The word gospel is literally translated good news. It carries with it the idea of a messenger who tells of this news. The gospel is not a what, but rather a who.  The gospel is Jesus himself. It is His very person and work.

1. God the Father created you with dignity, worth, and value for joy and flourishing.
2. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, introduced sin into the world. Ever since we have all fallen short of the perfect plan and standard, He intended.
3. God the Son, Jesus, stepped into time and history to recover and redeem what was lost in the world and in our lives.
4. Jesus substituted Himself for us. In His crucifixion, Jesus transfers to us His sinless life and righteousness. We transfer to Him our sinful life and penalty.  
5. Three days later, He conquered sin, Satan, and death in literal, bodily resurrection. In doing so, He put to rest any speculation about His identity or authority.
6. We are saved and transformed by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus.
7. We now have a new future promised to us as heaven-bound citizens. 
8. Until that day, God the Spirit fills us and helps us with strength and conviction. Similarly, the Bible fills us and helps us with knowledge and wisdom. 
9. The combined authority of Spirit and Scripture enables us to live different lives that honor God, albeit imperfectly. This is the essence and purpose of the local church.