The Gospel in Seven Words

In his autobiography,  Brother to a Dragonfly, Will  Campbell recalls how his friend asked him for a succinct definition of Christianity.  “I’m not too bright, in ten words or less what is the Christian message?”  Campbell responded, “We are all bastards, but God loves us anyway.”  To which East replied, “If you want to try again, you have two words left.”…The gospel in seven words – coming up with your own statement ain’t easy.

This article, ” The Gospel in Seven Words” by David Heim, taken from The Christian Century magazine, was discussed Sunday September 9th;  the kick-off of the fall adult education classes.  The classroom was packed and the conversation lively as many shared their version of “The Gospel in Seven words”.

• Rotting embodiment of mankind reconstituted by grace. – Bergel Z.
• God loves us all, so faith changes you.- Roseanne L.
• God’s gift is eternal life, through Jesus – Jackson M.
• Forgiveness from Faith and my Father’s Family – Susan G.
• Father’s creation done with Love, encompassing all – Betty R.
• Peace and Joy through surrender and Grace – Gail F.
• Hooray, We are all reconciled! – Dave O.
• God loves us; good, bad, and tattooed – Jen M.
• Jesus lived so I am saved – Carol P.
• Jesus gave all for us to be – Scott A.
• God’s loving arms wrapping us in Grace – Karen G.
• How to get to Heaven – Don G.
• God’s good news through his Son’s sacrifice – Nadine M.
• God gives new birth to old sinners – Bob O.
• God’s tenacious grasp keeps us breathing grace – Pastor Eric
• We are all loved children of God – Pastor Beth

Get the article in the church office, and spend a few minutes thinking of what your 7 words would be, and how comfortable you would be sharing them with others.  In its most basic form, this is evangelism.  Simply sharing 7 words with an old or new  friend – and we can all do this – can’t we?

Pastor Eric