you lead meaningful discussions, develop connections, and experience transformation. It brings Paul’s teachings in Romans to life with engaging language and relatable storytelling, making the gospel’s powerful message more accessible and applicable in everyday life.
You can also access additional resources via our study guide, blog, video devotional series, and Youtube channel.
